Maldives Vape & Tobacco Ban: What Travelers Need to Know

The Maldives has implemented a groundbreaking “generational” tobacco ban and continues to enforce strict regulations against e-cigarettes (vapes), measures that apply to both residents and international tourists visiting the popular Indian Ocean archipelago. Travelers heading to the luxury resorts and coral islands should be aware of these rules to avoid fines and confiscation of prohibited items.

Generational Tobacco Ban for Young People

Effective November 1st, a new law has come into force that prohibits the sale of tobacco products to anyone born on or after January 1, 2007. This makes the Maldives the only country with a tobacco ban that spans generations, aiming to create a “tobacco-free generation.” The Maldivian Ministry of Health described the measure as a “historic milestone” in protecting public health.

This law applies to all individuals within the Maldives, including tourists. The sale of tobacco products to anyone falling under this age restriction is now a criminal offense, punishable by a fine of up to 50,000 Rufiyaa (approximately €2,817). While the primary target is sellers, young people should be aware of the strict purchasing prohibition.

Strict Prohibition on E-Cigarettes (Vapes)

Even before the new generational tobacco ban, the Maldives has had stringent rules against vaping. A law enacted in 2024 banned the import, sale, use, possession, or distribution of all e-cigarettes and vaping devices for all persons, regardless of age. This means visitors are not allowed to bring vapes into the country, even for personal use.

If you arrive at the airport with a vape device, it will be confiscated by customs officials at the border. You will not be penalized or denied entry, but you will be issued a receipt. You must present this receipt upon your departure from the Maldives to retrieve your confiscated device. Furthermore, under the new law, young people (born on or after Jan 1, 2007) caught using vaping devices could face a fine of 5,000 Rufiyaa (approximately €282).

Allowances for Traditional Tobacco for Adult Tourists

While the generational ban applies to younger individuals, adult tourists (born before January 1, 2007) are still permitted to import a limited quantity of traditional tobacco products for personal use. The duty-free allowance includes:

Up to 200 cigarettes OR
Up to 25 cigars OR
Up to 250 grams of tobacco.

Any quantities exceeding these limits will be confiscated by customs and held for a maximum of 30 days. Tourists can collect these excess items at the departure terminal of Velana International Airport before their flight home.

Despite these strict regulations, Maldivian officials are confident they will not deter tourism. Ahmed Afaal, deputy chairman of the country’s tobacco control authority, stated, “People don’t come to the Maldives because they can smoke here. They come for the beaches, the sea, the sun, and the fresh air.” He noted that tourist numbers have continued to increase, with expectations of over two million visitors next year.

Author
Recent Posts

Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.