2:33 am
+5h from you
Weather in Maldives
Maldives
27°
Light drizzle
Sun
26
27
Mon
26
28
Tue
27
28
Wed
27
28
Thu
27
28
SPF level in Maldives
Recommended: SPF 50+ (extreme)
Spring
SPF 50+
Summer
SPF 50+ (extreme)
Autumn
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 50+
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Transportation in Maldives
Tipping in Maldives
Tipping is appreciated in the Maldives for good service, but not automatically expected as it is not deeply ingrained in their culture. Service charges are often included in bills, so check before tipping.
Restaurant
5-10% if service is not included. Check your bill first as a service charge of 10% is common.
Bar/Café
5-10% if you received good service and a service charge isn't already included.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare is acceptable, but not mandatory.
Hotel Porter
5-10 MVR per bag is appreciated.
Hotel Housekeeper
20-50 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.
Safety & security in Maldives
Tips for British travellers
Maldives is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Do not leave items unattended on the beach or in unlocked hotel rooms.
Avoid empty roads when on foot, particularly after dark, outside resort islands.
During Ramadan, do not eat, drink or smoke in public in the daytime outside of holiday resorts.
Alcoholic drinks are only available on resort islands, and you can be arrested for possessing or drinking alcohol outside them.
Possession of even small quantities of illegal drugs, including cannabis, carries severe penalties such as arrest and long prison sentences.
Bonus tips:
Only swim in well supervised areas, pay attention to warning signs, and avoid swimming in areas with strong currents.
Nudism and topless sunbathing are not allowed anywhere, including on resort islands.
Driving in Maldives
Side of road
left
Motorway speed limit
N/A (no motorways)
Urban speed limit
30 km/h - 50 km/h (depending on the island and zone)
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
112
Police
119
Ambulance
102
Fire
118
Save 112 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in Maldives
Voltage
230V / 50Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type D, Type G, Type L, Type J, Type K
UK adapter needed?
No
Cards & payments
Credit and debit cards are mainly accepted in resorts, major hotels, and some restaurants and shops in Malé. Acceptance is limited on local islands. Always confirm with the establishment beforehand.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +13039671096
ATMs in Maldives
ATMs are primarily available in Malé and at the airport. Availability on local islands can be limited or non-existent. It's recommended to withdraw cash in Malé before travelling to outer islands.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are available in the capital city and airport. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting local islands. Ensure your card is chip and PIN enabled.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK mobile users. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in the Maldives. Roaming charges can be high, so consider purchasing a local SIM card if you plan to use mobile data frequently.
Local SIM data package
10GB for 300 MVR (~£15)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Dhiraagu, Ooredoo Maldives
WiFi & internet
WiFi is readily available in resorts and hotels, but can be less reliable or unavailable on local islands and in some public areas. Many resorts offer free WiFi to guests.
Average speed
25 Mbps
WiFi is generally available in tourist areas, especially in resorts. However, connectivity can be variable. Purchasing a local SIM card can be a good alternative for reliable internet access.
Health & vaccinations
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, as healthcare in the Maldives can be expensive. Check that your policy covers activities you plan to participate in, such as diving or water sports. While the GHIC/EHIC card is not applicable in the Maldives, comprehensive travel insurance is essential.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Dengue fever
Consult your doctor or a travel clinic for the latest advice on recommended vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis before your trip. Dengue fever is a risk in the Maldives, so take precautions to avoid mosquito bites, such as using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and trousers, and staying in air-conditioned accommodations. Seek medical attention if you develop a fever or flu-like symptoms.
Calling Maldives
Country code
+960
To call the Maldives from the UK, dial 00 960 followed by the local number.
To call the British High Commission in Male from the UK, you would dial 00 960 332 2061.
The country code for the Maldives is 960. When calling from outside the Maldives, you will need to use the appropriate exit code for the country you are calling from, followed by 960, and then the local number.
UK Embassy in Maldives
British High Commission Male
H. Orchid, 11th Floor, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male, Republic of Maldives
Airport in Maldives
Frequently asked questions about Maldives
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.