Mohamed Muizzu
Maldives is one of the most expensive countries in the world for tourists. Indians visit there in large numbers. But the government is now going to take a step that may surprise people who are thinking of going to the Maldives. In fact, the government is going to increase departure fees. It can be implemented from December 1.
How much tax will be charged?
According to a report, people departing from the Maldives will have to pay more depending on the class of the flight. For example, those traveling in economy class will have to pay $50. Before it was 30 dollars. At the same time, those traveling in business class will have to pay $120. Before it cost 60 dollars. At the same time, those traveling in first class will have to pay $240, compared to $90 before. People leaving by private jet will have to pay $480. Before it cost 120 dollars.
This tax will apply to non-Maldives. It doesn’t matter what your age is. Not only this, the distance will not be seen in it either. People coming from London will be charged the same tax as people coming from Delhi. The Maldives Inland Revenue Authority announced a tax increase in November to generate revenue for the maintenance of the country’s Velana International Airport.
Some tourists may not even be aware of the new charges. These charges are added to the price of the airline tickets. Additionally, a new business class airline flying to the Maldives advised its customers to purchase their tickets before November 30 to avoid the new tax.
Maldives suffered losses due to the anger of the Indians.
Prime Minister Modi had visited Lakshadweep earlier this year. A photo related to that was shared on social media. The Prime Minister had appealed to the people to visit Lakshadweep. Maldeep did not like this statement of the Prime Minister and many leaders also gave controversial statements.
After the Maldivian leaders’ statement, Indians started boycotting it. Relations between the two countries had also deteriorated. Maldives was shocked by the Indian boycott. During this period, the number of Indians going to Maldives decreased and the number of people reaching Lakshadweep increased.
Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia emerged as possible alternatives to the Maldives. The additional beaches and travel options in these countries were increasing the pressure on the Maldives. The President of Maldives, Mohammad Muizzu, understood that enmity with India would only lead to losses, so he began to increase friendship.
The Maldives is made up of approximately 1,200 islands and coral atolls. The population there is approximately 520,000 inhabitants. Maldives depends on India for most things.
