Why is there no alcohol in the Maldives?

As a Muslim State where Sharia Law applies the consumption and therefore the importation and selling of alcohol is illegal in The Maldives. Sharia Law is not applied at private resorts, where alcohol is available but all local or inhabited islands, including Male are dry.



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Alcoholic drinks are only available on resort islands. Do not take any alcohol away from a resort. The export of tortoise shell and coral is forbidden. Mariners in possession of firearms must surrender them to the local authorities.

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Beer and wine
Resorts in the Maldives have permission to serve alcohol to their guests. Consequently, beer and wine are the two most frequently ordered drinks.

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What is the legal drinking age in the Maldives? There isn't a specific age being implemented at the resorts but as rule of thumb, since 18 year olds and above are considered adults, if the parents give their consent, they will be able to drink alcoholic beverages.

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For straight and LGBTQ couples alike, public displays of affection on non-resort islands such as Malé City are considered extremely offensive and may result in punitive action. This includes behavior like hand holding and kissing.

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The law prohibits smoking in most workplaces and public places. The law permits smoking in designated smoking areas in non-air-conditioned teashops, restaurants, cafés and other food and beverage outlets. The law prohibits smoking in public transport vehicles or vessels and public transport facilities.

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What is the Maldives Dress code? As stated above, the Maldives is a conservative country with traditional Muslim values. This means that, as with many other Muslim countries, wearing revealing clothing is not acceptable. In the Maldives, it is appropriate for men to wear shorts (knee length) and t-shirts.

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Alcohol in the Maldives is expensive, this is because it is imported from outside the country with high levels of taxes. If you really want a cocktail then pay attention to when happy hour is as you can often enjoy drinks for half the price or on 2 for 1 offers.

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It is an offence to import the following items into Maldives: explosives, weapons, firearms, ammunition, pornographic material, materials deemed contrary to Islam including 'idols for worship' and bibles, pork and pork products, and alcohol. Alcoholic drinks are only available on resort islands.

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Swimming in the Maldives waters is generally considered to be safe. You can usually walk on the seabed for about 20 metres – where most islands have shallow waters around them. Apart from extreme water excursions, you can always go for a casual swim in the warm water that will relax your body immediately.

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Public display of affection (PDA) is not illegal but is frowned upon in the Maldives. Especially in local places with fewer tourists; it's ideal to always maintain a decent distance between one another. Due to the Maldives being a Muslim country, acting intimately in public places may make the locals uncomfortable.

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Yes, unmarried couples are allowed in the Maldives. If you're a tourist visiting the archipelago with your partner, there won't be an issue. Maldives is a famous honeymoon destination amongst travellers, but that doesn't mean you have to be legally wedded to share a room or enjoy a vacation in the country.

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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 travel to Malé, the capital of the Republic of Maldives, you should dress modestly. If you want to visit some of the historic religious spots, a casual head cover might be in order. Because of the country's strict Islamic beliefs, tourists are expected to respect and obey Islamic traditions while on the island.

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How much is a bottle of water in the Maldives? Maafushi is a local island, so every thing in Maafushi is not expensive. About USD$1-2 for 1L bottled water.

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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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