What Not to Bring to the Maldives: Tourist Restrictions and Strict Entry Rules

The Maldives may be a dream destination for luxury travelers and celebrities, but visiting this tropical paradise comes with strict rules. While the islands boast world-class resorts and stunning beaches, tourists must follow tight regulations on what can and cannot be brought into the country. The Maldives is a Muslim-majority nation, and many of these restrictions are rooted in religious and cultural norms. Entry and exit procedures are carefully enforced, and breaking the law—even unintentionally—can lead to serious consequences, including imprisonment.

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Vape Ban in the Maldives: What Tourists Need to Know in 2025

Travelers who vape should take note: as of November 2024, the Maldives has officially banned the import, sale, and possession of all vaping devices and accessories. This includes not just e-cigarettes, but also any components used for assembling or maintaining them. The ban applies equally to residents and tourists, with no exceptions.

What Happens if You Bring a Vape to the Maldives?

If you arrive with a vape, you won’t be fined or denied entry. However, the device will be confiscated by customs, and you’ll receive a receipt. Before departing the country, you can retrieve your vape at the airport—but you’ll have to pay a storage fee. Be aware that trying to bring in new, boxed devices for resale can result in a fine of around €2,000.

Attempting to sneak in a vape might seem like a workaround, but it isn’t worth the risk. If caught using an e-cigarette during your stay, you could face a fine of €308. Authorities have introduced the ban due to concerns about the rising popularity of vaping among local youth and its potential health risks.

Globally, vaping is now banned in over 30 countries, including Brazil, India, Iran, and Thailand. The Maldives has joined this list, which may influence some travelers—especially regular vapers—to consider destinations with more lenient regulations.

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Are Cigarettes Allowed in the Maldives?

Traditional tobacco products are still permitted, but with limits. Tourists over 18 are allowed to bring:

• Up to 200 cigarettes (one carton)
• 25 cigars
• Or up to 250 grams of tobacco products

Any amount beyond these limits will be confiscated upon arrival. Like with vapes, confiscated tobacco can be reclaimed at the airport when leaving—but note that the maximum storage period is 30 days.

You can check the current information at the time of arrival on the Maldives Customs website .

Tip: Remember that many resorts and public places only allow smoking in designated areas. Violating this rule may result in a fine.

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Alcohol in the Maldives: Strictly Prohibited

Thinking of buying a bottle at duty-free? Don’t waste your money. Importing alcohol into the Maldives is completely banned—even if it’s unopened and purchased legally at a duty-free shop. All alcoholic beverages will be confiscated at customs and stored until your departure. You'll receive a receipt and can collect your items by paying a storage fee before flying out.

Some travelers attempt to smuggle alcohol disguised as cosmetic products or soft drinks, but Maldivian customs officers are highly experienced and conduct thorough inspections. If alcohol is found hidden in luggage, it will be confiscated permanently without the option for storage.

Legal Alternatives for Alcohol:

• Stay at an all-inclusive resort, where alcohol is legally served in hotel bars and restaurants under a special license.
• On local islands, alcohol is not available, but non-alcoholic beer may be found.
• Some resorts operate boat bars, where guests can legally consume alcohol offshore.

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Adult Content: Completely Banned

Maldives enforces strict morality laws, and importing any material that could be interpreted as sexually explicit is prohibited. This includes:

• Erotic books or magazines
• Adult videos or DVDs
• Sex toys or related products

Even items considered mild or artistic in other countries may be treated as pornographic under Maldivian law. Customs officers are vigilant and will confiscate such materials.

Medication Rules for the Maldives

Tourists can bring prescription medication, but the following conditions must be met:

• Carry a doctor’s prescription that clearly states your name, the medication, and dosage.
• Bring only the amount required for the duration of your stay.

Without proper documentation, even commonly used medicines could be questioned or confiscated.

Photography and Diving Equipment

Bringing professional equipment? It’s recommended to:

• Notify your resort in advance if you’re carrying substantial gear.
• Provide a detailed inventory, including serial numbers.

This step helps avoid complications or delays at customs, especially for photographers or divers with expensive equipment.

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Other Items Prohibited in the Maldives

Below is a list of additional items that cannot be brought into the Maldives without specific permission—or at all:

• Religious literature (non-Islamic, including Bibles) may be confiscated.
• Pork and pork products are banned due to religious dietary laws.
• Dogs and pigs are considered unclean and are not allowed. Cats and other non-dangerous animals may be brought in with proper veterinary documents.

• Narcotics and psychotropic substances are strictly illegal.
• Firearms, explosives, and ammunition, including imitations and components, require official permits.
• Spearguns, harpoons, and stun guns also fall under restricted weaponry.
• Fireworks and flares require permits and are often denied.

• Toxic chemicals, acids, and poisons need approval.
• Radio transmitters or telecom equipment with power over 100 milliwatts cannot be imported without a permit.

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What You Can't Take from the Maldives: Export Restrictions for Tourists

Before leaving the Maldives, it's important to know that certain items are strictly prohibited from export, even if they seem like harmless souvenirs. Violating these rules can result in fines or confiscation at the airport—so it's best to plan ahead and respect local laws.

Corals, Shells, and Marine Souvenirs: Leave Nature Behind

While it's tempting to take home a piece of the Maldives’ vibrant underwater world, exporting corals, shells, and other marine life is strictly prohibited. This includes:

• Corals (raw or processed)
• Turtle shells
• Pearl oyster shells
• Any coral-based souvenirs without a proper receipt

Even items casually collected during a beach walk or snorkeling trip are not allowed to leave the country. Buying these items from street vendors or beach sellers can also lead to trouble, as both trading and collecting protected marine items are illegal.

What’s allowed?
You can purchase approved souvenirs from official shops at your resort, on local islands, or at the airport. These items are legally produced and safe to take home—just make sure to ask for a receipt and verify that the shop is legitimate.

Maldivian Currency: Not a Take-Home Souvenir

While some travelers like to keep a few Maldivian rufiyaa as a memento, officially, exporting the local currency is prohibited. While airport officials may overlook small amounts, it's safer to exchange any leftover money back into foreign currency before departure.

Tip: Keep your original currency exchange receipt—you’ll need it to convert your rufiyaa back into USD or another currency easily and without issue.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy the Maldives, Respect the Rules

Understanding and respecting the Maldives’ import and export regulations ensures a smooth and stress-free vacation. While the country enforces strict laws to protect its culture, religion, and natural environment, these small restrictions are a small price to pay for experiencing one of the most beautiful destinations on Earth.

By following the rules, you’ll avoid trouble—and leave with only incredible memories of the Maldives' crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and luxurious hospitality.

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