Maldives
Malé and the atolls
Essential facts
Currency
Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
Language
Dhivehi (English widely spoken in resorts)
Time zone
Maldives Time · UTC +5
Typical weather
Tropical at 25–31°C year-round. The dry season runs roughly November to April; May to October is wetter with more wind.
Plug type
Type D and Type G · 230V
Getting around
Transfers between the airport and resorts are by speedboat or seaplane and are arranged by the resort. Seaplanes operate in daylight only, which shapes arrival times.
Local customs
The Maldives is a Muslim country. On inhabited local islands, dress modestly and note that alcohol is not available. Resort islands operate under different rules.
Travel tips
Confirm transfer costs when booking — they are a significant part of the total and are often not in the headline price. Use reef-safe sunscreen. US dollars are widely accepted.
Entry requirements for British citizens
- Visa
- British citizens are normally granted a free 30-day visitor visa on arrival. An online traveller declaration must be submitted shortly before travel.
- Passport
- Your passport must be valid for at least one month from the date you enter.
- Return ticket
- You must show a confirmed onward or return ticket.
- Accommodation
- You must show confirmed accommodation for your stay.
- Health
- Medical facilities outside Malé are limited; evacuation may be needed. Adequate travel insurance is strongly recommended.
- Customs
- Alcohol, pork products, and religious materials for distribution cannot be imported. Alcohol brought in will be held until departure.
Always check before you travel