
Atoll
Alif Dhaalu Atoll
Alif Dhaalu Atoll is one of the Maldives' administrative atolls (code ADh), comprising 10 inhabited islands. Its administrative capital is Mahibadhoo.
- Administrative code
- ADh
- Inhabited islands
- 10
About Alif Dhaalu Atoll
Welcome to Alifu Dhaalu Atoll
Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, the southern part of Ari Atoll, is a diver's paradise renowned for its spectacular marine life and luxurious resorts. This central atoll offers some of the best opportunities in the Maldives to encounter whale sharks, manta rays, and vibrant coral reefs.
With its convenient location just west of Male, Alifu Dhaalu combines easy accessibility with pristine natural beauty. The atoll features a mix of exclusive resort islands and traditional fishing villages, offering visitors both luxury and cultural experiences.
Exceptional Dive Sites in Alifu Dhaalu
One of the most reliable spots in the Maldives to encounter gentle whale sharks year-round.
Depth: 5-30m | Level: All levels | Season: Year-round
Cleaning station where majestic manta rays gather, especially from May to November.
Depth: 10-20m | Level: Beginner-Intermediate
Adventure & Relaxation Activities
Swim alongside these gentle giants in their natural habitat with expert guides.
Evening boat trips to spot playful spinner dolphins against breathtaking sunsets.
Pamper yourself with luxurious treatments in overwater spa pavilions.
Traveling to Alifu Dhaalu Atoll
Alifu Dhaalu Atoll is easily accessible from Velana International Airport (MLE):
Most luxury resorts include seaplane transfers in their packages.
Best Time to Visit Alifu Dhaalu Atoll
The ideal time to visit depends on your interests:
Visitor Experiences
Our stay at Mirihi Island Resort was absolute perfection! The house reef was incredible - we saw turtles, reef sharks, and countless colorful fish right from our villa. The whale shark snorkeling excursion was the highlight of our trip. The crew knew exactly where to find these gentle giants!
Alifu Dhaalu's diving is world-class. We did 10 dives and saw mantas at Manta Point on every dive! The visibility was excellent and marine life abundant. Constance Moofushi was luxurious but we wish there were more dining options. Would still highly recommend for divers!
Alif Dhaalu Atoll Gallery
Islands in Alif Dhaalu Atoll
- Dhangethi

Dhangethi is an inhabited island in Alif Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives.
- Dhidhdhoo

Dhidhdhoo is an inhabited island in Alif Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives.
- Dhigurah

Dhigurah is an inhabited island in Alif Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives.
- Fenfushi

Fenfushi is an inhabited island in Alif Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives.
- Hangnaameedhoo

Hangnaameedhoo is an inhabited island in Alif Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives.
- Kunburudhoo

Kunburudhoo is an inhabited island in Alif Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives.
- Maamingili
Maamingili is an inhabited island in Alif Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives.
- Mahibadhoo

Mahibadhoo is an inhabited island in Alif Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives.
- Mandhoo

Mandhoo is an inhabited island in Alif Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives.
- Omadhoo

Omadhoo is an inhabited island in Alif Dhaalu Atoll, Maldives.
Resorts in Alif Dhaalu Atoll
Private island resorts, each its own destination.
- Amaya Kuda Rah Island Resort Maldives
Kuda RahFrom $240 / night
- Angaga Island Resort & Spa Maldives
AngagaFrom $250 / night
- Conrad Maldives Rangali Island Resort Maldives
RangaliFrom $1,200 / night
- Diamond Thudufushi Maldives Resort and Spa
ThudufushiFrom $300 / night
- Lily Beach Resort & Spa Maldives Island Resort
Huvahendhoo5★From $1,100 / night
- LUX* South Ari Atoll Resorts Maldives Island
Dhidhoofinolhu5★From $600 / night
- Mirihi Island Resort Maldives
MirihiFrom $550 / night
- NOVA Maldives Island Resort
Vakarufalhi5★From $600 / night
- Outrigger Maldives Maafushivaru Resort Island
Maafushivaru5★From $900 / night
- Radisson Blu Maldives Island Resort
Huruelhi5★From $950 / night
- Sun Island Resort & Spa Maldives
Nalaguraidhoo5★From $200 / night
- Vilamendhoo Island Resort & Spa Maldives
Vilamendhoo5★From $400 / night
Dive sites in Alif Dhaalu Atoll
- Fish Head (Mushimasmingili Thila)
Thila - Kuda Rah Thila
Thila - Maaya Thila
Thila
Explore other Maldives atolls →
Destination content on this page is drawn from MTG’s own previously published Maldives guide.

