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Maldives imposes travel ban from seven African countries over Omicron variant

Maldives will bar entry to most travellers from seven southern African countries starting on Sunday, after a potentially more-contagious new coronavirus variant was identified in South Africa, the country’s Health Protection Agency (HPA) announced Saturday.
The restrictions apply to South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini and Mozambique.
Foreigners who have been in those countries within the prior 14 days, including those that have had a transit of over 12 hours in one of the seven countries, will not be allowed into the island nation.
Maldivians and work permit holders travelling from those countries must quarantine for 14 days.
Travellers who are already on their way to the Maldives from the seven countries will need to do a PCR test right away, do another PCR test on the 14th day of their stay in the country if their stay exceeds two weeks. Those with shorter stay periods are also required to undergo testing before their departure from the Maldives.
Countries around the world rushed to suspend travel from southern Africa after the World Health Organization said Omicron was “of concern.” Many of those bans kick in immediately, like the one announced by the Maldives.
Maldives reopened its borders to tourists of all nationalities on July 15, 2020, with rigorous procedures in place to ensure the safety of tourists and tourism workers.
Tourists are required to fill an online health declaration form within 24 hours prior to their departure, as well as have a negative PCR test result, conducted 96 hours prior to their departure.
In order to strengthen the measures, the administration of the Covid-19 vaccine was initiated on February 1 with the government of Maldives set to provide free Covid-19 vaccines to all citizens and residents of the country in the upcoming months.
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Conrad Maldives Rangali Island achieves PADI Eco Center Certification

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has been officially certified as a PADI Eco Center, becoming one of only two resorts in the Maldives to receive this recognition in 2025. The certification is awarded to dive resorts that extend their efforts beyond standard operations, with a strong focus on protecting marine environments and raising awareness among future generations.
As part of the certification process, the resort’s team adopted the Conrad House Reef through PADI’s Adopt the Blue programme. A Dive Against Debris clean-up dive was conducted around the reef near Ithaa Undersea Restaurant, during which 10 kilograms of marine litter, primarily plastics and metal fragments, were collected.
The team also joined Green Fins in June 2025 and has since introduced a series of sustainable practices. These include paperless dive check-ins, eco-briefings before excursions, reduced use of plastics through the introduction of glass alternatives, and signage encouraging responsible snorkelling and diving across the dive centre.
Guests are also directly engaged in conservation activities through coral restoration initiatives. In 2025, the team has facilitated 17 coral line adoptions, where participants attend an educational session before attaching coral fragments to nursery lines and assisting with their placement underwater.
Jessica Miller, Marine Biologist at Conrad Maldives, commented: “This certification represents a milestone for us. It’s the result of dedicated teamwork and genuine care for the ocean. Watching our guests become part of the solution, whether through coral planting or learning about local marine life, is what makes this so special.”
Nick Flynn, General Manager of Conrad Maldives, added: “We’re incredibly proud of the team’s achievement in making Conrad Maldives a certified PADI Eco Center. This milestone is part of our long-term commitment to sustainability and a testament to how luxury and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand.”
Ranjit Batra, Chief Executive Officer of Ventive Hospitality, the owning company of Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, highlighted the wider significance of the achievement. He said: “The PADI Eco Center recognition for Conrad Maldives Rangali Island underscores our commitment to protecting marine ecosystems while shaping the future of responsible travel. We are proud of Conrad for leading the way in sustainability across the Maldives.”
The certification strengthens Conrad Maldives’ broader sustainability objectives under Hilton’s Travel With Purpose programme. The resort will continue to offer educational dives, coral adoption opportunities, and conservation briefings, encouraging guests to actively participate in marine protection efforts during their stay.
Conrad Maldives Rangali Island operates under Hilton and is part of Hilton Honors®, the global guest loyalty programme. Hilton Honors members booking directly through official Hilton channels receive a range of benefits, including exclusive discounts, free standard Wi-Fi, flexible payment options combining Points and money, and contactless technology via the Hilton Honors mobile app, which enables digital check-in, room selection, and access.
Featured
Angsana Velavaru recognised as Best Water Villa Resort at TTM Awards 2025

Angsana Velavaru has been named Best Water Villa Resort at the TTM Awards & Gala 2025, presented by Travel Trade Maldives, the country’s leading travel trade platform.
The award acknowledges the resort’s InOcean Pool Villas, the Maldives’ first standalone water villas located one kilometre from the main island. These villas have become a signature feature of Angsana Velavaru, designed to accommodate both couples and families, with private pools, direct access to the ocean, and spacious interiors.
Beyond the architectural concept, the villas are intended to provide guests with a personal and adventurous connection to the surrounding sea. The resort also offers a wide range of experiences through its ‘101 Things to Do’ programme, which includes marine exploration, wellness activities, and culinary experiences. Cultural engagement is a central element, with opportunities for guests to interact with local island communities and traditions. The resort further integrates sustainability through its ‘Stay for Good’ initiatives, which combine environmental care with community involvement.
Commenting on the award, General Manager Ahmed Zahir said: “We are truly honoured to receive this award from the TTM Awards, a platform that embodies the spirit of the Maldivian travel community. This accolade not only celebrates the uniqueness of our InOcean Pool Villas but also pays tribute to the dedication of our team, who work tirelessly to create moments of discovery, connection and meaning for our guests. At Angsana Velavaru, we believe a stay should be more than a holiday—it should become a journey that remains with our guests long after they return home.”
Angsana Velavaru continues to position itself as a destination offering immersive experiences. Guests are invited to explore coral reefs, engage in island life, and create enduring memories in harmony with the natural environment.
Featured
Barceló Nasandhura Malé named Best City Hotel at TTM Awards 2025

Barceló Nasandhura Malé has been awarded Best City Hotel at the TTM Awards 2025, held on 28 August at Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi.
The recognition reflects the passion, hard work, and dedication of the team at Barceló Nasandhura, whose commitment to excellence has been evident since the property opened earlier this year. The hotel has focused on creating memorable guest experiences and setting new standards for city hospitality, which contributed to this achievement.
The TTM Awards, part of the Maldives’ largest travel trade show, celebrates the country’s hospitality sector across 28 categories, bringing together leading travel and tourism professionals from the region.
As it marks this milestone, Barceló Hotel Group reaffirmed its dedication to shaping the future of city hospitality in Malé.
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