No, don't take a vape pen to the Maldives. Since 2024 the country has banned the import, sale, use and possession of e-cigarettes for everyone, including tourists.

Can You Fly With a Vape Pen To Maldives?

Overview

The Maldives banned the import, sale, use, possession and distribution of e-cigarettes in 2024. The ban applies to everyone, whatever their age.

Euronews reports that visitors can't bring vapes into the country, even for personal use.

Rules for Flying With Vape Pens

If you arrive with a vape, you will not be penalized or refused entry, but customs will confiscate the device at the border.

The customs officer gives you a receipt. Show it when you leave the country to get your item back.

On the flight itself, airline rules still apply. TSA rules for vaping devices allow vapes only in carry-on bags, and the FAA says they must never be used or charged on the aircraft.

Conclusion

Leave your vape at home when you travel to the Maldives. If you bring one, expect it to be held by customs until you depart.

Are Vape Pens Illegal in Maldives?

Maldivian Legal Context

Yes. Vapes are illegal in the Maldives for residents and visitors alike.

The country also has a generational smoking ban. Since November 1, 2025, people born on or after January 1, 2007 can't buy or use tobacco, and this applies to tourists too.

Recent Regulations on Vape Pens

The vape ban took effect in 2024. Euronews reports a fine of 5,000 rufiyaa for using vapes.

We could not confirm the full list of penalties from an official Maldivian source. Check with the Maldives embassy or your resort before you travel.

Legality of Selling Vape Pens in Maldives

Selling vapes is banned, so you can't buy one at the airport or on a resort island. Tobacco can still be sold, but only to people born before 2007.

Tips for Bringing a Vape Pen on a Plane

These tips apply to trips where vapes are legal at your destination. The Maldives is not one of them.

• Carry-on only: pack the vape and any spare batteries in your carry-on. If your bag is gate-checked, take them out first.
• Prevent activation: switch the device off or lock it, and keep spare batteries in a case away from keys and coins.
• Liquids: keep e-liquid bottles at 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less, in your liquids bag. Pressure changes can make tanks leak, so carry them empty or in a sealed bag.
• No vaping on board: don't use or charge your vape on the plane.
• Check the destination: confirm the rules for every stop on your trip. Some places, such as the Maldives, ban vapes outright.

READ MORE: Take A Vape Pen To Mali

I’ve also written about: Take A Vape Pen To Malta

Sources

• Maldives bans smoking for all young people including tourists. Here's what travellers need to know, Euronews
• Electronic Cigarettes and Vaping Devices, Transportation Security Administration
• Vapes On A Plane Marketing Kit, Federal Aviation Administration