Travel Facts
US State Dept Travel Advisory
The US Department of State currently recommends US citizens exercise increased caution in Maldives due to terrorism. Consult its website via the link below for updates to travel advisories and statements on safety, security, local laws, and special circumstances in this country.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories.html
Passport/Visa Requirements
US citizens should make sure their passport will not expire for at least 6 months after they enter the country even if they do not intend to stay that long. They should also make sure they have at least 1 blank page in their passport for any entry stamp that will be required. A visa is not required as long as you do not stay in the country more than 30 days.
US Embassy/Consulate
US does not have an embassy in Maldives; US Ambassador to Sri Lanka and Maldives, is accredited to both countries; US citizens may call US Dept of State (202)-501-4444 for emergencies; alternate contact is the Embassy to Sri Lanka +94 (11) 249-8500; US Embassy Colombo, 210 Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka; colomboacs@state.gov; https://lk.usembassy.gov/
LGBTQIA+ Travelers
Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual (LGBTQIA+) travelers can face unique challenges when traveling abroad. Laws and attitudes in some countries may affect safety and ease of travel. Legal protections vary from country to country. Many countries do not legally recognize same-sex marriage. Approximately seventy countries consider consensual same-sex sexual relations a crime, sometimes carrying severe punishment.
https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/travelers-with-special-considerations/lgbtqi.html
Telephone Code
960
Local Emergency Phone
Ambulance: 102; Fire: 999; Police: 119
Vaccinations
The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Maldives: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, COVID-19, and influenza.
http://www.who.int/
Climate
Tropical; hot, humid; dry, northeast monsoon (November to March); rainy, southwest monsoon (June to August)
Currency (Code)
Rufiyaa (MVR)
Electricity/Voltage/Plug Type(s)
230 V / 50 Hz / plug types(s): C, D, G, J, K, L
Major Languages
Dhivehi, English
Major Religions
Sunni Muslim
Time Difference
UTC+5 (10 hours ahead of Washington, DC, during Standard Time)
Potable Water
Opt for bottled water
International Driving Permit
Suggested
Road Driving Side
Left
Tourist Destinations
National Museum; Sultan Park; Tsunami Monument; Republic Square; Rasfannu; Male Waterfront; Friday Mosque; Muleeaage Palace
Major Sports
Soccer, tennis, baseball, badminton, basketball, table tennis
Cultural Practices
Maldivians are incredibly warm, welcoming and friendly people who will go above and beyond to make your holiday truly unforgettable.
Tipping Guidelines
If staying in a hotel for a few days or more and the staff has demonstrated good service, a gratuity of $2 (USD) per day is suggested. Tipping guides $10 (USD) per day is appropriate.
Souvenirs
Hand-woven wicker and reed mats, woven baskets, shell and stone jewelry, tree-sap-carved lacquered boxes and other carved wooden items
Traditional Cuisine
Garudiya — a clear fish (typically tuna) broth
Please visit the following links to find further information about your desired destination.
World Health Organization (WHO) - To learn what vaccines and health precautions to take while visiting your destination.
US State Dept Travel Information - Overall information about foreign travel for US citizens.
To obtain an international driving permit (IDP). Only two organizations in the US issue IDPs:
American Automobile Association (AAA) and American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA)
How to get help in an emergency?
Contact the nearest US embassy or consulate, or call one of these numbers:
from the US or Canada - 1-888-407-4747 or from Overseas - +1 202-501-4444
Page last updated: Friday, September 29, 2023
