Qatar Airways extends its 'Travel Bubble Holidays' packages due to popular demand.

• Qatar’s first Covid-19 ‘Travel Bubble Holiday' Packages

• No Exceptional Entry Permit required for residents

• No quarantine or self-isolation on return*

Exclusive use of resorts for Qatar Airways Holidays’ guests from Qatar are being offered. Each resort is situated on its own private island so you can rest assured that these exclusive use resorts are as safe to visit as any of the resorts in Qatar.

NOTE: All packages are available to be booked now to the 15 January 2021, for travel from 1 December to 31 January 2021. All travel must be completed by 5 February 2021.

Before booking your holiday, read the Frequently Asked Questions below:

Who can travel to the Maldives?

These offers are available to anyone who is currently living in Qatar. This includes Qatari Nationals, their travelling companions, and QID holders.

Why can I travel to the Maldives now?

Working closely with its colleagues at Qatar Airways, Hamad International Airport and the Ministry of Public Health, Qatar Airways Holidays has created a ‘Safe Travel Bubble’ between Qatar and the Maldives by securing exclusive use resorts only for Nationals and residents of Qatar.

What is a ‘Safe Travel Bubble’ Holiday Package and how does it work?

The ‘Safe Travel Bubble’ Holiday Packages have been designed so that everyone travelling will have tested negative for Covid-19. All travelers will be required to show a negative PCR test for Covid-19 taken no more than 72 hours prior to boarding. This is a condition of entry into the Maldives.

In addition, all passengers will then be required to undertake a rapid response test at the airport prior to boarding the flight from Doha to Male.

All hotels featured in this offer have been exclusively contracted by Qatar Airways Holidays, so that the only guests staying at the resort are those who have been tested and have arrived on a secure Qatar Airways flight. This means that everyone arriving to each exclusive use resort has had 2 negative Covid-19 tests within 72 hours of their departure.

All staff in each of Qatar Airways Holidays'specially selected resorts are regularly tested for Covid-19. They also undertake a mandatory 14 day quarantine period prior to commencing work on the island resorts. Due to the isolated nature of the resorts, with every reasonable precaution taken, these exclusive use resorts are as safe to visit as any of the resorts in Qatar.

On return to Doha, everyone will receive an additional rapid PCR test for Covid-19 on arrival at HIA. Once a negative test result is confirmed, you will be able to continue your journey home, without quarantine or self-isolation.

Rapid PCR tests will deliver a confirmed result within 15 minutes.

Can I visit the Maldives without buying a Travel Bubble Holidays package from QRH?

Yes, you can visit the Maldives and book into any resort or hotel of your choice, without buying the exclusive travel bubble package, however you will be required to follow the normal exit and entry conditions for the Maldives. An EEP is required for residents, and self-isolation is required for Qatari Nationals and Residents upon return to Qatar.

Where do I get my PCR test done, and what documentation do I need to show at check in?

Please contact your usual local health professional for guidance about how and where to book a certified PCR test for yourself and each of your travelling party.

To assist, the Ministry of Public Health have produced a list of health facilities accredited to test for Covid-19.

Please also ensure you take the appropriate certification to the airport for all members of your travelling party, as this will be a condition of boarding and entry into the Maldives.

Do I need a Visa to enter the Maldives?

Please visit https://immigration.gov.mv/tourist-visa/ to ensure that you meet all the entry requirements for arrival into the Maldives.

What else do I need?

Each member of your travelling party will need to complete a declaration form which will need to be presented when checking-in for the outbound flight before you will be allowed to board.

You will need to keep a hard copy of your ‘Travel Bubble Holidays’ booking confirmation with you at all times. You will be required to present it when checking-in to your return flight and when you return to Qatar to prove that you are exempt from the Exceptional Entry Permit and quarantine requirements.

In accordance to health requirements all travellers travelling to the Maldives are required to submit a self-declarative health declaration within 24 hours prior to their departure. You can submit your application online here.

How many tests will I need to take?

You will be required to take 3 tests in total;

1. A PCR test no more than 72 hours before you planned departure.

2. At HIA before boarding you will receive a rapid PCR test, as a boarding requirement. You will need to go to your boarding gate at least 45 minutes prior to departure. Please ensure you leave ample time in order to receive the test as, if you arrive after this time, you will be denied boarding.

3. Upon your return to HIA after your stay, you will receive a 3rd and final rapid PCR test, which if negative means you can leave the airport and there is no need for any quarantine or self-isolation.

Are there any key timings that I need to be aware of when checking in and boarding at Hamad International Airport?

Check-in will open 4 hours before your scheduled departure and close 2 hours before your scheduled departure. Qatar Airways Holidays recommend that you check-in 4 hours before your flight.

You will need to go to your boarding gate at least 45 minutes prior to departure. Please ensure you leave ample time in order to receive the PCR test as, if you arrive after this time, you will be denied boarding.

Do I need an Exceptional Entry Permit before I can return to Qatar?

Only if you book an exclusive 'Travel Bubble Holidays’ package, will you be exempt from requiring an Exceptional Entry Permit to return to Qatar. All other travel to the Maldives is subject to normal exit, entry and quarantine requirements.

You will need to keep a hard copy of your ‘Travel Bubble Holidays’ booking confirmation with you at all times. You will be required to present it when checking-in to your return flight and when you return to Qatar to prove that you are exempt from the Exceptional Entry Permit and quarantine requirements.

Do I need to quarantine or self-isolate when I return to Qatar?

If you have booked your 'Travel Bubble Holiday’ to the Maldives with Qatar Airways Holidays, on confirmation your rapid PCR test result is negative, you will not need to quarantine or to self-isolate.

If you book any other type of Maldives holiday package, or if you book your flight and hotel separately, Resident Permit holders will need to request an Exceptional Entry Permit and all Qatari Nationals and Residents will be required to follow the quarantine/self-isolation process upon return to Qatar.

Is it safe?

Qatar Airways have implemented new procedures throughout your journey, from check in to arrival, to ensure that safety and hygiene measures are of the highest possible standard. Read more about the enhanced policies here.

All hotels included in this promotion have been carefully selected with the highest standards in hygiene and safety, mandated by the government of the Maldives as outlined in The Maldives Health Protection Agency Guidelines at the bottom of this page.

Is there a minimum stay?

Yes, the minimum stay is 5 nights, but you can add additional nights to your package if you would like to stay longer.

What’s included in my package?

Return air travel, all meals and return transfers by sea to your resort. 

Can children go on a Travel Bubble Holiday package?

Yes. For room occupancy, children will be 3-11 years old on the checkout date, infants are 2 years and under.

Can I book family and friends into these resorts in the Maldives, who are not living in Qatar?

No, the 'Travel Bubble Holidays’ are exclusive to Nationals and Residents of Qatar, to ensure that a safe bubble is preserved.

Do I need to arrive early at the airport?

You should arrive at the airport 4 hours before your stated flight time. Check-in will open 4 hours before your scheduled departure and close 2 hours before. If you attempt to check-in after this time, you will be denied boarding.

What happens on arrival in the Maldives?

All arrivals must wear a mask while travelling through the normal immigration procedures at Velana International Airport. In accordance with local regulations issued by the Ministry of Health, passenger arrivals into the Maldives may be screened for COVID-19. Passengers displaying symptoms may be required to undergo testing at the discretion of the HPA.

In accordance with the law, the resort is required to report all suspected cases to the authorities for further testing to be conducted.

All tourists are recommended to install the contact tracing app “TraceEkee”.

The TraceEkee app can be downloaded to your device from the following locations.

- Apple

- Android

Your transfer will be Covid-19 secure with all appropriate safety protocols being followed. You will be required to wear a mask throughout your transfer. Luggage will be handled by a dedicated handler and sanitised at every stage.

Will I need to wear a mask in the resort?

This is optional and not mandatory. Social distancing is encouraged at all times

Will I be able to visit other islands?

No, you will not be able to visit other islands or the mainland at any time during your stay.

Will all of the resort facilities be available?

Please view individual resort descriptions for details of specific facilities.

Will I be able to go on any excursions?

Please view individual resort descriptions for details of any excursions which may be available. Please also note that any advertised excursion program will be subject to change at short notice. All excursions and activities will be operated within the 'Travel Bubble Holidays’ guidelines.

What happens if I test positive after I make my booking?

If you test positive at any point after booking and before you travel you will receive a 100% refund if you need to cancel.

To travel, you will be required to present a negative PCR test certificate at check in at Hamad International Airport taken within 72 hours of your flight. Before boarding you will receive a rapid PCR test, as a boarding requirement. You will need to go to your boarding gate at least 45 minutes prior to departure. Please ensure you leave ample time in order to receive the test as, if you arrive after this time, you will be denied boarding.

What happens if I do develop symptoms while in the Maldives?

If you or a member of your travelling party test positive to Covid-19 while in the Maldives you will be quarantined at the hotel in a dedicated area, and you will be monitored by the on-site medical personnel. You will need to follow the guidelines set out by the Ministry of Health in the Maldives including the required quarantine period. You will be unable to travel to Qatar until you return a negative test and if you are required to remain in the Maldives beyond your planned travel dates, this will be at your own expense.

If you test positive on your return from MLE you will need to follow instructions from the MOPH representative at the airport. If you require a hotel quarantine package, this will be at your own expense and will be immediately arranged for you by our colleagues at the Discover Qatar desk.

Can I take out Travel Insurance?

Travel Insurance is available to purchase as part of your package and includes policies to cover medical expenses. Please see here for details. If you choose to purchase a separate insurance policy, please ensure that it has the appropriate coverage for Covid-19 related requirements.

What happens if there is any unplanned disruption to my flight or hotel?

In the unlikely event that your flight is cancelled, Qatar Airways Holidays will rebook you on the next flight to the Maldives.

If there is any unplanned disruption at your hotel, it aims to accommodate you at one of the other hotels featured in this offer.

If Qatar Airways Holidays is unable to accommodate you at one of the other hotels featured in this offer, you will be eligible for a full refund. Alternatively, it can book you into a hotel that is not featured in this offer, however you will be subject to the quarantine and Exceptional Entry Permit requirements.

Will I get a refund if I test positive?

If you test positive for Covid-19 and you need to cancel your holidayk, it will waive cancellation charges. If you cancel for any other reason within 72 hours of departure, then 100% cancellation charges apply. See Terms & Conditions for full policy.

Can I still travel if I have tested positive previously?

Yes, as long as you are able to present a negative PCR test result, taken within 72 hours of your flight.

What happens if I do not comply with the requirements or if I leave the hotel island?

Any breach in the required safety compliance will place the customer outside of the 'Travel Bubble Holidays’ package. Should a breach occur, entry requirements back into Qatar will be subject to the normal process including a requirement for Exceptional Entry Permit and any mandated quarantine / self-isolation requirements. Your return flight may be invalidated and any new flights will need to be booked at your own expense. You will be asked to sign a declaration agreeing to these terms as a condition of travel.

I am a travel agent - can I book these packages for my clients?

Yes you can, although the packages are non-commissionable, and need to be booked together with air and land by QRH. You are welcome to charge a service fee for your time and the additional services you provide.

The Maldives Health Protection Agency Guidelines

Please see below the guidelines issues by the Heal Protection Agency in the Maldives that will be strictly adhered to by local staff throughout your 'Travel Bubble Holidays’. Qatar Airways Holidays hopes that this provides re-assurance to you, but if you have any questions please contact at QRHtravelbubble@qatarairways.com.qa

1. Services to adhere to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 at the resort A COVID-19 safe plan in accordance with the guideline of HPA must be in place.

a. Pick up from the airport

i. Airport representatives must wear masks and maintain adequate physical distancing when receiving and escorting tourists

ii. They must observe frequent hand hygiene.

b. Airport lounge

i. Physical distancing compliance with lounge seating maintained at a space distance of 1 metre

ii. Guests travelling together as a group to be accommodated in clustered seating, separate from other grouped or individual guests.

iii. Hand sanitiser points to be available throughout the lounge.

c. Transportation

i. Seating capacity must be displayed in the launch/boat. Seating arrangements should be identified prior to boarding in sea planes.

ii. Hand sanitizers should be available inside the launch/boat.

iii. Cleaning and disinfection should be carried out after every journey. This should include surfaces as well as objects or equipment such as life jackets which came in contact with the passengers

iv. Foot operated, lidded, lined waste bins should be available for disposal of used tissues/masks etc.

v. For seaplanes - Cabin crew should wear adequate PPE (medical masks, face shield/goggles, work clothes)

vi. Flight crew (pilots) should wear adequate PPE (medical masks and work clothes).

d. Accommodation

i. Designated rooms for isolation must be available for guests and staff.

ii. Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be available at the resort.

iii. Relevant staff must be trained in implementing COVID-19 protocols.

iv. The resort must have a medical clinic which meets the standards set forth by Ministry of Health. The resort must have a medical officer and a nurse who are oriented on the protocols of COVID-19 management and COVID-19 safe plan of the resort

e. During stay at the resort

i. Online check-in and check-out mechanism are recommended

ii. Cashless transactions are recommended.

iii. Room keys should be disinfected before giving to the guest.

iv. Sign boards/ posters to remind guests about physical distancing, wearing masks, hand hygiene should be displayed at guest reception areas.

v. Luggage handling staff should wear masks and work clothes.

vi. Enhanced cleaning schedules and sanitisation of high-touch areas to ensure a safe environment for the guests.

vii. Hand sanitising stations to be placed throughout the property.

viii. Guest rooms/villas to be thoroughly cleaned before and after every stay. All rooms to contain a hygiene kit with mask and hand sanitiser.

ix. There should be adequate distancing between the tables (at least 1 metre) at the restaurants. Ensure physical distancing compliance and highest hygiene and safety standards.

x. Dining tables and chairs should be cleaned and disinfected after every use.

xi. Advance reservations to be done for spa/salon and gym.

xii. Reduce persons inside the gym to a specified number to allow for physical distancing.

xiii. Existing inter-island travel restrictions must be followed. Excursion trips should not pick tourists from multiple resorts or guest house islands.

xiv. Staff entering the rooms of guests to clean the room and change the linen must wear masks, work clothes, disposable or reusable (washable) apron over the work clothes, gloves and closed shoes. If cleaning the room of a quarantined or isolated person, a face shield/goggles must be worn in addition.

xv. Wearing masks is mandatory for all staff at laundry, swimming pool, beach and sea sports, kid’s zones and other facilities at the resort.

f. Staff movement and accommodation at the resort

i. Staff of Resorts must observe the existing HPA measures on restrictions on inter-island travel.

ii. Staff who are accommodated together should minimize close contacts with staff from other departments where feasible.

iii. Accommodation quarters and rooms should be cleaned and disinfected daily.

iv. Regular staff whose work is based in the resort must not be allowed to travel daily back and forth for work between their resident islands and the resort. They should be provided a fixed accommodation at the resort.

v. Designated staff servicing the Qatar Airways Holidays customers during the campaign period are not allowed to travel outside the resort until the last check-out. They should be accommodated at the resort.

g. PCR testing in the Maldives

i. Passengers displaying symptoms may be required to undergo testing at the discretion of the HPA. In accordance with the law, the resort is required to report all suspected cases to the authorities for further testing to be conducted.

For more details, email QRHtravelbubble@qatarairways.com.qa or call +974 4423 7999.