Maldives to Permit Spearfishing Next Month in Tourism Diversification Push

The planned changes signal a shift toward broadening tourism activities while maintaining regulatory oversight, as authorities prepare to roll out the new framework in the coming weeks.

Mohamed Hilmy

31 March 2026, 04:42

The Government is set to permit spearfishing in Maldivian waters from next month, marking a significant policy shift after a 40-year ban, Tourism Minister Thorig Ibrahim announced this week.

Speaking at a press conference, the Minister said amendments to existing regulations are currently underway to allow fishing using spearguns and similar tools. The move is part of broader efforts to diversify the Maldives’ tourism sector and introduce new experiences for visitors.

Spearfishing has long been prohibited in the Maldives, though the use of traditional hand-spears, such as iron rods, remains legal under current rules.

The Minister noted that the introduction of regulated spearfishing is expected to create a new niche within the tourism industry, potentially attracting adventure and sport fishing enthusiasts.

In addition to this initiative, Thorig said the Government is also working on drafting regulations to introduce technical recreational diving, further expanding the country’s marine-based tourism offerings.

The planned changes signal a shift toward broadening tourism activities while maintaining regulatory oversight, as authorities prepare to roll out the new framework in the coming weeks.

Historically, spearfishing played a notable role in the early development of Maldives tourism, with some of the first visitors travelling to the country specifically for the activity.

Maldives to Permit Spearfishing Next Month in Tourism Diversification Push

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