Maldives Holiday Tips

Language
Dhivehi is the language spoken in all parts of the Maldives. English is widely spoken by Maldivian and visitors can easily make themselves understood getting around the capital island. In the resorts, a variety of languages are spoken by the staff including English, German, French, Italian and Japanese.

Dress Code
Dress is generally casual. T-shirts and cotton clothing are most suitable. In Male', the capital island and other inhabited islands it is recommended that women wear modest clothing without baring too much.

Health
Maldives is tropical country but the people are extremely clean. You will be safe here in Maldives, but please get advise from your doctor or health visitor regarding vaccinations.

Local Time
GMT + 5 hours

Business Hours
From Sunday to Thursday 7.30 - 14.30 in the government sector and generally from 9.00 to 5.00 in the private sector, although most offices in the private sector open for a half day on Saturday. Weekend falls on Friday and Saturday.

Customs
Maldives customs do not allow to take dogs, narcotic drugs, and pornography items etc... as they are forbidden by law. Alcohol cannot be imported without an official license, if imported without a license it should be declared at the customs and will be returned to you on departure. Wide ranges of alcoholic drinks are available in the resorts.
Narcotic Drugs are strictly prohibited; the penalty for importing drug for any purpose is life imprisonment.

Visa
No prior visas are required, a tourist visa of 30 days will be granted to all visitors with valid travel documents provided the embarkation/disembarkation cards are filled properly.

Currency and Payments
The Maldivian Currency, Rufiyaa comes in notes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100 and 500. A Rufiyaa is divided into 100 Laarees. Coins in use are 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 Laaree, one Rufiyaa and two Rufiyaa. All most all-foreign currencies and major credits cards are accepted, Amex, Visa, Master JCB Card.