Where is the Maldives located?

The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, just southwest of Sri Lanka.

What currency is used in the Maldives?

The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian rufiyaa (Rf). The US dollar is widely accepted as a legal tender. With our cheap holidays to the Maldives, you could have some extra spending money!

What's the time difference between the UK and the Maldives?

Maldives Time (MHT) is five hours ahead of the UK.

When is the best time to go to the Maldives?

The best time to visit the Maldives is the dry season between November and April.

How long should you stay in the Maldives?

It's recommended to stay in the Maldives for a week or more to allow time to relax, explore and indulge in some water sports or other activities.

What's Ramadan like in the Maldives and when does it happen?

Ramadan is the Islamic holy month, next scheduled for mid-February to mid-March 2026, and offers a unique insight into the islanders' culture. Communities come together to reflect and share special prayers in the day, then break fast together in the evenings. The local islands are quieter during Ramadan, with reduced business hours.

Most tourist resorts continue unaffected, though it's respectful to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during sunlight hours. Loud music and entertainment may also be toned down.

Should I choose an overwater villa or a beach villa?

Many Maldives package holidays offer you the choice of beach or overwater accommodation, the latter standing on stilts above the sea and connected to land by a jetty.

Water villas offer direct ocean access for keen swimmers and a more unique, picture-book Maldives experience that's ideal for couples. Beach villas, on the other hand, can be more suitable for families with young children who want to be closer to resort facilities. They're often lower in cost, too, if you're looking for cheap Maldives holidays.

What wildlife is there in the Maldives?

With its flat, small islands surrounded by water, marine life is the main attraction here. You'll be surrounded by over 1,100 species of fish, including the clownfish made famous by Finding Nemo, plus hawksbill and leatherback turtles and over 21 species of whales and dolphins. On dry land and in the sky, look out for geckos, lizards and birdlife.

Which destinations can I add to a Maldives holiday package?

Our Maldives multicentre holidays are a great way to mix things up and see more of the world. Popular island getaway options include Sri Lanka and Thailand, while Middle Eastern destinations like Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman are also easy to get to.

Can you fly direct to the Maldives?

You can currently find direct flights from the UK to the Maldives from London Heathrow Airport. British Airways and Virgin Atlantic both operate direct flights all year round.

How long does it take to fly to the Maldives?

A direct flight from London Heathrow to Malé in the Maldives takes approximately 10 to 11 hours. Flights from other destinations with a connecting flight are available.

What are the passport requirements for the Maldives?

British passports must have an expiry date at least one month after the date of your arrival. Damaged passports may not be accepted as a valid travel document.*

Do I need a visa for the Maldives?

Visitors to the Maldives are issued a 30-day tourist visa for free.*

Do I need vaccinations for a Maldives holiday?

TravelHealthPro, set up by the Department of Health, advises being up to date with routine vaccinations for life in the UK, and recommends a tetanus vaccination for most travellers. If you have any questions or concerns before travelling, it's best to speak to your healthcare provider.

Do I need to complete a Traveller Declaration form?

Yes – all travellers need to fill out the Traveller Declaration form within 96 hours of arrival.

Is there a tourist tax?

Yes – you're charged $6 per day when staying in hotels on Maldives holidays, or $3 per day in guesthouses with 50 or fewer rooms.

How do hotel transfers work on Maldives holidays?

Transfers are part of the fun of a Maldives holiday! When you arrive at Male International Airport, you'll travel to whichever island your hotel is on by domestic aircraft, seaplane or speedboat. After that, you can sit back and relax.

Keep in mind that bad weather can impact travel plans, while seaplanes can only run until 3pm – after which you'll need to stay in a hotel on the airport's island of Malé.

*Please note that it is your responsibility to check for any changes to entry requirements, and ensure all of your documents are valid for travel

What language is spoken in the Maldives?

The national language of the Maldives is Dhivehi.

What are some basic local phrases to use?

You'll get by easily speaking English in the Maldives, but using a few local phrases will make you popular. Basics to learn include:

• Hello – assalaamu alaikum
• Goodbye – dhanee
• Good morning – ba'ajjeveri hendhuneh
• Good evening – ba'ajjeveri haveereh
• Yes – aan
• No – noon
• Thank you – shukuriyaa

Can you travel between islands in the Maldives?

Yes, island-hopping in the Maldives is an option for those holidaying in the Indian Ocean! You can travel between islands by seaplane, ferry, speedboat, luxury yacht or a local dhoni boat.

What is the weather in the Maldives?

The Maldives has a tropical climate, so it enjoys hot weather all year round. There are distinct dry and wet seasons, with the time between December and April experiencing the least amount of rain and the longest sunny days. The monsoon season falls between May and November.

Is the Maldives safe to visit?

Maldives resort islands and hotels are generally safe. As with any other country, it’s important to make sure you don’t leave your belongings unattended.

What's the tipping culture?

You don't often need to tip when dining out as there's usually a 10% service charge already included in bills – though it's still a kind gesture if service is particularly good. You can also leave small tips for hotel staff such as cleaners and butlers.

Can I drink alcohol in the Maldives?

Yes – though, as it's a Muslim country, there are some restrictions around alcohol. As a tourist, you can relax and drink on the licensed resort islands, but not in the capital city of Malé or local islands. It's illegal to bring alcohol with you into the country, and public intoxication is also prohibited.

Can I smoke or vape in the Maldives?

Yes and no, according to the Maldives Customs Service. Tourists are allowed up to 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco for personal use, but vapes and e-cigarettes are banned completely as of 15th November 2024.

What's the nightlife like on Maldives holidays?

Nightlife here centres around luxury resorts, where you can sip cocktails at overwater bars, dance at underwater nightclubs or enjoy themed beach parties with DJs and fire dancers. For something unique, try a moonlit snorkelling adventure, stargazing sessions or a traditional Bodu Beru drumming performance. Alternatively, for romance on your holiday to the Maldives, opt for a sunset cruise or a private candlelit dinner on the sand.

Alcohol is only served on resort islands, so plan accordingly. With experiences like this, you won't miss the city lights.

How many Maldives islands are there?

There are 1,190 islands in the Maldives.

What is the capital of the Maldives?

Malé is the capital of the Maldives. The city is found on the south coast of the North Malé Atoll.

Does the Maldives have mosquitoes?

There are mosquitoes in the Maldives, though most resorts use mist and fog to clear them from their islands, so you'll probably not notice them. It's a good idea to take insect repellent just in case.

Are Maldives plugs the same as UK plugs?

Many resorts in the Maldives have UK three-pin plug sockets, but not all do. While you can use UK appliances as the Maldives uses the same standard voltage (230V) as the UK, you may need to take a UK-Maldives plug adapter with you – they're often listed as UK-Sri Lanka or UK-India plug adapters.