Maldives

Overview

The Maldives is a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, known for its white-sand beaches, coral atolls, and strict Islamic framework. With a population of about 520,000 people, the country is among the world’s most geographically dispersed states. Tourism is its lifeline, alongside fishing and some growing service industries.

The Maldives has been led by President Mohamed Muizzu since 2023. Politics are democratic in form but shaped heavily by religion and economic dependency on tourism.

People & Society

The majority of Maldivians are of Dhivehi ethnic origin, a mix of South Asian, Arab, and African heritage developed over centuries of maritime trade. The society is largely homogeneous compared to many Asian states, but small minorities of expatriates (especially from South Asia) live and work in the islands.

Languages spoken: Dhivehi (official language) is spoken nationwide, while English is widely used in tourism, business, and education. Arabic is taught in schools for religious purposes, and expatriate communities use Hindi, Bengali, and Sinhala.

Culture & Daily Life

The Maldives is constitutionally Islamic, and public life is conservative: alcohol is banned on local islands, modest dress is expected, and public affection is discouraged. Resort islands are exceptions, operating under special licenses where international norms are more relaxed.

Social life centers on family ties, religious observance, and community gatherings. On local islands, cafés and teashops are the main venues for meeting. Resorts and marinas provide a very different social scene, largely catering to foreigners and wealthy locals.

Dating & Socializing

Dating is discreet and shaped by logistics. On local islands, it is low-visibility by design: beach walks, café meetups, or private introductions through friends. In Malé, Jazz Café and Seagull Café House are classic venues. Resorts like Kandu Bar at Kurumba or Hard Rock Hotel Maldives at CROSSROADS provide more open environments for foreigners and expats.

Public displays of affection and extramarital intimacy are frowned upon and may carry legal consequences outside resort zones.

Law & Restrictions

• Islam is the state religion; citizens must be Muslim.
• Alcohol is banned on local islands, legal only in resorts and liveaboards.
• Public drunkenness, PDA, and extramarital sex are punishable offenses.
• Import of alcohol or pornography is confiscated at the airport.

Insider Notes

“Never go for someone you meet online… you meet new people in your day-to-day life.” — r/maldives

“There is an underground scene based on personal connections and dating apps… be careful and discreet.” — r/expats

“If you’re at a resort island, alcoholic beverages will be available… local islands carry heavy penalties.” — r/maldives

Voices from forums give a snapshot—your experience depends on which island you’re based on and how discreet you are.