Fun Facts
About
Maldives
Fun Facts about Maldives
Before converting to Islam in 1153 AD, the Maldives practiced Buddhism for over 1,400 years. Traces of this history can still be found in ancient coral stone temples and relics scattered across the islands.
Unlike most countries, the Maldives observes Friday and Saturday as the weekend. Friday is a holy day in Islam, so expect reduced business hours and fewer activities on local islands.
The capital city, Malé, is one of the world’s smallest capitals, covering just 5.8 square kilometers. Despite its size, it’s a bustling hub with colorful buildings, vibrant markets, and mosques.
The Maldives pioneered the concept of overwater villas, making it the ultimate destination for luxury travelers. These villas are often perched on stilts over turquoise lagoons, offering unparalleled ocean views and direct access to the water.
The coconut palm isn’t just a symbol of the Maldives; it’s a lifeline. Locals use every part of the tree—from its leaves for roofing to its fruit for food and oil.
The Maldives’ Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, celebrated for its exceptional biodiversity. It’s home to manta rays, whale sharks, and a myriad of coral species, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Due to rising sea levels caused by climate change, the Maldives is at risk of becoming uninhabitable. This has made it a symbol in global conversations about climate action and sustainability.
Tuna, or mas, is the star of Maldivian cuisine. From mas huni (a traditional breakfast dish) to garudhiya (a fish soup), you’ll find tuna in almost every meal.
Most Maldivian islands are so small that cars aren’t necessary. Walking, cycling, or using buggies is the primary mode of transportation on resort islands, making it an eco-friendly destination.
The Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) features stunning designs inspired by the country’s culture and marine life. Even the currency feels like a souvenir from paradise!
The Maldives is striving to become the world’s first nation fully powered by renewable energy. Solar panels and wind turbines are being widely adopted to preserve the islands for future generations.
Did you know you can send postcards from an underwater post office? Located at the luxurious Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort, this unique experience is a bucket-list item for many visitors.
On the local islands, the Maldivian New Year (Al'h'la) is celebrated with traditional music, dancing, and feasting. It’s a lesser-known but delightful cultural event to witness.
The so-called “Maldivian lobsters” you see on resort menus are actually spiny lobsters, which lack claws but are equally delicious and a must-try local delicacy.
Maldivians enjoy a traditional game called Bodu Beru, similar to dominoes. Often played during social gatherings, it’s a great way to immerse yourself in local culture.
While the Maldives is famous for luxury, it’s also a hidden gem for surfers. The islands are home to some of the world’s best waves, particularly in the South Malé and Central Atolls.
Maldivian history includes many powerful queens, known as Sultanas, who ruled the islands. They left a lasting legacy of leadership and resilience in the Maldives’ culture.
Locals refer to the natural coral formations surrounding their islands as calendar reefs because their shapes change over time, reflecting seasonal and tidal patterns.
While alcohol is freely available at resorts, it’s prohibited on local islands due to the country’s Islamic laws. Tourists should plan accordingly when visiting inhabited islands.
The Maldives boasts Maafaru International Airport, one of the smallest yet most picturesque airports in the world. It serves luxury travelers arriving by private jet.
With minimal light pollution, the Maldives offers some of the clearest stargazing opportunities in the world. Resorts often organize special star-gazing nights for guests.
The Maldivian language, Dhivehi, has its own script called Thaana. It’s one of the world’s least-known languages but is rich in history and culture.
Some Maldivian reefs feature golden coral, a rare phenomenon caused by the unique interplay of light and microorganisms in shallow waters.
The Maldives is home to over 25 species of sharks, including the famous whale shark. Shark diving is a top attraction for thrill-seeking visitors.
These handcrafted dhonis have been used by locals for centuries. Originally made of coconut wood, modern versions are equipped with motors and often used for tours.
Dining in the Maldives takes luxury to a new level with floating restaurants where you can enjoy gourmet meals while drifting on the crystal-clear waters.
Many local islands have adopted plastic-free initiatives, making them pioneers in sustainable tourism. Tourists are encouraged to bring reusable items to support these efforts.
With an average elevation of just 1.5 meters above sea level, the Maldives holds the title of the world’s flattest country—a reason why climate change is a critical concern.
Many tourists choose the Maldives for their destination weddings, where local traditions blend with stunning island settings for an unforgettable experience.
On Vaadhoo Island, a natural phenomenon called bioluminescence makes the waves glow in the dark, creating a surreal, otherworldly beach experience.
With a population of around half a million, the Maldives holds the title of the smallest Muslim-majority country in the world, blending faith with stunning natural beauty.
The coconut palm isn’t just the national tree of the Maldives but also a vital part of local life. Its fruit, leaves, and wood are used for food, shelter, and crafts.
Unlike most countries, the Maldives has no natural rivers or lakes. Instead, its freshwater supply comes from shallow aquifers beneath the islands.
The Maldivian Rufiyaa showcases stunning illustrations of marine life, including fish, turtles, and coral, making it one of the most beautiful currencies in the world.
Unlike other destinations, the Maldives offers year-round whale shark sightings, particularly in the South Ari Atoll, attracting divers from across the globe.
The capital city, Malé, spans just 5.8 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest capitals in the world. Despite its size, it’s a bustling hub of culture and activity.
Unlike most beaches, the Maldives’ stunning white sand comes from coral, not quartz, giving it a powdery, silky texture unique to tropical paradises.
Many Maldivian resorts offer stingray feeding sessions, allowing visitors to get up close to these gentle and fascinating creatures.
The Maldives is home to some of the largest manta ray populations, particularly in Hanifaru Bay, where these majestic creatures gather in large numbers.
The Maldives is one of the world’s top exporters of yellowfin tuna, a key ingredient in both local and international cuisines.
