How To Get To Maldives From Nigeria [2025 Guide]
The most common route involves flying from a Nigerian airport (like Lagos or Abuja) to Velana International Airport in Malé, the capital of the Maldives.
Planning a trip from Nigeria to the Maldives in 2025? ✨ You’re in for a dream vacation with white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and overwater villas. While there are no direct flights between Nigeria and the Maldives, reaching Malé (the capital of Maldives) is easy with connecting flights. This guide explains the best routes, costs, distances, and travel tips to help you plan smoothly.
✈️ Flights from Nigeria to Maldives
Currently, there are no nonstop flights from Lagos (LOS) or Abuja (ABV) to Malé (MLE). Travelers need at least one or two stopovers, usually in the Middle East, Europe, or Asia.
Popular Routes in 2025:
- Lagos → Doha → Malé (Qatar Airways)
- Lagos → Dubai → Malé (Emirates)
- Lagos → Addis Ababa → Malé (Ethiopian Airlines)
- Lagos → Istanbul → Malé (Turkish Airlines)
- Abuja → Cairo → Malé (EgyptAir + codeshare partners)
Flight Details:
- Total Duration: 13–18 hours (depending on layover)
- Cost (round trip 2025): NGN 900,000 – 1,400,000 (USD 1,000 – 1,550)
Distance Between Nigeria and Maldives
- Lagos to Malé distance: ~4,800 miles (~7,700 km)
- Direct flight time (if it existed): ~10 hours
- Actual travel time with connections: 13–18 hours
Best Transit Hubs for Nigeria–Maldives Travel
Most Nigerian travelers connect through major international hubs:
- Doha (DOH): Qatar Airways offers smooth connections.
- Dubai (DXB): Emirates provides daily flights to Malé.
- Addis Ababa (ADD): Ethiopian Airlines is often the most budget-friendly.
- Istanbul (IST): Turkish Airlines is reliable with one-stop routes.
- Cairo (CAI): EgyptAir offers affordable connections.
Can You Travel from Nigeria to Maldives by Sea?
A cruise option is technically possible but not practical. Cruises would involve multiple stops in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, taking several weeks. ✨ Flying remains the fastest and most convenient option.
Travel Tips for Nigerians Visiting Maldives in 2025
- Visa-Free Entry: Nigerians get a 30-day visa on arrival in Maldives.
- Best Time to Visit: December to April (dry season). Cheaper fares are available during May–October, but expect some rain.
- Resort Transfers: After arriving in Malé, you’ll need a domestic flight, seaplane, or speedboat transfer to your resort.
- Book Early: Fares from Nigeria to Maldives can be high—book 3–6 months in advance for better deals.
Summary Table – Nigeria to Maldives Travel Options
| Route | Duration | Cost (2025) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lagos → Doha → Malé | 14–16 hours | NGN 1.1M–1.4M | Premium service |
| Lagos → Dubai → Malé | 14–17 hours | NGN 1.0M–1.3M | Luxury & comfort |
| Lagos → Addis Ababa → Malé | 13–15 hours | NGN 900K–1.2M | Budget-friendly |
| Lagos → Istanbul → Malé | 15–18 hours | NGN 1.0M–1.3M | Good connections |
| Abuja → Cairo → Malé | 14–17 hours | NGN 950K–1.2M | Affordable option |
❓ FAQs on Traveling from Nigeria to Maldives
Q1. Is there a direct flight from Nigeria to Maldives?
No, all flights require at least one stopover.
Q2. How long does it take to travel from Nigeria to Maldives?
On average, flights take 13 to 18 hours including layovers.
Q3. How much does it cost to fly from Nigeria to Maldives in 2025?
Round trip fares cost around NGN 900,000 – 1,400,000 (USD 1,000 – 1,550).
Q4. Do Nigerians need a visa for Maldives?
No, Nigerian passport holders get a 30-day visa on arrival.
Q5. What’s the best airline to fly from Nigeria to Maldives?
For comfort: Emirates or Qatar Airways.
For budget: Ethiopian Airlines or EgyptAir.
✈️ With this guide, planning your journey from Nigeria to Maldives in 2025 becomes simple. Whether you prefer luxury routes via Emirates and Qatar or more budget-friendly options with Ethiopian Airlines, the Maldives is just one flight connection away from Nigeria.
