The Tourism Ministry has stated that all guidelines and statements issued from the ministry regarding the COVID-19 pandemic are based on the Health Protection Agency, HPA’s decisions.
The announcement comes amid criticism aimed at the ministry for banning locals from traveling to resorts and other tourist facilities. A circular issued by the ministry earlier on Sunday said the measure is being taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In a statement released on Sunday night, the ministry said locals can visit tourism facilities for leisure purposes only as per HPA’s policies.
HPA issued a guideline on providing tourism services when the Maldives reopened its borders to tourists on July 15. According to the guidelines, tourists may stay only at pre-booked resorts and cannot travel between islands. A safety plan must be in place and all staff working at local resorts must be trained on the COVID-19 protocols and how to use PPE, the guideline states.
67 resorts were permitted to resume operation when the borders were reopened. While permits have been issued to safaris, some local guesthouses have also been given permission to be used for transit movements.
