In the next legislative session, the Maldivian administration is expected to propose changes to the Maldives airport, with the Departure Tax Act and the Airport Development Fee Act seeing the changes.
Travellers’ departure costs will be significantly altered by the proposed modifications to the Airport Departure Tax Act. The departure tax and Maldives airport development charge for Maldivian economy class passengers will stay at $12 and $50, respectively, while the price for international tourists travelling in economy class would increase from $30 to $50.
The following fee hikes will apply to customers flying in business class, first class, and private jets, including those who are Maldivian nationals:
- Business class travellers’ rates would climb from $60 to $120
- First-class passengers’ costs will rise from $90 to $240
- The cost of private jet travel will increase significantly for all passengers, going from $120 to $480
The Ministry of Finance projects an increase in income of MVR 1.6 billion when the adjustments go into effect in December 2024. The goal of the proposed departure tax hike is to strengthen the nation’s financial condition by increasing its reserves. The Sovereign Development Fund will receive the additional funds from the airport development charge at the same time.
