The Maldives: in everyone’s imagination, these islands in the Indian Ocean, located very close to the Equator, are paradise on Earth. Hundreds of remote atolls—many still uninhabited—along with pristine islands and perfect white beaches, powerful sun, and crystal-clear waters: the Maldives are a dream destination for all sea lovers.
In the Maldives, you can visit the Ari Atoll, one of the most beautiful, or Rasdhoo Atoll, ideal for snorkeling and water sports enthusiasts. You can try windsurfing or kitesurfing, wander through the fish markets in the old capital Malé, or ride the high waves on your surfboard. Everything related to relaxation and beauty here in the Maldives can be taken for granted.
LANGUAGE: The official language is Dhivehi (Maldivian), which is also spoken in parts of India by about 350,000 people. Due to the presence of tourism, English is increasingly widespread.
RELIGION: The only religion practiced on the islands is Sunni Islam, as there is no freedom of worship.
TIME ZONE: UTC +5
DOCUMENTS: An electronic passport is required to enter the Maldives and must be valid for at least one month beyond your planned return date. Without an electronic passport, entry may be denied. A visa is mandatory; it is valid for 30 days and issued upon arrival at the airport. It can be extended for an additional 60 days.
CURRENCY: The Maldivian Rufiyaa is the local currency. However, US dollars are widely accepted, and euros are also accepted in most tourist resorts (check locally to be sure).
Curiosity
Here are some interesting facts about the Maldives:
- Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.
- Non-Muslims cannot obtain citizenship in the country.
- The traditional dress, now rarely worn—especially in the capital—is called Dhigu Hedhun. It is intricately embroidered with gold filigree, bright colors, and silk.
- The word "atoll" originates from the Maldivian term "atholhu", which means “lagoon island.”
- The value of an island was traditionally judged by the number of coconut trees growing on it.
Our advices
TO READ: Ibn Battuta, the famous Moroccan writer known as one of history’s most adventurous travelers and explorers, wrote a detailed account titled "Rihla" ("The Journey") describing his travels and the wonders he encountered in the Maldives.
TO LISTEN TO: The official dance of the Maldives is Bodu Beru. The musical ensembles are made up of varying numbers of drummers who perform rhythms similar to African beats.
TO WATCH: The breathtaking landscapes featured in the film "Kon-Tiki" by director Joachim Rønning were filmed in the Maldives.
TO EAT: Maldivian cuisine adheres to Islamic dietary laws—pork is not allowed. The main foods are rice and fish, while meat is eaten only occasionally. Typical dishes include fried fish, fish curry, and seafood soup. The traditional local drink is Raa, a sweet palm wine.
