The Special Cabinet Committee, formed in response to Middle East tensions, has announced that several airlines have resumed flights to the Maldives following suspensions linked to the regional situation. This was confirmed at a press briefing at the President's Office today.
Speaking at the briefing, the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen, noted that Emirates, Etihad, and FlyDubai are currently operating two daily flights through Middle Eastern corridors, with Qatar Airways scheduled to commence a daily flight service from 1 April. The Minister highlighted that passenger booking loads have shown an upward trend compared to the initial stages of the ongoing situation. The Committee also noted that it is actively identifying and facilitating new travel routes to support trade and other essential requirements.
Outlining measures related to the tourism sector, the Minister of Tourism and Environment, Thoriq Ibrahim, announced that the simplified tourist visa extension service will be launched in April. As part of ongoing efforts to diversify the tourism industry, preparations are under way to introduce TecRec diving by the end of April, with spear fishing also set to be introduced. The Minister further emphasised that the Government is consulting with industry stakeholders to resolve challenges and boost tourism promotion efforts.
The Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, spoke on the priority given to ensuring the uninterrupted supply of staples, essential commodities, fuel, and cooking gas. He highlighted the strategic advantages the Maldives holds during such periods due to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China and the established trade relationship with India. The Minister added that the Government is closely monitoring challenges faced by various industries, specifically the construction sector, and is working in collaboration with the Maldives Association of Construction Industry (MACI) to address these issues.
The Special Cabinet Committee further urged journalists to exercise caution and responsibility when reporting on sensitive matters related to foreign policy, national defence, and the economy during this critical period.
The press briefing was attended by the Committee Chair and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Abdulla Khaleel; Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed; Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation, Mohamed Ameen; Minister of Tourism and Environment, Thoriq Ibrahim; and Minister of Higher Education, Labour and Skills Development, Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed.