How To Get To Maldives From Ethiopia [2025 Guide]
If you live in Ethiopia and dream of escaping to the Maldives’ turquoise lagoons and white sandy beaches, you’ll be happy to know that reaching this paradise is straightforward. Thanks to Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), Ethiopia is well-connected to Asia and the Middle East, making Maldives flights easy to plan. In this 2025 guide, I’ll explain all the flight options, travel times, costs, and transfer details so you can plan your journey stress-free.
✈️ Option 1: One-Stop Flights from Ethiopia to Maldives
Currently, there are no direct flights between Ethiopia and Maldives. However, one-stop connections are very convenient and widely available.
- Popular Airlines & Routes:
- Ethiopian Airlines + SriLankan Airlines → Addis Ababa (ADD) → Colombo (CMB) → Malé (MLE)
- Qatar Airways → Addis Ababa (ADD) → Doha (DOH) → Malé (MLE)
- Emirates → Addis Ababa (ADD) → Dubai (DXB) → Malé (MLE)
- Turkish Airlines → Addis Ababa (ADD) → Istanbul (IST) → Malé (MLE)
- Duration: 9 – 13 hours including layover.
- Cost (Round Trip 2025): $600 – $900.
Best balance between time, comfort, and price.
Option 2: Two-Stop Budget Flights from Ethiopia
If you’re flexible on travel time and want to save money, two-stop flights can sometimes be cheaper.
- Possible Routes:
- Addis Ababa → Middle Eastern Hub (Dubai, Doha) → Colombo → Malé
- Addis Ababa → Istanbul → Mumbai → Malé
- Duration: 14 – 20+ hours depending on layovers.
- Cost: $500 – $750 round trip if booked in advance.
Ideal for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind longer journeys.
Recommended Airports in Ethiopia
The best airport to fly from is Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD), as it offers the most international connections. Other regional airports may require an extra domestic flight to Addis before connecting internationally.
Transfers After Arriving in Maldives
All flights from Ethiopia land at Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé. Since most resorts are on private islands, you’ll need an additional transfer:
- Speedboat: $50 – $200 (30 minutes – 2 hours)
- Seaplane: $250 – $600 (20 – 60 minutes with amazing views)
- Domestic Flight + Boat: $100 – $300
Always confirm transfer details with your resort before finalizing flights.
Ethiopia to Maldives Travel Summary
| Route Type | Duration | Cost (USD) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| One-Stop Flight | 9 – 13 hrs | $600 – $900 | Balanced option |
| Two-Stop Flight | 14 – 20+ hrs | $500 – $750 | Cheapest option |
Best Way to Get to Maldives from Ethiopia in 2025
The best way to reach Maldives from Ethiopia is by booking a one-stop flight via Doha, Dubai, Colombo, or Istanbul. These routes are reliable, time-efficient, and relatively affordable. If budget is your top priority, consider a two-stop flight, but expect longer travel times.
❓ FAQs on How To Get To Maldives from Ethiopia
Q1. Are there direct flights from Ethiopia to Maldives?
No, there are currently no direct flights. All flights include at least one stop in hubs like Doha, Dubai, Colombo, or Istanbul.
Q2. How long does it take to fly from Ethiopia to Maldives?
A one-stop flight takes 9 – 13 hours, while two-stop budget flights may take 14 – 20+ hours.
Q3. What is the cheapest way to get from Ethiopia to Maldives?
Two-stop flights can be as low as $500 round trip if booked early, but they take longer.
Q4. Which airlines fly from Ethiopia to Maldives?
Qatar Airways, Emirates, Turkish Airlines, SriLankan Airlines, and Ethiopian Airlines (via codeshare).
Q5. Do Ethiopian citizens need a visa for Maldives?
No, Ethiopian citizens receive a 30-day visa on arrival in Maldives (passport valid for at least 6 months required).
Q6. Which airport in Ethiopia is best for Maldives flights?
Addis Ababa Bole International Airport (ADD) is the main and best-connected airport for international flights.
✅ Final Travel Tip: For the smoothest journey, book your flights early and coordinate your Maldives resort transfer in advance. This ensures a seamless trip from Ethiopia to paradise in the Maldives.
