Capital city, Maldives
Is Malé LGBTQ+ friendly?
Is Malé LGBTQ+ friendly?
Same-sex acts are criminalised with prison and lashes. Resorts accept couples, but Malé and local islands are conservative; avoid public displays.
LGBTQ+ laws in Maldives
Resorts generally welcome same-sex couples without issue, but public affection elsewhere is risky. Local islands are conservative.
| Status | |
|---|---|
| Same-sex relationships legal | No |
| Same-sex marriage | No |
| Civil unions or partnerships | No |
| Legal gender change | No |
| Anti-discrimination law | No |
| Legal penalty | Up to 8 years in prison and lashes under the Penal Code. |
LGBTQ+ friendliness across Maldives
| Place | Rating |
|---|---|
| Malé | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Maafushi | 1/5 · Dangerous |
| Thulusdhoo | 1/5 · Dangerous |
Quick answers
Is Malé safe for LGBTQ+ travelers?
Same-sex acts are criminalised with prison and lashes. Resorts accept couples, but Malé and local islands are conservative; avoid public displays.
Is same-sex marriage legal in Maldives?
No.
More about Malé
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Sources
- ILGA World: legal frameworks
- Maldives Immigration: Tourist Visa
- IMUGA Traveller Declaration
- Velana International Airport
- MTCC public ferries
- Maldives Immigration
Ratings combine national law with local attitudes and the scene. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.