The Maldives

The Maldives is an island republic located near the equator in the Indian Ocean. A habitat for 500000 humans and 700 different species of fish. The islands are linked together in a chain. The Maldives islands are the world's most dispersed country. The country is divided into 26 zones, which are referred to as "regions" (atolls). People dwell on 200 of the 1200 islands that make up the archipelago. The local language is (dhivehi), and the currency is (Maldivian Rufiya), with a 1USD=15.42Rufiya exchange rate. An island's average population is 2000 persons. Although some islands are sparsely populated, each island is isolated from the others by the water, making transit between them a problem for both natives and visitors. The Maldives is Asia's smallest country and one of the world's lowest. Because of its low elevation above sea level, the Maldives is in risk of being submerged in the ocean if global warming continues at its current rate.



Maldives Best Videos

20 Best Beach Resorts in Maldives


Geography

The Maldives, which are located near the equator in indian ocean, have two monsoons and a remarkably clear atmosphere for the most time of the year. Summer is defined as September to May, whereas the wet monsoon is defined as June to August. The sun and moon rise and set virtually directly ahead of the Maldives, and they may be seen closer from there. Not only that, but the Maldives also offers a variety of other astronomical experiences, such as seeing four planets with the naked eye, experiencing low and high tides four times in a 24-hour period, and much more.

Capital City

Malé is the capital and most populated city of the Maldives Republic. It is the world's fifth most densely inhabited city, with a population of 300,000 people and an area of 8.30 square kilometers. Male city is situated on the southernmost tip of the North Malé Atoll (Kaafu Atoll). The city is divided into four administrative islands: a center island, an airport island, and four smaller islands that are managed by the Malé City Council. Male city is connected to the airport and Hulhumale through a bridge in 2018

The middle island is densely populated, with the built-up region occupying almost the whole landmass. The capital city is home to slightly less than a third of the country's population. Because it is the administrative and bureaucratic center of the country, many Maldivians and foreign workers living in other regions of the country find themselves on the island for brief periods of time. In 1988, the Japanese government provided a free donation of concrete sheets and large stones to defend capital Male city. This was done to safeguard the island from ocean current-induced soil erosion.

Maldives Resorts

Maldives resorts are private islands that were created with tourism in mind. The bulk of these beach island resorts are owned and operated by a single entity. One of the most notable differences between these resorts and local islands is that guests are authorized to consume alcoholic beverages, as well as access to bikini beaches, both of which are restricted on local islands. Aside from that, a number of resorts provide massage spas, parties, and DJs, none of which are available on the local islands. 

The Maldives began tourism in 1972 with just one island and a few rooms, but today we have more than 157 resorts, many of which are operated by well-known international brands. The plan was to run tourist resorts away from the neighborhood. Tourists were not allowed to stay on local islands until 2010, since the government was concerned that it might change the culture and traditions.

  • Anantara Dhigu

    K.Atoll

  • Maldives Island Hotels (Guest Houses)

    On local islands, the Maldives has three-star hotels. Since 2010, when local tourism was introduced in the Maldives, the business has grown at a rapid pace. This is owing to the low-cost Maldives island hotels and activities available on the nearby islands. While visiting these guest rooms on nearby islands, visitors must adhere to local regulations, which prohibit the use of alcoholic beverages and the wearing of bikinis in public places. The Maldives has a total of 767 island hotels.

    Activities

    The Maldives primarily engage in water-based activities. There is only 1% of land in the Maldives, with the rest being ocean water. The average island is 2 km2 in size, and the sea separates all the islands, making it difficult for people to visit them in a short amount of time. The Maldives are also recognized for its beautiful blue sea, diverse marine life, and white sand beaches.

    There are virtually few activities in the Maldives. Yes, we understand that at a tourist site like this, there should be a diverse range of activities. Unfortunately, this is not the case; due to the islands' dispersion, traveling around the Maldives is difficult and time-consuming. That is why we do all of our activities in Male and Hulhumale. So, let's have a look at some of the things that are offered.

    Transfers

    Because the Maldives is one of the world's most dispersed countries, with only 1% land and 99 percent ocean, each island is separated by the sea, making Maldives transfers one of the most difficult aspects for visitors and inhabitants. Aircraft connect one part of the country to another, while water connects another. There are no Maldives resorts speed boat transfer service providers at the International Airport, where you may go and book one after you arrive. To avoid wasting time, all of your trips should be planned ahead of time.

    Airports

    Velana International Airport, also known as Male International Airport or Ibrahim Nasir International Airport, is the Maldives' largest and busiest airport. It connects the Maldives to all of the world's hotspots. It is currently managed by Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) and serves as the headquarters of two airline companies: Trans Maldivian Airways, which operates seaplanes, and Maldivian, the country's flag carrier.

    Glowing Planktons

    A form of plankton found in Maldives reefs has the ability to glow at night. These are mostly spotted from the sea during night travel, although the ocean current brings only a few of them to the beaches. This occurrence is well-known on the Raa atoll. However, you can see them from every island in the Maldives. All you have to do is go to the beach and sea's meeting point at night when it's dark and dig some sands with your feet; there's a 99 percent probability you'll find one or two. When you try this, please wear a sandal to protect yourself from broken glass or sharp stones that can be rarely found on the beaches.

    Maldives Beaches and Sand Banks

    The white sandy beaches of the Maldives are unique, some prefer these as magic beaches as they always move when the current changes. Today the maldives is one of the leading destinations for honeymooners because of these beaches. For good reason, many visitors come to the Maldives only to relax on the maldives beaches. The majority of island resorts have their own private sand beaches with lounge chairs and umbrellas.

    The first form of an island is sand banks. Researchers claim that all of the Maldives' islands were once little more than sand banks. Coconuts and other vegetation were delivered to our coast by the ocean current, and they began to grow to form the islands.

    Reefs and Marine Life

    The marine life of the Maldives is also one of the richest in the world. The Maldives reefs alone hold 5% of the total coral in the world. With 700 different types of species, this place is never boring for divers and swimmers.

    Cleaning Station

    The cleaning station is located in the UNESCO-protected Baa Atoll and is known as Hani Faru Bay. This is one of the few sites on the planet where ocean monsters like whale sharks and manta rays may be cleaned. What makes this location unique is that it is a service provided by nature to these critters, because the fungus grows on their bodies, and just as humans require grooming services, these creatures also have natural arrangements. Small baitfish, which are prey for these giants, offer this service. You might be wondering how this is possible, and why would these small fishes approach them if they are being hunted by them. The gigantic fishes do an agreement with the bait fishes that they will not harm them during the process. What is the benefit of this arrangement for baitfish? Do you have any ideas? The bait fishes eat the fungus, so it's a win-win situation for both parties. That is why they chose a peaceful site for this, and one of the locations is Hani Faru Bay.

    Things you should know before you travel

    The Maldives is a one-of-a-kind tourism destination that might be perplexing to first-time tourists. As a result, I will do my best to supply you with important information and to answer any of your concerns.

    First and foremost, it is a 100% Muslim country.

    It is the lowest country in the world and the smallest in Asia.

    It is also one of the most dispersed country in the world, each and every island is seperated by the sea.

    There are 20 atolls and 1192 islands in all, with estimated 500,000 people living on 200 of them.

    With 165 tourist resorts and 772 local guest houses, transportation is the biggest challenge for visitors.

    Weather and Climate in Maldives

    There are two distinct seasons in the Maldives. The rainy season with strong winds (southwest monsoon) lasts from mid-May until November. From January to March, the northeast monsoon (dry season) occurs. The months of December and April are known as monsoon transitional months.

    Temperature

    Throughout the year, the Maldives has a hot and humid environment. The presence of enormous seas and oceans surrounding the little islands helps to keep the temperature temperate. The average temperature is between 25 and 32 degrees Celsius. Seasonal temperature fluctuations are noticed throughout the year due to the effect of the monsoon. The hottest months are March and April, and they last until the start of the southwest monsoon in mid-May. The highest temperature ever recorded in the Maldives was 36.0°C, which was measured at the Kadhdhoo Meteorological Office on September 12, 1991. Similarly, the lowest temperature ever recorded in the Maldives was 18.2°C, which was recorded on December 23, 2002 at the Hanimaadhoo Meteorological Office.

    Rainfall

    The rainfall in the Maldives fluctuates between the two monsoon periods, with the southwest monsoon receiving greater rain. The graph, which displays the mean monthly rainfall observed over the north, center, and southern atolls, demonstrates these seasonal features. The quantity of annual rainfall received rises from north to south as you travel the length of the Maldives. The southern atolls receive an average of 2,218 mm of rainfall each year, while the central and northern atolls receive 1,966 and 1,779 mm, respectively. On November 24, 2015, the meteorological office in Addu City recorded the heaviest rainfall in 24 hours with 228 mm. Rainfall is usually in the form of showers and does not linger long, with sunny moments in between.

    Sunshine

    Because the Maldives is located near the equator, it receives plenty of sunlight throughout the year. This graph depicts the average monthly sunshine duration in three different parts of the country. The average sunshine hours are slightly higher during the northeast monsoon period than during the southwest monsoon period, as can be shown. The Maldives receives 10–11 hours of sunlight on average in January, February, and March, and 7–9 hours of sunlight in the other months.

    Economical Situation

    Until 1980, the Maldives was one of the top 20 world's poorest and most remote countries. Thanks to you, visitors, the country is now in a developing state after 50 years of tourism, but there are still many challenges, such as no clean water for drinking on some islands, so people collect rainwater from roofs, but thanks to the tourism GST, the government is now able to provide free medical care and education to all citizens, and we now have one of the best literacy rates in the world, with 98 percent of people able to read and write in the Maldives. Tourism and fishing are the two primary sources of revenue. However, in order to safeguard marine life, which has an impact on tourism, the government has chosen to allow just two types of fishing: pole and line fishing. Because net fishing is prohibited in the Maldives, the fishing sector remains limited.

    In 2018, the country's gdp grew at an annual rate of 8%, and 2019 at the rate of 7%. Tourism, construction, transportation and communication, and real estate are the key drivers of the economy. Because of the remarkable recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, economic growth is expected to reach 13% in 2021.

    The construction of regional and sub-regional centers, local governance autonomy, and enhanced connection across the islands are all part of the decentralization theme. Decentralization is a key component of the government's strategy for achieving equity and long-term sustainability. Local governance reform has ushered in effective decentralization by strengthening local councils in terms of economic measures, as well as authority and autonomy in policy formulation.

    Relegion and Culture

    The Maldives was a Buddhist kingdom until the 11th century, and Berber/Maghrebi interest in the region was shown in Ibn Battutah's tenure there in the 1340s. According to a well-known Moroccan traveller, a Berber from North Morocco named Abu Barakat Yusuf the Berber was credited with establishing Islam on the islands after apparently persuading the local king after subduing him.

    The Maldives is a unique place in the Indian Ocean, a lovely slice of paradise. The Maldives' culture is highly influenced by Indian, Sri Lankan, Malaysian, Arab, Persian, Indonesian, and even African elements, and is rich in culture and tradition. Maldivians are very kind, hospitable, and pleasant people who will go out of their way to ensure that your vacation is absolutely wonderful.

    Dress

    Maldivians, who are predominantly Muslim, are conservative and dress in traditional attire. Females wear a traditional libaas, a long dress with gold and silver thread, while males wear a sarong and white cotton shirt. Guests must likewise be fully dressed when swimming on the mainland's beaches, unless they are at a certified bikini beach.

    Food

    The Maldives' economy is driven by the fishing industry, which comes in second after tourism. You may anticipate to eat a lot of fresh tuna, snapper, and lobster at your resort, as well as a variety of international cuisines. All-inclusive vacation packages are available at several resort islands. Traditional Maldivian cuisine is hot and spicy, with a variety of curries, soups, and rice-based dishes. Mangoes, yams, and coconuts.

    Music & Dance

    Music and dance are an important aspect of Maldivian culture, and they have been highly impacted by their neighbours. The "Bodu Beru" is one of the most well-known Maldivian performances. Large groups of 15 to 20 men execute the dance, which includes a variety of drummers, dancers, and vocalists. Many resorts host regular cultural performances to keep their guests entertained, so keep an eye out.

    Astronomical Observations

    maldives astronomy
    maldives luna
    maldives fullmoon

    The lovely sea, coral beaches, and breathtaking sunsets are well-known in this piece of paradise, providing us with never-ending emotions. However, we should keep in mind that every sunset unveils a wonderful sky free of light pollution and full of treasures that we cannot see from our latitudes.

    Equator

    The Sun's Rotation You may see the sun rising and setting practically vertically near the equator. The course of the Sun in Europe is a line inclined at roughly 45 degrees above the horizon, as seen in the diagram below. The apparent velocity of the Sun at the equator, on the other hand, is perpendicular to the horizon.

    Tides

    You can see how the tides get 50 minutes later every day. Furthermore, the difference between high and low tide fluctuates during a two-week period (spring and neap tides). Tides, as we all know, are periodic variations in the sea level. Two high tides and two low tides occur every day, separated by around 12 hours.

    The Moon

    The Moon, like the Sun and all of the stars, rises and sets vertically in the Maldives. The result is a strange effect in which the "horns" face upwards or downwards. We'll see... in brief, the Moon will be turned sideways. The moon's circular dark patches on its surface, which were once referred to as oceans, may already be seen with the naked eye. In the days leading up to the New Moon, when you can only see a thin crescent, you can notice a very nice effect. In fact, the air in the Maldives is so clear that the phenomenon can be seen for several days.

    Planets

    Wanderers (planètes) were the name given to those lights that resembled stars but were not set in the constellations by the ancient Greeks. Five planets can be seen with the naked eye; the other two were discovered with telescopes in contemporary times. A planet is easy to spot in the sky because its light is always consistent. Rather, the light from the stars twinkles. the planetc can be seen are (Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Urenus and Saturn )

    The Green Rays

    The Sun is a reddish placid figure towards the horizon, distorted into an oval by the atmosphere. The green ray is a stunning phenomena that can be seen when the sky is particularly clear. The sun's final rays will appear deep green; how amusing it will be to behold the green rays. The Earth's atmosphere, which not only distorts the shape of the Sun but also has the ability to deconstruct it, is the cause of this phenomenon.

    The International Space Station (ISS)

    It is possible to see an extremely bright light in the sky, gently traveling over the constellations, in the hour following sunset or before dawn. It isn't a plane, though: it doesn't flash and stays a dot when observed through binoculars. This thing sometimes turns redder until it vanishes, as if engulfed by a shadow. So, you just saw the International Space Station

    The Glowing Beaches

    This glow in the dark effect is caused by a natural phenomenon known as ‘Bioluminescence,' which occurs when light is released or created by a living thing. Furthermore, the water is huge, enigmatic, and teeming with undiscovered creatures; it is thought that some aquatic animals are capable of producing light. As a result, the light that is created at Maldive island Beachs are due to this. The most famous island for glowing beach R.Vaadhoo.

    The Cleaning Station

    Cleaning stations are areas on the reef where cleaning fish or shrimp can be found. Bacteria, parasites, and dead skin are picked off the skin, scales, gills, and even the mouths of fish by these little fish and shrimp. Cleaner fish are striped, colorful Wrasse family fish that are small (about 5 cm in length). Cleaning the fish is a win-win situation: the fish gets cleaned, and the cleaners get paid.

    Cleaner shrimp wave their antennae at passing fish to promote their services, and cleaner fish conduct a short dance to show that they are available for cleaning. Because some of these small fishes are bait (food) for the big fishes, both sides agree not to hurt each other throughout this service.

    People and Community

    The Maldives is a completely Muslim country, and the residents are quite courteous and accommodating to visitors. The community recognizes the hardships and struggles they had as a result of their lack of income in early days, as well as the necessity of tourism for the country's future. Because of your visits that resulted in significant advances in the country's growth, we implore you to choose us as your Maldives tour guide to plan your vacation in the Maldive islands. Because we are one of the few local tour companies. we are aware of the challenges that both the country and tourists face, such as transportation, environmental cleanliness, global warming effects on the beautiful coral reefs and islands, fresh drinking water, local sports and activities, and so on. As a local company, we want to make a difference and try to do something about it.

    History

    The Maldives is thought to have originated as a hotspot some 68 million years ago, spawning the Deccan Traps in India. Coral reefs began to build on Pleistocene foundations as early as 10,000 years ago.

    People from Sri Lanka emigrated to the Maldives, according to the Mahvasa (300 BCE) are belived to be the first settlers. Historians believe that there may have been people living in the Maldives during the Indus Valley Civilisation based on the presence of cowrie shells (3300-1300 BCE).

    According to historical facts and folklore, the Maldives are over 2,500 years old. Gujaratis, who arrived in Sri Lanka around 500 BCE and settled there, were likely the first immigrants in the Maldives. The methods of boat construction and silver punch-marked coins show evidence of cultural influence from North India.

    The early Maldivians left no archaeological items behind. Their structures were most likely made of wood, palm fronds, and other perishable materials that would have swiftly deteriorated in the tropical climate's salt and wind. Furthermore, chiefs or headmen did not live in or necessitate the construction of massive temples or compounds, nor did their religion demand the construction of large temples or compounds.

    Health Care

    The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA), established on August 27, 2008 under the National Social Health Insurance Act, is responsible for administering the National Social Health Insurance Scheme and implementing social protection programs approved by the Maldives government. Under the Social Protections Act, the NSPA is also in charge of regulating and implementing Social Protection programs.

    Thanks to you visitors, with starting the Toursim GST tax, the goverment is abale to provide free medical for the citixens of the Maldives. The Husnuvaa Aasandha national health insurance system is managed by Aasandha Enterprise Limited, a state-owned company. Aasandha, which was founded in 2011, administers and oversees the national health insurance plan, ensuring that Maldivians have access to high-quality, reliable health care.

    NSPA financial assistance programs:

    Single Parent Program

    Foster Parent Program

    Disability Program

    Fishermen’s Income Assurance Scheme

    Medical Welfare

    Husnuvaa Aasandha

    Food Subsidy Program

    Telecommunication

    ooredoo-maldives
    dhiraagu-maldives

    The Maldives' only network providers are Dhiraagu and Ooreddoo. Both companies offer 4G mobile networks in many parts of the country, but some areas along the coast are not serviced. Almost all hotels and resorts in the Maldives have wifi networks, and cable television is available on several islands.

    To purchase a SIM card, go to these service providers' store near the arrival gate at the airport. When purchasing a SIM card, you must request an extra data plan; otherwise, data consumption will be deducted from your phone balance, which is highly costly.

    On October 1, 1988, Dhiraagu (Dhivehi Raajjeyge Gulhun Pvt Ltd) received the first Telecommunications License. Dhiraagu was the Maldives' first telephone and mobile phone operator. Since the first telecommunications license was obtained in 1988, two more licenses have been issued.

    Focus was granted a license as the second Internet Service Provider on May 22, 2003. (ISP).

    Wataniya Telcom Maldives Pvt Ltd, which now operates as Ooredoo Maldives, was recently granted a license as the second mobile phone operator on February 1, 2005. Ooredoo Maldives has recently granted Internet Service Provider (ISP) status.

    Government

    The Maldives is a presidential constitutional republic in which the president wields significant power as both head of government and head of state. The president is in charge of the executive branch, and he picks a cabinet that must be approved by the Senate (Parliament). Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, the current president, was elected in 2018. The President and Members of the unicameral Majlis serve five-year terms, with atoll populations determining the overall number of members. Members of the People's Majlis, based in Malé, come from all around the country.

    Security and Police Forces

    The Maldives National Defence Force is a combined security organization tasked with defending the Maldives' security and sovereignty. Its primary mission is to meet the Maldives' internal and external security needs, including the protection of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the upkeep of peace and security. The Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Special Forces, Service Corps, Military Police, Corps of Engineers, Special Protection Group, Medical Service, Air Wing, and Fire and Rescue Service are the MNDF component branches. The Maldive islands and India have an agreement that allows them to cooperate on radar coverage.

    Maldives Emergency Contacts

    Police: +960 979-0070

    Fire: +960 118

    Ambulance: +960 102

    ADK Hospital: +960 313553

    Flight Informations: +960 332-2211

    Coast Guard: +960 191

    Language

    maldives language
    maldives letters
    maldives akuru

    Instead of the Persian and Urdu languages used in neighboring Muslim governments, Arabic has always been the primary language of governance there. The Maliki school of law, which was employed throughout most of North Africa and was the official one in the Maldives until the 17th century, was another link to North Africa.

    Dhivehi, an Indo-Aryan language closely linked to Sri Lanka's Sinhala, is the official and most widely spoken language. The eveyla akuru script, which can be seen in historical records of rulers, was the first known script used to write Dhivehi (raadhavalhi). For a long time, a script called dhives akuru was employed. Thaana is the modern script, which is written from right to left.

    The Maldives have one of the best literacy rate in the world with 98% and a large population can speak in English. English has firmly established itself in the country as a result of the country's opening to the outside world, the establishment of English as a medium of instruction at the secondary and higher levels of education, and the government's realization of the opportunities afforded by tourism.

    Shopping

    maldives-shopping
    maldives shopping street

    Retail in the Maldives is challenging due to the lack of shopping centers and the ocean separating all of the islands. The capital Male is the greatest spot to shop in the Maldives. On the streets of Male, there are many little shops, and souvenir shops are particularly popular with travelers. Most of the shops accepts credits cards and US dollars.

    To Visit Male for shopping:

    Book our Male city tour

    1. Hanifaru Bay (B atoll)

    Hanifaru Bay is a haven for snorkelers who want to see manta rays and whale sharks. The Maldives' UNESCO biosphere reserve has been declared as a Marine Protected Area. To maintain and preserve this unique natural beauty, severe laws have been put in place. The Baa Atoll Biosphere Reserve includes Hanifaru Bay, and several of the resorts in the vicinity are authorised to organise excursions for their guests. These excursions are led by qualified Tour Guides, and there are specific requirements for both boats and passengers. The guidelines are crucial in ensuring the safety of the mantas and whale sharks as people enjoy intimate encounters with them.

    To Visit Hanifaru Bay:

    You need a qualified Tour Guide with license and domestic flight to B.Dharavandhoo Airport and from Dharavandhoo to Hanifaru by a speedboat or ferry boat.

    2. Marina Maldives (Kaafu Atoll)

    CROSSROADS Maldives is the Maldives first completely integrated multi-island leisure destination. CROSSROADS Maldives is wonderfully placed among the breathtakingly unique Kaafu Atoll and Emboodhoo Lagoon, just a 15-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport and Malé, making transfers and day trips quick and easy.

    Expand your local knowledge at the Marine Discovery Centre and Maldives Discovery Centre, or visit Best Dives - Watersports and Dive Centre for thrill seekers. At the expansive and enigmatic Koimala & Maalimi's Junior Beach Club and Camp, kids can have their own playcation.

    To Visit Marina maldives from Male Airport:

    You can either book a hotel from Marina or buy a day visit ticket to Marina for just 150$ and ejoy a complimentary transfer with lunch and some disocunt on outlets.

    3. Utheemu Ganduvaru (HA.Utheemu)

    Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu, one of the most respected heroes in Maldivian ancient history, was born and raised in Utheemu Ganduvaru. Utheemu Ganduvaru is a small island off the coast of Utheemu in the Haa Alifu Atoll.

    The Portuguese invaded the Maldives in 1558, killing the Sultan in battle and establishing Portuguese control. Mohamed Thakurufaanu, together with his brothers Ali and Hassan, flew to Minicoy to prepare for their fight to liberate the Maldives from Portuguese dominion. The boat they built for their campaign, Kalhuohfummi, was critical to their success. For eight years, a band of fighters led by Mohamed Thakurufaanu and his brothers opposed the Portuguese. To avoid arrest, they would land on various islands in the dead of night and fight the pirates.

    To Visit Utheemu From Male Airport:

    A domestic flight to HD.Hanimaadhoo airport and a speedboat from Hanimadhoo to Utheemu is required.

    4. Old Friday Mosque (Male city)

    The Malé Friday Mosque, also known as the Old Friday Mosque or Malé Hukuru Miskiy, is one of the city's oldest and most magnificent mosques. Because of their suitability, coral boulders of the species Porites, abundant across the archipelago, are the basic materials utilized for building of this and other mosques in the country. When wet, the coral is soft and easy to cut to size, but when dried, it forms solid building blocks. The old roof got damaged and replaced with modern roof. In 2008, the mosque was tentatively included to the UNESCO World Heritage heritage list as one of the few remaining instances of sea-culture architecture.

    5. Fish Market (Male city)

    The Malé Fish Market is the place to go if you want to see how Maldivians live their lives. This is where the country's most vital sector, fishing, has its commercial heart. Ifishermen from all over the country come here to unload their daily catch right on the market's edge. The most popular fish among the natives is tuna, although you may also find other varieties. Observing the staff filet and clean the fish is said to be impressive by visitors. If you have the means to create a meal, you may even pick up some fresh fish for dinner.

    The fishermen's jetty, located in front of the Market, is where they discard their fish waste, as this is a daily practice that attracts many fish and stingrays.

    6. Banana Reef (kaafu Atoll)

    The dive sites in the Maldives are among the best in the world, with abundant marine life and beautiful coral, as well as good visibility. Banana Reef, located in the North Male Atoll and named after its curved shape, was one of the first dive sites in the Maldives. Cliffs and overhangs define the protected marine region, which safeguard the barracudas, snappers, and groupers below. Even those swimming near the surface will be able to observe schools of fish, sharks, and manta rays because the reef is designed up for snorkeling.

    A priavte boat can be hired from Male City to visit the reef

    7. Mifco (LH.Atoll & GA.Atoll)

    7.1. Felivaru Fisheries Complex
    fish-factory-maldives

    Felivaru Cannery was the Maldives' first industrial processing facility, which opened in 1977. MDV 001, an EU-approved cannery, supplies private-label packaging to customers' specifications. Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury's, and Migros are among the well-known companies that have signed contracts with Felivaru Cannery. All raw materials are bought directly from local fisherman and are caught using the pole and line method of fishing. Fresh catch is available all year, and the cannery has a raw material storage capacity of around 5000 MT.

    7.2. Koodoo Fisheries Complex

    KFC first opened its doors in 1996 in the country's south. The company's main cold storage facility, KFC, has the capacity to freeze 350 MT in 24 hours and has a cold storage capacity of 2,000. This facility, together with an adjacent berth that can accommodate boats up to 2500 DWT, has aided the development of the region's fisheries, accounting for the lion's share of rises in frozen fish fishery exports.

    8. Vaadoo Island (Raa Atoll)

    Raa Atoll is a well-known atoll in the Maldives, home to some of the top resorts and must-see attractions. The Vaadhoo Island is one of the islands that make up this atoll. This magnificent island may only have 500 residents, but the natural phenomena that occurs here, known as the Sea of Stars, attracts visitors from all over the world and takes them right to the shores of Vaadhoo, where they are treated to one of the most remarkable spectacles.

    From July to February, visitors have had the best chance witnessing the blue glow, especially under a new moon, when the obscurity of the sky serves to amplify the light. A beautiful green-blue glow develops as waves break on the sandy shore or if you go barefoot into damp sand.

    The mesmerizing waters of Vaadhoo Island are known as the Sea of Stars phenomena when they flash a vivid blue under the moonlight. The sea is believed to sparkle and light in such a way that it reflects the stars that the waves wash against. This phenomena arises as a result of numerous phytoplankton that can be found in the sea and glow at night. The light emitted in the sea is almost mesmerizing, despite the fact that this phenomena is more of a self-preservation gesture for the fish.

    9. Ozen Underwater Restaurant (Kaafu Atoll)

    Arrange a day visit to Ozen Maadhoo island's six meters beneath the Indian Ocean restaurant, exquisite fine dining with a degustation menu showcasing innovative modern seafood cuisine and great wine pairings. M6m (Minus Six Meters), the best underwater restaurant in the Maldives, is the crown gem of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO's exquisite dining experiences.

    So that adults can fully enjoy the romantic dining experience at the underwater restaurant near Malé, children are only allowed on special days. In the meantime, while parents enjoy their M6m visit, an exciting programme with delicious snacks is offered for children at the kids’ club.

    10. Maafushi Island (Kaafu Atoll)

    Maafushi was one of the first islands in the Maldives to open for local tourism in 2010, and it is now one of the largest and most popular local islands in the country. It's about 27 kilometers from Male in the South Male Atoll. The shape of the island is elongated. The island has a total population of  estimated 2600 people. It's incredible that so many people can live on such a little bit of land, but unlike other islands, you won't feel suffocated.

    By visiting Maafushi, you can get a taste of Maldivian island life while simultaneously saving money on hotels and activities. When you're on the island, it's simple to find your bearings. Watersports are mainly reserved for the North beach, with bikini beach constituting a small fraction of it. Along the beach, there are numerous hotels and water sports centers. The south beach has a more relaxed atmosphere.

    List of Maldives Islands

    North Thiladhunmathi (HA) (Haa Alif Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    South Thiladhunmathi (HDh) (Haa Dhaalu Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    North Miladhunmadulu (Funadhuffaaru) (Sh) (Shaviyani Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    South Miladhunmadulu (Velivandhippolhu) (N) (Noonu Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    North Maalhosmadulu (R) (Raa Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    South Maalhosmadulu (B) (Baa Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    Faadhippolhu (Lh) (Lhaviyani Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    Male' (K) AtollKaafu Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    Alif Alif Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    South Ari Atoll (ADh) (Alif Dhaal Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    Felidhu Atoll (Vaavu Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    Mulakatholhu (Meemu Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    North Nilandhe Atoll (Faafu Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    South Nilandhe Atoll (D) (Dhaalu Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    Kolhumadulu (Thaa Atoll)>

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    Hadhdhunmathi (L) (Laamu Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    North Huvadhu Atoll (Gaafu Alif Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    South Huvadhu Atoll (GDh) (Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands

    Fuvahmulah (Gn) (Gnaviyani Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Addu Atoll (Seenu Atoll)

    Inhabited Islands

    Uninhabited Islands