MMA begins nationwide survey to assess overseas spending by Maldivian travellers

The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has launched the “Maldivians Travelling Abroad Survey 2026” at the arrival halls of Velana International Airport (VIA).

The survey will continue until next Friday.

It will collect information on travel destinations, purpose of travel, expense arrangements, airfare costs and other expenditures incurred during overseas trips. MMA says no personal information will be collected, and all responses will be used solely for statistical purposes. The authority also stated that all data will remain confidential.

MMA staff have been deployed at the arrival hall throughout the survey period, and the authority has requested the public to cooperate.

The Maldives Monetary Authority has commenced the Maldivians Travelling Abroad Survey 2026 at Velana International Airport Arrival Hall. The survey will be conducted from 25–31 July 2026.

The survey collects information on travel destinations, purpose of travel, expense… pic.twitter.com/Sgh2u0AUqn

— MMA (@MMA_Maldives) July 25, 2026

Maldivians travelling abroad currently receive USD 500 at the central bank’s dollar rate. In addition, USD 3,000 is allocated for travel, accommodation and medical expenses through BML.

Many people have complained that these limits force them to buy foreign currency at higher prices. The government came to power pledging to resolve dollar stagnation and eliminate the black market. However, the dollar has remained above MVR 20 for several months.