Time Zone
The Maldives operates on Maldives Standard Time (MST), which is five hours ahead of GMT. The Maldives does not observe daylight saving time, so during summer in the UK, the time difference reduces to four hours. It's important to note that some islands within the Maldives may operate one hour ahead of the capital, Male. You can enquire about this with your resort, as it's often done to provide guests with an extra hour of daylight in the evenings.
Currency and Banking
The official currency of the Maldives is the rufiyaa, divided into 100 laari. Banknotes are available in denominations of two, five, ten, 20, 50, 100 and 500 rufiyaa, while coins come in one and two rufiyaa, as well as ten, 25 and 50 laari. US dollars are widely accepted in the Maldives, and many resorts may charge you in dollars for your convenience. Most resorts also accept major credit cards, including Visa, MasterCard and American Express. Banks generally operate from 08:00 to 13:30, and they are closed on Fridays and Saturdays.
Electricity and Plug Type
The Maldives uses an electrical voltage of 220 volts. The majority of plugs should be the UK three-pin style, however, you may find some US-style plugs, so it's advisable to carry a universal adapter with you just in case.
Local Services
Local shops in the Maldives typically open daily from 09:30 to 23:00. However, it's worth noting that some businesses may delay their opening until 14:00 on Fridays or remain closed entirely. Restaurants, on the other hand, generally serve meals from 12:00 to 14:00 and then again from 18:00 to 21:00, with some establishments staying open later. Please be aware that these hours may vary, especially on Fridays.
Media and Communication
Stay informed while in the Maldives by accessing English-language news through sources like the Maldives Independent, an online English-speaking newspaper. You can also find an English edition of the local daily newspaper, Miadhu. Most hotels offer satellite TV with international channels, including the BBC, CNN and HBO, so you won't miss out on global news and entertainment.
Postal Services
The postal system in the Maldives is generally efficient, and mail sent from the Maldives to Europe typically arrives in about ten days. The main post office in the capital, Male, operates from 08:30 to 17:00, with a slightly earlier closing time of 16:00 on Saturdays. Most resorts can assist you in sending your mail so you won't have to travel to a post office.
Phone Calls
Making international calls between the UK and the Maldives is straightforward. To call the Maldives from the UK, dial 00 960 followed by the desired number. Conversely, to call the UK from the Maldives, dial 00 44 followed by the desired number, omitting the first zero of the UK number.
Internet and Mobile Connectivity
Most resorts in the Maldives offer complimentary Wi-Fi access for their guests, although the coverage may not extend to every corner of the resort. Generally, mobile network coverage is robust throughout the Maldives. However, it's advisable to confirm with your mobile operator before your trip to ensure seamless access to the local network during your stay.
Currency
Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR).
