Is it possible to export shells from the Maldives?
Short answer: do not take shells or corals out of the Maldives. The official customs circular lists corals, several kinds of shells and other marine items as not allowed in your luggage without a permit or licence, and all outgoing baggage can be inspected. Here is what the list says, and what you can take home instead.
What the official circular says
The Maldives Civil Aviation Authority publishes the customs rules for passengers in an Air Transport Circular (AT 01/2024, dated 15 December 2024). Its section on departing passengers says the following.
| Item | Can it leave in your luggage? |
|---|---|
| Black corals; corals and sea anemones | Not without a valid permit or licence |
| Triton shells; conches (sangu); giant clams; pearl oysters | Not without a valid permit or licence |
| Lobsters | Not without a valid permit or licence |
| Turtles and turtle shells | Not without a valid permit or licence |
| Sharks and shark fins | Not without a valid permit or licence |
The list is introduced with the words “such as”, so it is not complete. The circular also says that any item that needs an export licence or special permission from a government authority is not allowed, except in limited quantities decided by Customs. If you are unsure about an item, ask Maldives Customs before you pack it.
Inspection and what can happen
- All outgoing passengers and their baggage are subject to Customs inspection, and nothing is guaranteed to pass unseen.
- The circular does not state penalties, and we do not know a reliable figure, so we do not quote one. Expect the item to be taken, and treat anything more serious as a risk that is not worth taking for a souvenir.
What about shops and receipts
You will find shells and coral jewellery on sale in some places. A shop selling an item does not mean you may take it out of the country.
The circular mentions only a valid permit or licence for items on the list. It says nothing about a shop receipt making an export legal, so we do not tell guests that a receipt is enough. The safest choice is not to buy shells, coral or turtle products at all.
Why the beach should stay as it is
A shell on the beach is not just a souvenir. Empty shells shelter small animals such as hermit crabs and add to the sand, and coral is part of the reef that protects the islands. If every guest takes a few, a small island notices.
On Thoddoo, leave shells where you find them. Take a photo instead.
What you can take home
- Photos and videos of the island, the reef and the sunset.
- Local food products, such as spices and dried fruit, within the rules for your country of arrival.
- Handicrafts and textiles that are not made of coral, shell or turtle shell.
- A message to us: we can suggest a safe souvenir on Thoddoo.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take shells out of the Maldives?
Not without a valid permit or licence. According to the official customs circular, triton shells, conches, giant clams and pearl oysters are on the list of items that may not be carried out.
Can I take coral?
No, not without a valid permit or licence. Corals, sea anemones and black corals are on the official list.
Is a shop receipt enough?
The official circular does not say so. It mentions only a valid permit or licence, so do not rely on a receipt.
Is the list complete?
No. The circular says “such as”, and it also bars any item that needs an export licence or special permission, except in limited quantities decided by Customs.
Will my luggage be checked?
All outgoing passengers and baggage are subject to Customs inspection.
Reviewed by the Relax Residence team in October 2026.
