Participant Guide
ISSA Technical Seminar on Strengthening Financial Sustainability and Institutional Capacity.
1. Welcome Note
Welcome to the Maldives!
It is our great pleasure to welcome you to the ISSA Technical Seminar on Strengthening Financial Sustainability and Institutional Capacity, organised by the International Social Security Association (ISSA) and hosted by the Maldives Pension Office.
This Participant Guide has been prepared to help you enjoy a smooth, comfortable, and enriching visit. Alongside practical logistics and seminar information, it also includes helpful tips on getting around the capital city Malé, Hulhumalé, and Maafushi, navigating the airport, local customs, transportation, and suggestions for things to see and experience during your stay.
Whether this is your first visit to the Maldives or a return to our islands, we hope your time here is both productive and memorable. Should you require any assistance before or during the seminar, please do not hesitate to reach out to the contact persons listed at the end of this guide.
We look forward to welcoming you in May 2026 and to a meaningful and engaging Technical Seminar.
Warm regards,
Maldives Pension Office
2. Quick Facts About the Seminar
Schedule & Location
- Dates: 6–7 May 2026 (Wednesday & Thursday)
- Daily Schedule: 09:00–16:00 each day, including coffee breaks and lunch.
- Venue: Crossroads Maldives, South Malé Atoll (Accessible by speedboat)
Logistics
- Daily Sea Transfers: From Malé / Hulhumalé / Maafushi to Crossroads arranged by the Pension Office every morning and evening.
- Welcome Dinner: 6 May 2026, 18:30–21:00 at Crossroads Maldives.
- Visas & Entry: On-Arrival Meeting Visa. IMUGA Traveller Declaration required within 96 hours before arrival.
3. The Venue: Crossroads Maldives
Crossroads Maldives is the first multi-island integrated leisure destination in the Maldives, combining modern facilities with the relaxed charm of island life. The destination is located in the South Malé Atoll, just 15 minutes from Velana International Airport by speedboat.
What you'll find at Crossroads
- Two resorts: SAii Lagoon Maldives and Hard Rock Hotel Maldives
- The Marina @ Crossroads (cafés, restaurants, shops)
- Walkable waterfront promenades
- Free Wi-Fi in public areas of the Marina
Weather & Environment in Early May
Early May marks the beginning of the Southwest Monsoon season. While generally warm and beautiful, short rain showers and occasional wind are possible.
- Temperature: 28–32°C (warm and humid)
- Humidity: High
- Rain: Short tropical showers, often passing quickly
- Sunlight: Strong UV levels
4. Your Stay: Accommodation Options
Staying at Crossroads Maldives
For maximum comfort and convenience, participants may choose to stay directly at the seminar venue, such as SAii Lagoon Maldives.
- No daily sea transfers required
- Short walking distance to all seminar activities
- Flexible schedule
Malé City
The capital city. Best for those who prefer urban conveniences, local culture, and business-style hotels. Walking distance to cafés and shops.
Hulhumalé
A modern, planned urban island near the airport. Offers a quieter beachfront ambience and modern mid-range hotels.
Maafushi
A popular local island in South Malé Atoll. Budget-friendly guesthouses and a more local island experience. Transfers provided.
5. Transportation to the Venue
During the seminar, Pension Office will provide complimentary round-trip speedboat transfers for registered participants staying in Malé City, Hulhumalé, and Maafushi.
Daily Transfer Times
- MorningTBC
- EveningTBC
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before departure. Boats cannot be delayed.
Departure Points
- Malé City:Henveiru Ferry Terminal (in front of Maagiri Hotel)
- Maafushi:Maafushi Jetty
6. Arrival in Maldives
Participants will arrive through Velana International Airport (VIA), located on Hulhulé Island, directly connected to Malé and Hulhumalé by bridge/highway.
Immigration Requirements
- Passport with Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) and minimum 1 month validity.
- Complete travel itinerary (return tickets, hotel reservations).
- Completed IMUGA Traveller Declaration (within 96 hours before arrival). Submit at imuga.immigration.gov.mv.
Customs Restrictions
The Maldives prohibits bringing in alcohol, narcotics, pork or pork products, and hazardous chemicals. Alcohol will be confiscated at customs.
Connectivity
SIM cards (Dhiraagu, Ooredoo) are available in the arrival hall. Typical tourist packages are USD 40–50 for 15–30 GB.
Airport Taxis
Available 24/7 outside the terminal. 15 mins to Malé, 10-15 mins to Hulhumalé. Use the AvasRide app once you have data.
7. Getting Around
Malé City, Hulhumalé, and Maafushi are relatively small and easy to navigate.
Taxis & AvasRide
Taxis are widely available. The most convenient option is the AvasRide mobile application (similar to Uber/Grab). Payment can be made in cash or via card in the app. Book early during peak hours.
Walking in Malé & Hulhumalé
Malé is compact but busy with narrow streets and motorbike traffic. Use zebra crossings. Hulhumalé is more spacious, pedestrian-friendly, and has a nice beachfront promenade.
Maafushi
A small, highly walkable island. Most places are within a 5–10 minute walk. Taxis are generally not required, though some hotels have small electric buggies.
8. Etiquette in the Maldives
The Maldives is a warm, welcoming, and culturally rich Islamic nation. While resort islands are highly international, local inhabited islands follow modest cultural norms.
Dress Code
- Local Islands (Malé, Hulhumalé, Maafushi): Clothing should be modest. Swimwear is not permitted in public areas (except designated tourist beaches).
- Resorts (Crossroads): Casual resort wear. Swimwear permitted in pool/beach areas. Smart casual for seminar sessions.
Alcohol & Beaches
- Alcohol: Not available on local islands. Available at Crossroads and resorts.
- Local Beaches: Modest swimwear required (covering shoulders/knees).
- Bikini Beach (Maafushi) & Resorts: Regular swimwear allowed.
9. Currency & Payments
The national currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), though the US Dollar (USD) is widely accepted.
Cards
Most hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets accept Visa and Mastercard. Some accept Amex.
Cash & ATMs
Cash is useful for taxis and small local purchases. ATMs are available at the airport and across Malé, Hulhumalé, and Maafushi.
10. Health, Safety & Emergencies
Emergency Numbers
- Police119
- Fire & Rescue118
- Ambulance100
- Coast Guard191
Medical Facilities
Malé and Hulhumalé have well-equipped hospitals capable of addressing most medical needs:
- Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) – Malé
- ADK Hospital – Malé
- Tree Top Hospital – Hulhumalé
Crossroads Maldives maintains on-site first aid support. For serious cases, transport to hospitals will be arranged immediately.
11. Experience Malé
If you are staying in Malé City, you'll find a compact but vibrant capital full of character.
The following spots are easy to find and simple to navigate to using Google Maps.
Must-See Places
- Old Friday Mosque: Malé's oldest mosque.
- Islamic Centre: Striking golden dome.
- National Museum: Located in Sultan Park.
- Local Market & Fish Market: Lively local trade.
- Rasfannu & Artificial Beach: Public beachfronts.
Local Food to Try
- Mas-huni: Tuna and grated coconut with roshi.
- Garudhiya: Clear tuna broth with rice.
- Rihaakuru: Rich fish paste.
- Hedhikaa (short eats): bajiya, gulha, keemia.
12. Useful Contacts
Host Organization (Pension Office)
ISSA Contacts
For questions regarding registration, programme details, or ISSA coordination:
Indrajid Nurmukti