If you search online, you’ll find 10 different answers for the same question —
“What are the Maldives travel requirements?”

Dubai travelers often feel confused because:

Some websites share outdated PCR rules
Others mix up visa details
The biggest confusion is about transfers — seaplane, speedboat, or domestic flight

This checklist removes all guesswork so you can plan your Maldives trip with full confidence.

If you get these simple things right, Maldives travel becomes one of the easiest beach trips from Dubai.

Your Quick, One-Look Maldives Checklist (Dubai Travelers Only)

Passport valid for 6+ months
Return flight booking
Resort confirmation
Transfer info (seaplane / speedboat / domestic flight)
Kids’ documents (if applicable)
Travel insurance
International payment card

This is the foundation. Now let’s break down each part clearly.

Visa & Entry Rules for UAE Residents (Super Simple)

Here’s the easiest part of your Maldives travel requirements:
- Visa on arrival – 30 days, free
- No pre-application required
- Passport must be valid 6 months from date of travel
- Return or onward ticket needed
- You must show resort/hotel booking confirmation
- No sponsor, no hidden paperwork
Important Note:
If you’re a Dubai expat, visa rules depend on your nationality, not your UAE residency visa.

PCR, Vaccination & Health Rules (Updated & Simple)

Currently (based on latest travel updates):
- No PCR test required for Dubai travelers
- No vaccination certificate required
- No quarantine for tourists unless symptomatic
- Kids follow the same rules as adults
Rule changes are rare now, but it’s always good to check before travel.

The Most Confusing Part: Seaplane vs Speedboat vs Domestic Flight

1. Speedboat Transfer (Most Common for Dubai Travelers)

Travel time: 10–60 minutes
Available day & night
Lower cost
Best for: Short trips, families, tired travelers, night arrivals

2. Seaplane Transfer

Operates only during daytime (approx. 6am–4pm)
More expensive
Very scenic
Best for: Luxury resorts, far islands, honeymooners

3. Domestic Flight + Speedboat Combo

Works for late-night arrivals
Longer travel time
Usually cheaper than a seaplane
Best for: Resorts on far southern/northern atolls

Transfer Comparison Table

Need help choosing a resort based on transfer type?

Holiday Offerz will shortlist the best options for your budget and travel timing.

Arrival Guide: What Happens From Landing to Reaching Your Resort

Land at Velana International Airport (MLE)
Go through immigration
Collect your bags
Walk out into the arrival hall
Resort staff meet you at their counter
They guide you to speedboat/seaplane/domestic check-in
Wait time depends on transfer type
Reach your resort and complete check-in

The process is smooth and tourist-friendly.

Documents You Must Carry (Physical + Digital)

Physical Documents

Passport (6+ months validity)
Return flight details
Resort confirmation
Transfer confirmation
Travel insurance papers (optional but recommended)
Kids’ passports / birth certificates (if needed)

Digital Copies

Email booking confirmations
Screenshots of all reservations
Online payment confirmations
Resort contact details

Money Checklist: What Dubai Travelers Should Know

Maldives prefers USD for cash transactions
Resorts accept international cards everywhere
Only small shops on local islands use MVR
Tipping is appreciated: USD 2–5 for staff
Keep some small USD notes for porters and boat staff

Packing List for Maldives (Dubai-Friendly Edition)

Clothes

Swimwear (2–3 sets)
Lightweight shirts & shorts
Dinner outfits (resorts are casual)
Sand-friendly slippers or barefoot walking

Essentials

Strong sunblock
Sunglasses
Waterproof phone pouch
Snorkeling gear (optional)
Mini first-aid kit

If Traveling with Kids

Floaties
Rashguards
Snacks
Child-safe sunscreen
Basic medicines

Transfer Timing Mistakes Dubai Travelers Make (And How to Avoid Them)

Booking late-night arrival flights for seaplane resorts
Not checking baggage limits for seaplanes (they are strict)
Choosing far islands for a 3–4 day trip
Not aligning flight timing with transfer slots
Forgetting that seaplanes do not operate at night

Quick Fix:
Ask the resort or Holiday Offerz before booking flights.

Weather & Season Checklist (Best Time to Visit Without Surprises)

- Best weather: December to April
- Best deals: May, June, September
- Rainy months: July–August (still okay)
- Clear water months (great for snorkeling): January–April
- Dolphin spotting best months: November–March
Weather in the Maldives changes quickly, but it rarely ruins trips.

Final Pre-Booking Checklist (Simple & Clear)

Visa-on-arrival confirmed ✔️
Resort selected ✔️
Transfer type understood ✔️
Flight timing aligned ✔️
Documents ready ✔️
Kids’ needs sorted ✔️
No PCR confusion ✔️
Weather checked ✔️

If this list is clear, you’re ready to book.

Final Take: Once You Have This Checklist, You’re Fully Ready to Book

Maldives travel looks confusing from far, but once everything is grouped in one checklist, it becomes very easy.

The Maldives is one of the smoothest and most hassle-free trips for Dubai travellers — whether you’re going for 3 days or a full week.

Holiday Offerz can help you finalize your resort, plan transfers, and answer anything else before booking.

Want a resort suggestion based on your dates and budget?

Get your Maldives plan from Holiday Offerz within minutes.

Plan Your Maldives Trip with Holiday Offerz

Download your One-Page Maldives Travel Checklist (PDF) and get complete assistance for:

Resort matching
Transfers
Weather guidance
Activity planning

Download My Maldives Travel Checklist (PDF)