Understand to Respect

Maldives Through Faith, Education and Culture

Understanding Islam in Maldivian Daily Life

Understanding Islam in Maldivian Daily Life

Religion, Behavior and Local Etiquette

Sunni Islam is the official religion of the Maldives and lies at the heart of the country’s cultural and social identity. All Maldivian citizens are legally required to be Muslim, and Islamic principles strongly shape daily life, local traditions, education, and even the political and legal systems. The rhythm of each day is marked by five daily prayers, while Friday is the holy day, during which government offices and public transport may operate on reduced schedules. During Ramadan, most locals fast from dawn to sunset. Travelers are advised not to eat, drink, or smoke in public on local islands out of respect for those observing the fast.

Public expressions of non-Islamic faiths are not permitted—there are no churches, temples, or synagogues, and displaying non-Islamic religious symbols in public is prohibited. Alcohol is banned on inhabited islands, but it is available at licensed resorts. Modest clothing is required on local islands: both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. On tourist islands and in private resorts, dress codes are more relaxed to accommodate visitor comfort. Understanding and respecting the Islamic customs of the Maldives not only shows cultural awareness but also allows for a deeper and more meaningful travel experience. You’ll discover a side of the Maldives that goes far beyond its stunning beaches and luxury resorts—a rich, living culture that shapes daily life across the islands.

School in the Maldives

School in the Maldives

Language, Structure and Local Insights

The education system in the Maldives is public, free, and compulsory until the age of 16. The Maldivian government strongly emphasizes education as a key driver of national development—especially vital in a country made up of over 1,000 islands. Primary and secondary schools exist even on the smaller inhabited islands, ensuring widespread access to basic education, although the quality of facilities and teaching can vary between urban and remote areas. One notable feature of the Maldivian school system is its bilingual approach: while Dhivehi, the national language, is taught as a subject, English is the main medium of instruction for most academic disciplines. This reflects the Maldives’ international outlook and the country's focus on preparing students for careers in tourism, global business, and technology.

Religious education is also a fundamental component of the curriculum, in line with the country's Sunni Islamic identity. Schools follow a calendar that observes Islamic holidays, and class hours may be shortened during Ramadan. According to recent UNESCO data, the literacy rate in the Maldives is approximately 98.6%, one of the highest in South Asia—a testament to the country’s efforts in making education accessible across even the most remote atolls. In recent years, the government has also invested in digital learning and remote education platforms to further bridge the geographic divide.

Maldives Local Etiquette

Maldives Local Etiquette

Do’s and Don’ts for Respectful Travelers

Visiting the Maldives means immersing yourself in an extraordinary country, but it’s essential to remember that Maldivian law is based on a legal interpretation of Sunni Islam and follows a rather strict moral code. Respect for local culture and laws is key to ensuring a safe and smooth travel experience.

Among the actions prohibited by law and punishable are:

  • Consuming alcohol outside of licensed resorts
  • Homosexual acts, including between foreign visitors
  • Extramarital relationships between Maldivian citizens and tourists
  • Offensive or critical remarks about Islam, religious symbols, or religious authorities—even on social media
  • Taking photos of people in uniform, military installations, government buildings, airports, bridges, or protest events may lead to arrest or deportation
  • Possession of even small amounts of drugs (including cannabis) is treated with extreme severity: penalties can include life imprisonment
  • In extreme cases—such as murder or high treason—the law allows for the death penalty

Traveling informed is the first step to traveling safely.

Respecting local rules not only helps avoid legal issues but also supports more responsible and mindful tourism. Always show respect for traditions: even a small gesture (like greeting someone in Dhivehi with “assalaamu alaikum”) is deeply appreciated.

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