Smartraveller Urges Australians to Exercise High Caution in Maldives
The Maldives travel warning has been updated by Australia’s Smartraveller advisory, with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) urging Australians to “exercise a high degree of caution” when visiting the tropical island nation. While no change has been made to the official threat level, the recent update highlights ongoing concerns about civil unrest, violent protests, and potential terrorist activity, particularly in non-resort areas like Malé.
The update, issued on 5 June 2025, comes amid continued incidents of violence and tension across some local islands in the Indian Ocean archipelago. Although the Maldives remains a popular destination for honeymooners and tourists, with over 34,000 Australians visiting in 2023, authorities are reminding travellers to remain vigilant.
Smartraveller has issued a terrorism alert for Australians planning to visit the Maldives. [Credit: Alice Murray]
What the Maldives Travel Warning Says
According to the updated Maldives travel warning, tourists should avoid areas affected by protests and demonstrations, which could escalate into violence with little or no warning. DFAT specifically highlighted greater Malé, the capital and population centre, as a hotspot for unrest.
“Exercise a high degree of caution in Maldives due to the risk of civil unrest and the threat of terrorism,” Smartraveller states.
“Public demonstrations can occur and may become violent. Avoid areas impacted by demonstrations and follow the advice of local authorities.”
The Maldives travel advice remains at Level 2, meaning Australians are not being told to avoid travel altogether but should pay close attention to personal safety and local developments.
Terror Attacks in the Maldives: A Troubling History
The updated warning follows several recent and historic incidents, including terrorist attacks in 2020 and 2021:
- In February 2020, an Australian tourist was stabbed during an attack in Hulhumalé that also injured two other foreigners.
- In March 2020, a police speedboat was set on fire in Laamu Gan.
- In May 2021, a homemade explosive device detonated in Malé, injuring a former president and several bystanders.
These incidents underscore the risk of terrorism and politically motivated violence, particularly in urban and government areas. DFAT warns that terrorism can occur anywhere at any time, and that attackers may target locations frequented by tourists, including transport hubs, hotels, restaurants, and cultural sites.
Resort Islands Remain Safe—But Not Immune
While the Maldives is often associated with luxury resorts and serene overwater villas, the Maldives travel warning makes a clear distinction between resort islands and populated areas like Malé and non-resort islands. DFAT assures travellers that:
“Resort islands are generally peaceful and secure.”
Still, Australians are advised to stay in contact with their airline or travel operator, especially in case of disruptions or sudden changes in the security landscape.
Travellers should avoid known flashpoints, decline unexpected packages or offers, and monitor local media regularly. Smartraveller also notes that drug-related and gang-related violence can occur in urban areas.
Tips for Australian Tourists Visiting the Maldives
To remain safe while visiting the Maldives, Australian travellers are encouraged to follow these key steps:
- Avoid large public gatherings, even if they appear peaceful.
- Stay updated by monitoring local news and alerts.
- Follow the advice of local authorities and hotel security personnel.
- Do not accept packages or transport items for strangers.
- Be aware of your surroundings, particularly in cities like Malé or Hulhumalé.
- Keep in regular contact with family, friends, or travel services.
DFAT also advises tourists to register their travel on the Smartraveller website and subscribe for updates.
Why the Maldives Travel Warning Matters
Despite its reputation as a safe and stunning holiday destination, the Maldives travel warning highlights how geopolitical instability, terrorism threats, and domestic unrest can affect even the most idyllic locations.
The Maldives is situated approximately 750 kilometres southwest of Sri Lanka and consists of over 1,000 coral islands, many of which are isolated and difficult to access without coordination.
Given the country’s small size and proximity to regional instability, DFAT stresses that security conditions can change rapidly, and Australian travellers must remain alert throughout their stay.
Australians Encouraged to Stay Informed
The Smartraveller update concludes with a firm but balanced message:
“The level of our advice has not changed. Exercise a high degree of caution in the Maldives.”
While the federal government isn’t discouraging travel, it is urging all Australians to make informed decisions and be proactive about their safety. The update serves as a reminder that tropical paradise doesn’t always mean risk-free travel, especially when unrest or terrorism threats are a possibility.
For the latest safety updates, Australians are encouraged to visit the official Smartraveller website.
