The Maldives launches a loyalty program with perks for repeat visitors

The Maldives has launched a three-tiered loyalty program for visitors, for which a variety of rewards, services or benefits will be given, increasing in value as members progress through the tiers.

Maldives Border Miles will be officially implemented on 1 December, and visitors who enrol in the program will earn points based on the number of visits they make and duration of their stay. Additional points will be awarded for visits to celebrate special occasions, however details of what the rewards will be have not been noted. The program has been implemented because, while 1.7 million travelers visited Maldives in 2019, it had to close its borders on 27 March to curb the spread of COVID-19. It reopened on 15 July, with enhanced precautionary measures against the virus.

There are three categories in the program initiated by Maldives Immigration; gold, silver and bronze. The bronze level is the first tier and it is called Aida, which is from the Divehi language and refers to a bright star in the sky. Antara is the silver tier and means attractive and prestigious, while Abaarana is the third and most prestigious gold tier, and it is an honorific name given to monarchs.

Travelers to the Maldives enjoy its underwater world © Georgette Douwma/Getty Images

Travelers to the country in the Indian Ocean enjoy its numerous white-sand beaches and underwater world. It has some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world, and its coral walls, magnificent caves and schools of brightly-colored tropical fish attract those with an interest in marine life. Beloved by honeymooners and those seeking a glamorous tropical getaway or luxury break, island hopping by public ferry, speedboat and domestic flights has opened up the Maldives to visitors on almost all budgets.