South Asia
Maldives
Atolls of private resort islands with superb diving and snorkelling. Resorts are expensive; local-island guesthouses cost far less but follow Islamic rules (no alcohol, bikini beaches only). Little nightlife.
- US travel advisoryLevel 2Exercise increased cautionDetails
- Visa4 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencyMVRUS$1 ≈ Rf15.44Details
- Price level51%of US prices (World Bank PPP)Details
- English4/5Widely spokenDetails
- PlugsType C, D, G230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency119Police 119 · Ambulance 102 · Fire 118
- Tap waterFilter or boilMalé's tap water is desalinated, but most visitors drink bottled or resort-filtered water.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedResorts generally welcome same-sex couples without issue, but public affection elsewhere is risky.Details
- DrivingOn the leftVisitors rarely drive; islands are tiny and transfers are by speedboat, ferry or seaplane.
Where to go in Maldives
3 places with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MaléCapital city | 4/5 | $1,940–3,240 | Dec–Apr | 31/100 |
| MaafushiIsland | 4/5 | $2,590–4,210 | Dec–Apr | 14/100 |
| ThulusdhooIsland | 4/5 | $2,460–3,890 | Dec–Apr | 17/100 |
When to visit Maldives
December–April is dry, sunny and priciest. May–November brings southwest-monsoon rain and wind but lower prices; surf season runs roughly March–October.
Good to know
Entry
- Visa on arrival requires a confirmed, prepaid booking at a registered resort or guesthouse, a return ticket and enough funds.
- Submit the free IMUGA Traveller Declaration within 96 hours before arrival; every traveller, including children, needs one.
- Israeli passport holders have been refused entry since 15 April 2025.
- Customs bans bringing in alcohol, pork, pornography and idols for worship; bags are X-rayed on arrival.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Alcohol is legal only on resorts and liveaboards, never on local islands or in Malé.
- Bikinis only at resorts or designated bikini beaches on local islands.
- Public worship of other religions and criticism of Islam are illegal.
Etiquette
- Cover shoulders and knees in Malé and on local islands
- Don't bring alcohol or pork onto local islands
- During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public on local islands
- Ask before photographing locals, especially women
Tipping
A 10% service charge is added to most bills, plus tax. Many resort guests also tip staff a few dollars a day.
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Maldives Immigration: Tourist Visa
- IMUGA Traveller Declaration
- Visit Maldives (official tourism board)
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.