Male’, Maldives – Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 tests outside of Male’ at Safari vessels and resorts previously costing USD 100 for tourists has now been lowered to USD 95.
Entering the Maldives currently requires a Negative COVID-19 PCR test not exceeding 96 hours for most countries. All tourists will also undergo non-intrusive temperature checks and screening on arrival to the Maldives. Tourists with Covid-19 like symptoms, such as a temperature above 38 degrees Celsius, coughing or sneezing, will be tested for the virus.
The National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM) has arranged easy testing through the Health Protection Agency (HPA) approved RMML Lab Service, and noted that the price of the test remains unchanged in Male’ at USD 75, these tests are available at the jettys of Male’, Hulhule’ and Velana International Airport.
However, the tests administered in guesthouses of atolls and safaris were previously charged USD 100, which has now been reduced to USD 95.
NBAM said that samples are currently being collected at Kaafu Atoll and Alifu Dhaalu Atoll and that results are being provided within 24 hours.
A hospital in Male’, ADK has also recently lowered PCR test with prices going down from MVR 1500 for locals USD 110 dollars for tourists being lowered to MVR 1200 for locals and expats and 80 dollars for tourists.
With Covid-19 outbreaks worldwide and tourism numbers increasing substantially and projected to increase even more in the upcoming holiday season, these tests will be vital for the safety of tourists and tourism sector employees.
