Plan
your trip confidently with these essential Maldives travel tips and
cultural do’s and don’ts. Learn how to respect local customs,
stay safe, and enjoy a smooth, unforgettable island experience.
• Dress modestly on local islands. Shoulders and knees must be covered outside resort zones.
• Respect Islamic customs. Friday is a holy day and many shops close around midday prayers.
• Remove shoes before entering indoor spaces. Homes, mosques, and some community areas expect footwear off.
• Greet with courtesy. “Assalaamu Alaikum” is a warm and respectful greeting.
• Tip appropriately. If not included, around 10% is standard in resorts and guesthouses.
• Support conservation efforts. Coral gardening and eco-volunteer programmes help protect reefs.
• Choose eco-certified accommodation. This supports marine biodiversity and sustainable tourism.
• Ask before photographing locals. Privacy is especially valued on inhabited islands.
• Carry small amounts of cash. Useful for ferries, snacks, and local island shops.
• Try local dishes. Mas huni, garudhiya, and other staples reflect authentic island flavours.
• Learn basic Dhivehi phrases. Simple words help build genuine rapport with locals.
• Wear bikinis on inhabited islands. Swimwear is allowed only in resorts or designated bikini beaches.
• Bring banned items. Alcohol and pork products are illegal to import.
• Show public displays of affection. Hugging or kissing is frowned upon outside resort areas.
• Disrespect prayer times. Avoid interrupting or speaking loudly during calls to prayer.
• Buy coral, shells, or marine items. Removing them is illegal and environmentally damaging.
• Ignore conservative norms. Modesty and politeness are deeply valued.
• Rely solely on cards. Many local islands operate on a cash-only basis.
• Use non-reef-safe sunscreen. Harmful chemicals damage coral reefs.
• Litter beaches or lagoons. Plastic waste seriously harms marine life.
• Fly drones without permission. Permits are required and many islands prohibit drones entirely.
• Assume all islands follow the same rules. Resort and local island laws differ significantly.
• The Maldives is a Muslim country. Respect for religious practices is essential.
• Friday prayers affect daily routines. Expect slower pace and closures around midday.
• Cuisine is simple and fresh. Tuna, coconut, and rice are island staples.
• Boduberu music and dance are important. Performances play a central role in community life.
• Family ties are strong. Courtesy and patience are cultural expectations.
• The Islamic lunar calendar shapes holidays. Dates change each year.
• Wait to be invited indoors. Homes and mosques require explicit permission.
• Photography rules are enforced. Permission is needed in mosques and near government buildings.
• Alcohol is restricted. Available only at resorts and on liveaboards.
• Cover up when moving through villages. Even near beaches on inhabited islands.
• Pack breathable clothing. Heat and humidity are constant year-round.
• Use waterproof cases. Essential for boat travel and island-hopping.
• Bring reef-safe sun protection. Also pack mosquito repellent for evenings.
• Book transfers early. Seaplanes and speedboats operate on strict schedules.
• Withdraw cash in Malé. ATMs are limited on smaller islands.
• Avoid drinking tap water. Use bottled or filtered alternatives.
• Buy a local SIM card. Dhiraagu and Ooredoo offer reliable coverage.
• Prepare for occasional power cuts. Keep devices charged.
• Travel light. Seaplanes enforce strict luggage limits.
• Check ferry timetables carefully. Some routes don’t run daily.
• Get comprehensive travel insurance. Especially important for diving or remote travel.
• Visit Vaadhoo’s Sea of Stars. Bioluminescent waves are spectacular on clear nights.
• Stay on local islands. Thoddoo and Dhigurah offer authentic experiences.
• Pack minimally for transfers. Excess baggage fees are common.
• Take a seaplane at least once. Aerial atoll views are unforgettable.
• Choose small-group dolphin tours. Fewer boats create better experiences.
• Dive South Ari Atoll. Whale shark sightings occur year-round.
• Buy souvenirs from local artisans. Better value and more meaningful than airport shops.
• Head out early in the day. Calm seas suit kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Attend Friday boduberu sessions. Many islands host lively evening drumming.
• Travel in the off-season. May–October offers lower prices with manageable rain.
• The Maldives is very safe. Crime is low, particularly in resort areas.
• Drug laws are extremely strict. Even tiny amounts carry severe penalties.
• Medical facilities are limited. Travel insurance is essential.
• Follow island access rules. Some islands require permits for visitors.
• Monitor weather alerts. Sea conditions can change quickly during monsoon months.
• Use licensed operators only. Required for diving, snorkelling, and excursions.
• Carry ID while island-hopping. Authorities may request identification.
• Swim only in permitted areas. Restricted zones are clearly marked.
• Respect marine life. Never touch turtles, rays, sharks, or coral.
• Public intoxication is illegal. Outside resorts it can result in arrest.
• Observe drone restrictions. No-fly zones apply around airports and inhabited islands.
• English is widely spoken. Especially in resorts and tourist areas.
• Learn a few Dhivehi words. Greetings and thanks are always appreciated.
• Be warm and polite. Hospitality is a strong cultural value.
• Avoid sensitive topics. Religion and politics are unsuitable for casual discussion.
• Keep voices low. Loud behaviour is considered impolite.
• Use your right hand. For eating and offering items.
• Ask before photographing people. Especially women or religious sites.
• Expect reliable connectivity. Wi-Fi is common even on smaller islands.
• Use respectful gestures. Avoid pointing directly at people.
• Practise patience. Island life moves slowly and calmly.
• Offer genuine compliments. Praise for food or crafts is warmly received.