Book flights to the Maldives (MLE) from Istanbul(IST)

Enjoy extraordinary journeys with us

When you fly from Istanbul to The Maldives with Qatar Airways, every detail is carefully designed to make your journey exceptional from the moment you board. Experience renowned hospitality as our attentive cabin crew welcomes you, ensuring you are well cared for throughout your flight. Step into a modern aircraft interior, where spacious seating and elegant design create a relaxing atmosphere. Settle in and explore Oryx One, our award-winning in-flight entertainment system, offering thousands of movies, TV shows and games. Whether you prefer a light snack or full-course meal, enjoy a menu of gourmet cuisine, freshly prepared and inspired by global flavours. With plush pillows, soft blankets and luxury amenity kits, you can rest in unmatched comfort and arrive feeling refreshed.

Sabiha Gökçen International Airport provides a modern and efficient starting point for your international travels from Istanbul. Located on the Asian side, this departure point ensures a relaxed experience thanks to friendly staff focused on outstanding passenger service. When planning your journey, remember that IST is one of two Istanbul airports, so ensure you are at the correct one.

For transport, regular buses connect the airport to the nearest Metro station and the city centre, typically taking 30-45 minutes. Taxis are widely available, but consider asking your hotel concierge to book an official metered taxi for you, or use SAWKOOP taxis for fixed-price transfers. Parking is available in the four-storey car park next to the main terminal, which offers 4,700 spaces.

Allow ample time for your departure, as security checks are particularly tight; aim for one and a half to two hours before boarding to complete check-in and security. Within the main terminal, you will find 112 check-in desks and 24 online check-in counters, along with several VIP and business/first-class passenger lounges. Comfort is key here, with spacious waiting areas, mother and baby rooms as well as prayer rooms. Stay connected using the airport Wi-Fi, available for a fee, or use the fixed internet kiosks. Before you board your flight, explore the shopping area, which houses several high-quality outlets selling watches, perfumes, leather goods and accessories.

The Maldives is a tropical destination boasting crystal-clear oceans and powder-soft white sand. Moving between the islands is an experience in itself. Take a speedboat or scenic seaplane to reach your chosen location, as the archipelago is made up of over 1,100 stunning coral islands.

The main attraction of the Maldives is the natural environment, where the rhythm of life is dictated by the ocean. Beneath the surface, a vibrant world awaits. Explore the colourful coral reefs through world-class diving and snorkelling, and admire a rich tapestry of aquatic life. This is the ultimate escape if you're seeking serenity in the Indian Ocean.

If you wish to go beyond the resorts, take a water taxi to the nation's capital, Malé. Here, you can taste a slice of authentic Maldivian culture away from the idyllic resorts. Wander around local markets or spoil yourself at a variety of other shopping outlets. Remember to stop by the historic Old Friday Mosque, one of the most important structures in the capital.