The Ministry of Tourism has banned locals from traveling and visiting to resort until further notice.

According to circular released by the Ministry of Tourism on Sunday stated the measures has been taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19. In regards to the circular no Maldivian citizen would be allow to holiday in any resort or tourism facilities which are currently hosting tourist according the guidelines issued by the Health Protection Agency (HPA).

HPA has also issued guidelines providing tourism services when the Maldives re-opened its boarders to its tourist on July 15. According to the guidelines, Tourists would be allowed to stay only in resorts which are pre-booked and cannot travel between islands. Its also been reported a safety plan must be in place for all staff working in local resorts and all staff must be trained for COVID-19 protocol and procedures on how to use PPE items according to states guidelines.

The government had permitted 67 resorts to resume operations thus far when boarders re-opens. While permits are in process for safaris and some local guest houses have also been given permission to operate for transit movement.