US updates travel advisory for the Maldives: ‘Terrorist groups may attack’

The US State Department issued a revised travel advisory pertaining to the Republic of the Maldives Oct. 7.

“Exercise increased caution in [the Maldives] due to terrorism,” the Level 2 travel warning notes. 

The advisory indicates that “terrorist groups may attack with little or no warning.”

Tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls and local government facilities are listed as possible targets. 

Officials warn that attacks may also occur on remote islands, lengthening the response time of authorities in the event of an emergency.

Travelers who have trips planned are encouraged to monitor local and breaking news.

While in the Maldives, visitors should stay aware of their surroundings and avoid demonstrations and crowds, officials said.

The U.S. State Department put out a new travel advisory giving travelers a warning to those heading to the Republic of the Maldives. Geza Kurka – stock.adobe.com

The newly issued advisory states, “Exercise increased caution in [the Maldives] due to terrorism.” IBEX.Media – stock.adobe.com

Purchasing travel insurance is also strongly recommended. 

In 2024, over 2 million people visited the Maldives, according to the government’s database. 

The island is in South Asia near the eastern Arabian Sea within the northern Indian Ocean.

The Maldives is made up of 1,192 islands — only 200 are inhabited — that stretch along a length of over 500 miles, according to the location’s tourist site.