Maldives

Located southwest of Sri Lanka and India, the Maldives spans roughly 298 km² of land — though its maritime territory covers around 900,000 km². Malé is the capital and most densely populated island. Dhivehi is the official language, and the Maldivian rufiyaa is the currency. Islam is central to daily life and culture, shaping social customs, architecture, and the rhythm of the week across all inhabited islands.

Most nationalities receive a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival, provided travellers hold a valid passport, confirmed onward travel, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds. Extensions are possible in-country. The Maldives does not currently operate a named eVisa portal, though entry conditions are managed by the Department of Immigration. Checking your government's travel advisory before departure is advisable.

The UNESCO-listed Old Friday Mosque in Malé, built from coral stone in 1658, is among the oldest in the region. The Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve draws snorkellers to its manta ray and whale shark gatherings at Hanifaru Bay. The Underwater Cabinet Meeting site near Girifushi commemorates a 2009 climate statement. Vaadhoo Island is known for its bioluminescent plankton that illuminates the shoreline at night. The National Museum in Malé houses pre-Islamic artefacts and royal regalia.

The Maldives has a tropical monsoon climate with consistently warm temperatures ranging from around 25 °C to 31 °C year-round. The dry northeast monsoon season from November to April is generally considered the best time to visit, offering calmer seas and lower humidity. The southwest monsoon from May to October brings heavier rainfall and rougher swells, though diving conditions in some atolls can remain favourable. Light, breathable clothing is sufficient year-round; a waterproof layer is useful during the wet season.

• The lowest-lying nation on Earth by average elevation.
• First country to hold an underwater cabinet meeting.
• Over 99% of Maldivian territory is ocean.
• Coral fishing was banned to protect reef ecosystems.
• The Maldives has no rivers or permanent streams.

• immigration.gov.mv — Maldives Immigration, for visa and entry requirements
• tourism.gov.mv — Ministry of Tourism, official national tourism information
• met.gov.mv — Maldives Meteorological Service, weather and climate data
• maldivesairports.com — Maldives Airports Company, gateway airport information