Israeli passport holders are no longer permitted to enter the Maldives. Israel's actions in the ongoing crisis in Gaza have influenced the decision.

The revision to the nation's immigration law was agreed by parliament on Tuesday and subsequently confirmed by President Mohamed Muizzu.

The new clause explicitly forbids entry into the Maldives by those holding Israeli passports.

The government's fierce opposition to Israel

The Maldivian government defended its decision by stating that it takes a strong stand against what it perceives to be Israel's ongoing genocide against the Palestinian people. 

According to an official statement from President Muizzu's office, "The ratification reflects the government's firm stance in response to the continuing atrocities and ongoing acts of genocide committed by Israel against the Palestinian people."

This is not the first time the Maldives have stood against Israel. Earlier in June 2024, President Muizzu requested a travel ban for Israeli passport holders in response to a cabinet suggestion. Israel's foreign ministry then advised its people to avoid visiting the Maldives.

Israel's response to genocide charges

Israel has always denied claims of genocide, citing its right to self-defence under international law.
The most recent conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a cross-border offensive from Gaza.

The Israeli foreign ministry and consular office in Colombo have not responded to demands for comment on the Maldives' ban. Tourism is vital to the Maldivian economy, accounting for around 21% of its GDP. Tourism generated $5.6 billion in revenue for the island nation in 2024. The Associated Press reported that 59 Israelis visited the Maldives in February 2025.

Despite persistent global uncertainty caused by a variety of factors, the Maldives is forecast to generate approximately $5 billion in tourism revenue this year.

At the United Nations' International Court of Justice, Israel has frequently disagreed with allegations of genocide levelled by organisations such as Amnesty International and the South African government.