About Maldives

About - Maldives

Escape into infinite azure waters, pristine white sandy
beaches, and a diverse culture

Maldives history

The indigenous people of the Maldives are thought to be descended from different groups of ethnicity who migrated to the islands in ancient times. These include settlers from the shores of southern India and western Sri Lanka as well as some migrants from more northern regions of India. The language of the Maldivians is Dhivehi and the religion is Islam.

Maldivian oceans are home to over 2000 diverse
species of marine life ranging from healthy
populations of dolphins, sea turtles, manta rays
and whale sharks. Though a vast majority of the
country is fluent in English, Dhivehi, the native
language unique to us with various dialects, is
the mother tongue of the Maldivians. The tourism
industry which began in 1972 now boasts over
160 resorts, 3 yacht marinas, 11 hotels, 150
liveaboards, and almost 650 guesthouses. Each
accommodation option comes with its own unique
features. Experience the serenity and excitement
in the Maldives while you explore and take in
everything the alluring islands have to offer.

Geography & Weather

The Maldives enjoys warm and sunny weather around the year. The monsoon season surprises you with gentle rain showers from May to October, but you can expect temperatures between a balmy 26- and 32-degrees Celsius year-round. Maldivian seas are warm and clear throughout the year too!

Atolls in Maldives

The Maldives comprises 26 atolls divided into 20 administrative divisions.
All atolls in the Maldives have tourist establishments which welcome visitors for experiences unique to the region.

Haa Alifu Atoll
Haa Dhaalu Atoll
Shaviyani Atoll
Noonu Atoll
Raa Atoll
Baa Atoll
Lhaviyani Atoll
Kaafu Atoll
Alifu Alifu Atoll
Alifu Dhaalu Atoll
Vaavu Atoll
Meemu Atoll
Faafu Atoll
Dhaalu Atoll
Thaa Atoll
Laamu Atoll
Gaafu Alifu Atoll
Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll
Gnaviyani Atoll
Seenu Atoll

Airports of Maldives

Since the Maldives is one of the most dispersed countries in the world, air travel is essential for the daily lives of locals. It is also the preferred mode of transportation for visitors to the nation.
Four international and 14 domestic airports are located along the length of the archipelago, however Velana International Airport serves as the main entry point to the Maldives. Upon arrival in the Maldives, board a plane to your chosen location. The journey is what matters, and this one will probably be the most beautiful

International

Hanimaadhoo International Airport

Maafaru International Airport

Velana International Airport

Gan International Airport

Domestic

Hoarafushi Airport

Kulhudhuffushi Airport

Funadhoo Airport

Ifuru Airport

Madivaru Airport

Dharavandhoo Airport

Villa Airport

Dhaalu Airport

Thimarafushi Airport

Kadhdhoo Airport

Kooddoo Airport

Kaadedhdhoo Airport

Maavaarulu Airport

Fuvahmulah Airport

Connect with Nature with Pristine Beaches and Marine Wonders

Experiences

Greater Malé is the central hub for domestic transportation within the Maldives, so it’s the perfect area to be if you want to take some time to think about where you feel like going today. If you’re staying at a hotel or guesthouse in the greater Malé area, take the time to explore the local lifestyle of urban Maldives. Malé is home to some of the most intricate and beautifully crafted mosques in the world. Aspiring historians can step back in time at the National Museum in Malé city and walk through centuries of an ancient seafaring civilization. It is definitely a side of the Maldives that few travellers explore.
Afterwards, relax in the humble Sultan Park – a small green oasis with winding alleyways perfect for a quick break.

Nestled in a strategic geographical location, the Maldives has long served as a vital port of call for travellers and traders from across the globe. Over centuries, these visitors brought with them their diverse cultures and culinary traditions, which gradually shaped the nation’s cuisine. While the Maldives takes great pride in its unique and authentic dishes, its culinary landscape reflects a rich fusion of flavours and cooking techniques from the Indian Ocean region. Many Maldivian dishes share similarities with the cuisines of East Asia, East Africa, Arabia, India, and Sri Lanka, often characterized by vibrant, spicy flavours.

Scholars and historians regard the Maldives as an ancient nation, with evidence suggesting it has been inhabited for more than 2,500 years. However, much of the country’s early history remains shrouded in mystery. The Maldivian people and their unique identity were shaped by centuries of interaction with diverse races and ethnicities, as well as multiple waves of colonization from the Indian subcontinent. Over time, the Maldives became a cultural crossroads, with travelers and traders crisscrossing the Indian Ocean and leaving their mark on the islands. This rich history of exchange is reflected in the Maldives’ vibrant culture, traditions, and the varied physical traits of its people, making it a true melting pot of influences.

Maldivian arts and crafts are deeply rooted in the nation’s natural environment, reflecting a harmonious blend of creativity and tradition. The exquisite coral carvings and intricate calligraphy that adorn centuries-old mosques stand as a testament to the exceptional skill of Maldivian artisans. Similarly, the delicate patterns woven into mats by Maldivian women and the elegant designs hand-carved onto lacquered wooden pieces showcase their artistic ingenuity. These traditional crafts have been meticulously preserved and passed down through generations, remaining largely unchanged from their original forms centuries ago.

In the Maldives, we are deeply committed to exploring and advancing the three pillars of sustainability: environmental, social, and economic. While tourism drives our economy, fishing remains the nation’s lifeline, providing income for countless families and island communities. The Maldives is a global leader in sustainable pole-and-line tuna fishing, adhering strictly to one-by-one fishing methods that are both environmentally sound and ethical. Fishing is often a family endeavor, with members working together to clean, smoke, and prepare the catch for sale or consumption. Renowned worldwide for its freshness and ethical sourcing, Maldivian tuna and tuna products are celebrated for their quality and sustainability.