Diplomatic relations between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Maldives were established on March 15, 1978. Since then, the two countries have cultivated a strong and enduring partnership rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and a common commitment to peace, stability, and sustainable development. For nearly five decades, the UAE has been a trusted partner of the Maldives, supporting its development priorities while deepening cooperation across economic, social, cultural, and people-to-people spheres.
The two countries maintain close coordination on regional and international issues of mutual interest, working together to advance climate action and environmental sustainability, combat terrorism and extremism in all their forms, and strengthen multilateral cooperation in addressing global challenges. They also share a commitment to promoting regional and international peace and stability, enhancing the resilience of global supply chains, supporting the sustainable development of emerging economies, and reaffirming the vital role of dialogue and diplomacy in de-escalation and the pursuit of a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace.
Economic cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and the Republic of Maldives continues to expand across trade, investment, infrastructure, tourism, aviation, renewable energy, food security, and financial services. The UAE is the Maldives' second-largest trading partner and was its leading source of imports in 2024. Non-oil trade between the two countries reached US$589.15 million in 2025.
The UAE also plays a key role in supporting the Maldives' development agenda through institutional cooperation, most notably the UAE–Maldives Joint Committee, established in 2019, and through the contributions of the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development to strategic infrastructure projects, including the development of Maafaru International Airport and the new passenger terminal at Velana International Airport. The two countries are also exploring the conclusion of a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), further supported by 42 direct weekly flights connecting Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah with Malé.
The UAE and the Maldives enjoy a growing cultural partnership spanning culture, heritage, and education. Recent milestones include the visit of the Maldivian Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage to Al Qasimia University in Sharjah to explore opportunities for academic and cultural cooperation, as well as meetings between the Sharjah Institute for Heritage and its Maldivian counterparts to strengthen collaboration in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. The Maldives was also honored as the Guest of Honor at the Sharjah International Narrator Forum.
The Maldivian community living in the UAE for study and employment further reflects the close people-to-people ties and shared values between the two countries. Their positive contributions to Emirati society, together with the educational and professional opportunities available to them, underscore the mutual trust and understanding that continue to strengthen cultural exchange and friendship between the two nations.
This interactive page provides Emirati travelers with personalized travel guidance and essential entry requirements based on their selected destination. Through a user-friendly map interface, travelers can quickly access important information, understand destination-specific regulations and requirements, and prepare confidently for their international journey.
- View destination-specific visa and entry requirements.
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This interactive page provides non-UAE citizens with clear and accessible information about visa requirements for entering the United Arab Emirates. Users can search for their country or nationality and quickly determine whether they are eligible for visa-free entry or are required to obtain a visa before travelling, helping them plan their visit and complete the necessary arrangements in advance.
- Search for visa information by country or nationality.
- Check whether entry to the UAE is visa-free or requires a visa.
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- Prepare the required travel and visa arrangements before departure.
