The Maldivian government is exploring new visa initiatives and alternative travel routes as part of efforts to counter a decline in tourist arrivals linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East and Gulf region.

Speaking at a press conference held the Special Cabinet Committee formed to address the issue, Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim said the situation has significantly impacted visitor numbers.

He noted that around 30 percent of tourists travel to the Maldives via Middle Eastern airlines, making the sector vulnerable to regional disruptions.

To address this, the government is actively working with international airline operators and tourism stakeholders to expand alternative travel routes and ensure continued accessibility to the island nation.

In addition to improving connectivity, the minister highlighted plans to enhance visa policies.

Authorities are currently reviewing ways to allow tourists to extend their stays beyond the standard on-arrival visa period, in response to growing demand from visitors wishing to spend more time in the Maldives.

He emphasized that longer stays would translate into greater economic benefits for the tourism sector.

As part of these efforts, the government is also developing special visa categories tailored for remote workers and content creators.

These initiatives aim to attract a new segment of travelers while simultaneously supporting local guesthouse operators and boosting occupancy rates across the tourism industry.