Is it possible to import a drone into the Maldives?
Bringing a drone to the Maldives is not simply allowed or banned. Flying one needs permission, and the official rules set an order: first the defence authorities, then the Civil Aviation Authority, then the resort or island. Here is how it works and what to check before you pack the drone.
What the official rules say
The Maldives Civil Aviation Authority reviews every drone operation individually. The reason it gives is that seaplanes fly under visual flight rules, so fixed recreational boundaries are hard to set.
- Apply to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), using its application form. Depending on the area, you may need its approval. The permit service is listed on the national oneGov portal as a permit issued by the Ministry of Defence and National Service.
- Only after MNDF approval, apply to the Civil Aviation Authority. Send its application form by email and include a copy of the MNDF permit; the authority stresses that this copy is mandatory.
- Get any other approvals yourself. The authority names resorts, island or city councils, the National Centre for the Arts and Maldives Airports Company as examples.
- Keep the drone below 400 feet during every flight.
The official pages do not publish fees, processing times or penalties. Ask the Civil Aviation Authority directly, and do not rely on third-party blogs for these details.
Why the resort or island must agree
Even with state permits, the owner of the place where you want to fly decides whether you may. Most resort islands are private, and many care about the privacy of guests more than about aerial photography.
This is why the Civil Aviation Authority lists resorts and island councils among the parties whose approval you must obtain yourself. A permit from the authorities does not replace it.
Flying on a local island
On an island with residents, ask the island council and your guesthouse before you plan any flight. Keep the drone away from homes, mosques and other people, even if you have a permit.
Our team on Thoddoo can tell you whom to ask. Message us before you travel, not after you arrive.
Customs and the plan B
The official pages we checked do not describe the import procedure for a drone. Ask Maldives Customs and your airline before you travel, and carry your permits with you.
If the permits take too long or the resort says no, you can still film the island without a drone: from the beach, from a boat on a snorkelling trip, and underwater with an action camera.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring a drone to the Maldives?
You can plan to, but flying needs permission. The Civil Aviation Authority reviews each operation case by case, and the resort or island must agree as well.
Who do I ask first?
According to the Civil Aviation Authority, first the Maldives National Defence Force, depending on the area, then the Civil Aviation Authority with a copy of the MNDF permit.
How high can I fly?
The Civil Aviation Authority asks operators to stay below 400 feet. Treat the limit in your own permit as binding.
How much does the permit cost and how long does it take?
The official pages do not say. Ask the Civil Aviation Authority and the defence authorities directly.
Can I fly a drone on Thoddoo?
Only with permission from the authorities and the island. Ask us before you travel and keep away from homes and mosques.
Reviewed by the Relax Residence team in October 2026.
