Maldives Holidays
Overwater villas, white sand, and reefs you can snorkel from your doorstep. Plan your Maldives beach holiday with flights, hotels, and travel tips.
Today
Weather in Maldives
Thu
Fri
Sat
SPF level in Maldives
Autumn
SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Winter
SPF 50+
Entry requirements for Maldives
You will get a 30-day visa on arrival if you enter Maldives as a tourist.
Your passport must have an expiry date at least one month after your arrival date.
You must complete a traveller declaration form (IMUGA) within 96 hours before your flight arrives.
Make sure your passport is not damaged or you may be stopped by immigration.
You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty when entering.
Good to know:
You must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk.
It is illegal to bring in anything deemed contrary to Islam, including idols for worship, bibles, pork and pork products, and alcohol.
Safety in Maldives
Maldives is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Keep valuables with you; do not leave items on beaches or in unlocked hotel rooms.
Alcohol is only available on resort islands; taking it elsewhere can lead to arrest and deportation.
Do not carry illegal drugs, including cannabis; even small quantities can bring severe penalties.
Outside resorts, cover shoulders, arms and upper legs, and avoid short or tight shorts.
Swim only in supervised safe areas, heed flags, and ask resort staff about currents.
Bonus tips:
Never sunbathe topless or practise nudism, including on resort islands.
Wear a life jacket on boat trips, especially smaller excursion boats.
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Driving in Maldives
A UK driving license is valid for up to 30 days. An international driving permit is not required.
Side of the road
Left
Motorway speed limit
N/A (no motorways)
Urban speed limit
30 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: Maldives drives on the left. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the right.
Health in Maldives
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, as medical facilities in the Maldives can be limited, especially on local islands. Check if your policy covers activities like diving and water sports.
No vaccinations required
Medical facilities in Malé and resorts are generally adequate for minor issues. Serious cases may require evacuation. There is no GHIC/EHIC agreement between the UK and the Maldives.
Cards & payments
Increasingly accepted in resorts, restaurants, and larger shops, but cash is essential for smaller establishments and local islands.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
Tipping in Maldives
Tipping isn't deeply ingrained in Maldivian culture, but it's increasingly appreciated in tourist areas for good service. It's a nice way to show your gratitude.
Restaurant
5-10% if service is not included in the bill.
Bar/Café
Rounding up the bill is appreciated; small tips for good service.
Taxi
Not expected for short rides. Rounding up is a kind gesture.
Hotel Porter
10-20 MVR per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
50-100 MVR per day, left at the end of your stay.
Tour Guide
5-10% of the tour price, depending on the quality of the service.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK mobile customers. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in the Maldives. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data.
Local SIM
10GB for 300 MVR (~£15)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Electrical in Maldives
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type D, Type G, Type L, Type J, Type K
WiFi & internet
Good in resorts and hotels, but can be limited and less reliable on local islands.
Average speed
25 Mbps
Most resorts and hotels offer Wi-Fi, often included in the room rate. Internet cafes are rare. Mobile data is a viable option using a local SIM. Speed can vary, but is generally adequate for basic browsing and communication.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
119
Ambulance
102
Fire
118
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Calling Maldives
Country code
960
To call Maldives from abroad, dial 960 followed by the local number.
UK Embassy
H. Orchid, 11th Floor, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Malé, 20057, Maldives
Phone
+960 332 2323
Website
Velana International Airport
Dharavandhoo AIrport
Kooddoo Island Airport
Gan International Airport
Hanimaadhoo Airport
Kadhdhoo Airport
Recent updates
Health
Measles has been added to the listed health risks alongside dengue.
Beaches in Maldives
No beaches listed for Maldives yet.
Frequently asked Questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.