Maldives has raised ticket prices for international travelers following a significant increase in jet fuel costs caused by the continuing conflict in the Middle East.

Sun has discovered that the national airline increased tourist prices two days ago. The largest hikes are observed on the longest domestic flights from Velana International Airport, as fares to Addu and Fuvahmulah increase by USD 33 (MVR 510.18) for each traveler.

The increase in price affects only tourist tickets; prices for Maldivian citizens stay the same.

The change follows the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) increasing the price of jet fuel at VIA by 42 percent, raising the cost from USD 1.19 to USD 1.69 per litre. Industry sources characterize this as among the sharpest increases in fuel prices seen in recent years. Experts indicate that Island Aviation Services Ltd will face severe consequences without increasing fares.

Global oil prices have risen sharply after the United States declared it would shut Iranian ports beginning Monday as part of actions related to the conflict between Iran, the United States, and Israel.

Brent crude, the global standard, increased by almost eight percent to USD 102 per barrel, whereas the US benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) jumped nine percent to USD 105 per barrel. Prior to the conflict intensifying, Brent crude was priced at approximately USD 70 per barrel.