How To Get To Maldives From Manila [2025 Guide] ✈️
The best way to get from Manila to Maldives costs only $281 and takes just 11¾ hours. Find the travel options that best suit you.
Planning a dream escape from the Philippines to the Maldives? ️ If you’re in Manila, reaching this tropical paradise is easier than you might think. The Maldives, famous for its overwater villas, turquoise lagoons, and white sandy beaches, is just a few flights away.
In this 2025 travel guide, I’ll walk you through all the best options—from flights to transfers—so you know exactly how to get from Manila (MNL) to Malé (MLE), the gateway to the Maldives.
✈️ Flights from Manila to Maldives
Currently, there are no direct flights between Manila and Malé. However, you can easily reach the Maldives with a one-stop flight via major hubs in Asia or the Middle East.
Popular Airlines & Routes (2025)
- Singapore Airlines: Manila (MNL) → Singapore (SIN) → Malé (MLE)
- Malaysia Airlines: Manila (MNL) → Kuala Lumpur (KUL) → Malé (MLE)
- SriLankan Airlines: Manila (MNL) → Colombo (CMB) → Malé (MLE)
- Emirates: Manila (MNL) → Dubai (DXB) → Malé (MLE)
- Qatar Airways: Manila (MNL) → Doha (DOH) → Malé (MLE)
Travel Time: 9–13 hours (including layover)
Economy Cost: PHP 25,000 – 40,000 round trip
Business Class: PHP 90,000 – 150,000 round trip
The fastest and smoothest routes are usually with Singapore Airlines or Malaysia Airlines, as they involve only one quick stop.
️ Arrival in Maldives
Your flight will land at Velana International Airport (MLE), located near the capital, Malé. From here, your resort will arrange onward travel.
Transfer Options from Malé Airport
- Speedboat Transfer ⛴️: Ideal for resorts close to Malé. Journey takes 30–60 minutes. Cost: USD $100–$300 per person.
- Seaplane Transfer ️: Perfect for remote luxury resorts. Flight takes 40–60 minutes. Cost: USD $250–$600 per person.
Tip: Resorts usually arrange your transfers automatically once you book. Always confirm before your trip.
Cruise Option from the Philippines
While less common, another option is to join an Indian Ocean cruise that includes the Maldives as a stop. However, these cruises usually start from Singapore or Dubai, so you’d first fly from Manila to the departure port.
- Duration: 10–20 days
- Cost: Higher than flights
- Best For: Travelers who want a multi-country luxury experience
Travel Options Comparison
| Route / Airline | Duration | Cost (Round Trip) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Singapore Airlines via SIN | 9–11 hrs | PHP 30,000–40,000 | Fast & reliable |
| ✈️ Malaysia Airlines via KUL | 9–11 hrs | PHP 28,000–38,000 | Budget-friendly |
| ✈️ SriLankan Airlines via CMB | 10–12 hrs | PHP 30,000–40,000 | Regional option |
| ✈️ Emirates via Dubai | 12–13 hrs | PHP 32,000–45,000 | Luxury stopover |
| ✈️ Qatar Airways via Doha | 12–13 hrs | PHP 32,000–45,000 | Comfort & service |
| Cruise via Singapore/Dubai | 10–20 days | $$$ | Scenic, slow travel |
Best Way to Get to Maldives from Manila in 2025
- Fastest Route: Singapore Airlines (Manila → Singapore → Malé)
- Most Affordable: Malaysia Airlines with a layover in Kuala Lumpur
- Luxury Experience: Emirates or Qatar Airways with a Middle East stopover
- Unique Option: Combine a flight + cruise for a longer adventure
❓ FAQs: Getting to Maldives from Manila
Q1. Are there direct flights from Manila to Maldives?
No, all flights have at least one stopover, usually in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Colombo, or the Middle East.
Q2. How long does it take to travel from Manila to Maldives?
The total journey takes around 9–13 hours, depending on your chosen route.
Q3. How much is a round-trip ticket from Manila to Maldives?
Expect to pay PHP 25,000–40,000 for economy class and PHP 90,000+ for business class.
Q4. Do Filipinos need a visa to enter Maldives?
No, Philippine passport holders get a free 30-day visa on arrival in the Maldives.
Q5. How do I get from Malé Airport to my resort?
Most resorts arrange speedboat or seaplane transfers. Costs vary between USD $100–$600.
Q6. When is the best time to fly from Manila to Maldives?
The dry season (November–April) is the most popular, but you’ll find better deals during the off-peak months (May–October).
✅ That’s your complete 2025 guide to getting from Manila to the Maldives! Whether you go for the fast and smooth Singapore Airlines route, the budget-friendly Malaysia Airlines option, or a luxury Emirates or Qatar journey, paradise is only one flight away. ✨
