The Republic of Maldives comprises almost 1,200 islands and islets, located in and around 26 atolls. Asia's smallest country both in terms of population and land area, it also has the world's lowest national high point, at 2.3 metres. Since gaining its independence from Britain in 1965, this unique country has flourished as one of the world's leading luxury travel destinations. The capital, Malé, receives comparatively few visitors, but is well worth a visit if you have time between connecting flights to or from Malé International Airport on neighbouring Hulhulé Island.Plug TypeLanguageDhivehi, EnglishPopulation360,000Time ZoneGMT + 5 hoursMeasuresMetric SystemVoltage230/240 voltsMobile PhonesGSM 900 / 1800No pre-arrival visa is required to enter the Republic of Maldives.
A 30-day visa is issued free on arrival for all nationalities, provided visitors are in possession of a valid passport, a valid ticket out of the country and enough funds to cover the expenses for duration of their stay in Maldives (US$100 + $50 dollars per day or a confirmation of reservation in a Tourist Resort or a Hotel).
The official website of the Maldives ImmigrationThe national currency in Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa.Here are the most recent exchange rates for some common currencies.MRF 1.00 equals:10% service charge, 6% Goods and Services Tax and USD 8 bed tax per person per night regardless of age.
Effective 1 January 2012, the Government of Maldives will increase its Goods and Services Tax (GST) to 6%, to be levied on all services including accommodation, air transfers, food and beverage, activities and other services.
Tipping is at the discretion of travellers.Bank HoursSunday to Thursday 7.30am – 2.30pm.Office HoursSunday to Thursday 7.30am – 2.30pm (public), 9am – 5pm (private).Shop HoursAs a general guideline:
9am – 12 noon; 2pm – 6.30pm; 8pm – 10pm (2pm to 6.30pm on Fridays).The resort has its own in-house doctor and decompression chamber in case of diving sicknesses. In case of emergencies that cannot be treated at the resort, Hithadoo Regional Hospital in Addu Atoll is equipped to provide medical treatment. The Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) in Malé is the biggest hospital in the country and provides sophisticated medical care. ADK Hospital is the biggest private healthcare facility and has high medical standards.Dress code is generally casual. T-shirts and cotton clothing are most suitable. In Malé, the capital, and on other inhabited islands, it is recommended that women wear modest clothing.The Maldives benefits from a tropical climate with average daytime temperatures of 28C (82F) and above throughout the year. Despite a close proximity to the equator, humidity is low due to cooling sea breezes.