Is there a dress code in the Maldives?

Clothing Style in the Maldives
The Maldives is a Muslim country; while bathing suits and summer clothing are tolerated on the major resort islands, you need to cover up if you're staying at a local-owned guesthouse or resort. Nudity (like topless sunbathing) is against the law.



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However, there are no strict prohibitions either. Upon arrival at the airport, you can walk, as you like. However, if you are going to visit the local islands where locals live, you should adhere to a certain dress code. Tops and short shorts will be appropriate on resort islands, but not on local islands.

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Prohibited Items It is prohibited for tourists to bring firearms, alcoholic beverages, pork products, pornography and idols of worship into the Maldives. Additionally, strict penalties apply to those attempting to bring illegal drugs into the country.

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Taking cash & cards to the Maldives The only time you are likely to need the local currency is if you are staying in a local guesthouse or if you are visiting Malé City and would like to purchase something from a local market or shop. However, US dollars are widely accepted.

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There are some other suggested precautions and preparations for traveling to the Maldives. They include: Do not wear/bring religious symbols (crosses, statues, etc.) or documents (e.g. Bible) into a Moslem country. If you plan to go jogging outside the Equator Village; best to check on proper attire suggestions.

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If you're taking lube, then it's fine to put it in your checked bag. If you're only taking hand luggage, then make sure it's 100 milliliters/3.4 ounces or under. Anything over that and you'll have to hand it over to security to dispose of — and that includes a 250-milliliter bottle that's only half-full.

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Do I need to take beach towels to Maldives? Generally speaking no since your hotel should be able to provide you with them.

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Should you tip in the Maldives at all-inclusive resorts? You don't have to, but it is customary to tip in the Maldives at all-inclusive resorts.

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In the Maldives, it is appropriate for men to wear shorts (knee length) and t-shirts. Women in particular should take care to stay covered though, so always wear over-the-shoulder longer dresses, shirts and trousers. Never wear skimpy swimwear unless it is clearly marked that it is okay to do so.

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Lightweight, loose cotton clothing is therefore advisable. Please be aware that there are different guidelines depending on whether you're staying at a resort (a hotel on a private island) or in a guesthouse (in a village in a locally inhabited island). The majority of visitors will spend most of the day in swimwear.

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The temperature doesn't drop very much at night so take your lightest weight clothes in natural, breathable fabrics such as silk, linen or cotton. Avoid synthetic fabrics as they are just too uncomfortable in the heat.

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Avoid Drinking Tap Water
Amongst the various things about Maldives that you should know, this one is most important. Water undergoes a different process in the Maldives to rid itself of all the harmful bacteria and germs. This process is known as reverse osmosis desalination.

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This is because it is a Muslim country, and you should be respectful while you're there. Here you can learn more about Maldives people. That being said, you will need to pack to dress conservatively when you leave your resort island, but you also don't have to be covered from head to toe. It's all about modesty.

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Yes, you can carry water to the Maldives. From a regulatory point of view, there are no restrictions on carrying it into the country. But you may be limited by baggage weight restrictions. Most resorts offer water bottles in the package.

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The Maldives has a non-convertible currency – Maldivian Rufiyaa – this cannot be purchased beforehand. One Rufiyaa is 100 Laari and is available in 500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5 Rufiyaa notes. The US Dollar is accepted as legal tender throughout the Maldives.

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You should plan to spend around MVR4,623 ($301) per day on your vacation in the Maldives, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average, MVR1,205 ($78) on meals for one day and MVR2,140 ($139) on local transportation.

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