Overview

• The Maldives has officially barred Israeli passport holders from entering the country, citing solidarity with Palestinians and condemning alleged atrocities in Gaza.
• President Mohamed Muizzu signed the legislative amendment into law after its approval by the Maldives Parliament, marking a significant political move.
• The ban specifically targets Israeli passport holders but allows dual nationals to enter using non-Israeli travel documents, avoiding unintentional exclusion of Palestinians.
• Israeli tourism to the Maldives has seen a sharp decline, with only 80 Israeli visitors recorded in March 2025 compared to 1,269 in March 2023.
• Israel’s Foreign Ministry has advised its citizens to avoid travel to the Maldives due to the ban and limited consular support in the region.