The Maldives is a tropical paradise of 1,190 coral islands scattered across the Indian Ocean, renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and luxurious overwater villas. This island nation offers world-class diving, pristine white-sand beaches, and unparalleled marine biodiversity including manta rays, whale sharks, and bioluminescent plankton.
The Maldives is considered one of the safest tourist destinations in Asia with very low violent crime rates and exceptional security on resort islands. The main risks are natural hazards (ocean currents, marine life) and legal risks from misunderstanding Islamic laws that apply on local islands.
Current safety advisory
Low
Exercise normal precautions. Some regional advisories note risk of civil unrest in Male city and recommend staying informed of local news. Resort islands are considered extremely safe.
Last updated: 2025-01
Official advisories
Guidance from national travel-advisory services.
Level 1 - Exercise Normal Precautions
Exercise normal precautions. Some areas have increased risk. Check for updates on protest activity in Male.
Tier 1 - Generally Safe
Most visits to the Maldives are trouble-free. Be aware of local Islamic laws which apply on inhabited islands.
Essential safety tips
Practical advice that applies everywhere.
Stay aware of surroundings at tourist locations, transportation hubs, and markets
Be cautious when swimming - strong tidal currents can drag swimmers from shore
Do not leave valuables unattended on beaches or in unlocked hotel rooms
Avoid bringing vaping devices - illegal as of November 2024 with confiscation and fines
Respect local customs - public practice of non-Islamic religions is banned
Monitor weather during April-May and October-November for tropical storms
Check with marine biologists before swimming during jellyfish season
Register with your country's embassy or consulate in Male upon arrival; the nearest embassies for many nations are in Colombo or New Delhi
Respect Islamic laws: alcohol is only permitted on resort islands and aboard liveaboards - possession on local islands is illegal and can result in arrest
Watch for strong currents when snorkeling or swimming; currents can shift rapidly around channels between atolls - always snorkel with a guide in unfamiliar waters
Common scams to avoid
Recognise and sidestep tourist-targeted scams.
Resort upselling on arrival
Taxi or boat drivers at the airport claim your booked guesthouse is 'closed' or 'dirty' and offer to take you to a better place earning them commission.
How to avoid: Pre-book transfers directly with your accommodation; confirm bookings before travel; decline unsolicited recommendations
Unofficial exchange services
Unofficial currency exchangers near Male ferry terminal offer slightly better rates but use trick counting or counterfeit notes.
How to avoid: Use official BML bank ATMs or licensed exchange offices; count notes carefully before leaving
Overpriced excursion booking
Some Male tour operators quote inflated prices for island hopping, whale shark, and dolphin tours compared to identical trips booked through Maafushi guesthouses.
How to avoid: Compare prices at multiple operators; guesthouse-organized tours on Maafushi typically 30-40% cheaper than Male city operators
Unmarked taxi overcharging
Taxis in Male have no meters; unlicensed drivers may quote double the normal fare especially late at night.
How to avoid: Agree fare before getting in; typical Male city ride is 20-30 MVR ($1.30-2); Hulhumale flat rate 75 MVR ($5)
Health considerations
Staying healthy on your trip.
- Vaccinations
- No mandatory vaccinations for most travelers. Recommended: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Tetanus. Consult doctor 4-6 weeks before travel. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from endemic countries.
- Water
- Not safe to drink. Bottled water widely available and affordable ($0.50-2 per bottle). Resorts provide filtered water. Avoid ice in local establishments unless from purified water.
- Food
- Sunburn, dehydration, seasickness, jellyfish stings, coral cuts, food poisoning. Dengue fever present - use mosquito repellent. No malaria risk.
- Facilities
Safety for specific travellers
Tailored advice for different groups.
Solo travellers
Solo travel in Maldives is very safe on resort islands and local islands. Male city is safe to walk at any hour. Join group excursions for snorkeling and diving - never swim alone in open water due to currents. Local island communities are welcoming to solo travelers.
Female travellers
Female solo travelers are generally safe. Dress modestly on local islands (cover shoulders and knees) to avoid unwanted attention and comply with local law. Resort islands have complete freedom of dress. Avoid walking alone after midnight in Male back streets. Islamic cultural respect is key to comfortable experiences.
Families
Maldives is very family-friendly. Resort islands have exceptional safety standards with lifeguards, kids clubs, and calm lagoons. Teach children about coral reef safety and no-touch rules. Pack first aid for coral cuts. Calm lagoon resorts are ideal for young children learning to swim.
LGBTQ+ travellers
Same-sex relationships are illegal in the Maldives under Islamic law and can result in serious legal consequences including imprisonment and flogging under Sharia law as interpreted locally. Public displays of same-sex affection are strictly prohibited. LGBTQ+ travelers must exercise extreme discretion or consider alternative destinations. Resort islands have more privacy but local laws still apply.
Emergency contacts
Numbers to know before you go.
- Police
- 119
- Medical
- 102
- Embassy
- Tourist Police