Maldives

Tipping

• Tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is often included in resort bills (typically 10%)
• However, additional tipping for good service is appreciated
• Porters: $1
• 2 per bag
• Room attendants: $5
• 10 per day
• Restaurant staff: 5
• 10% if service charge is not included or for exceptional service
• Dive instructors/boat crew: 5
• 10% of the diving package cost

Money & Payments

• ATMs are widely available, especially in Male and resort islands
• It's better to get money from ATMs
• Credit cards are widely accepted at resorts and larger guesthouses/shops, but less so at local islands
• It's better to bring some cash for smaller local purchases and guesthouses on non
• resort islands
• There is no black market for cash

Cultural Norms

• Dress modestly when visiting local islands: shoulders and knees should be covered
• Public displays of affection are not customary
• It is customary to remove shoes before entering someone's home or a mosque
• During Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours are forbidden for Muslims and respectful behavior is expected from visitors

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Homosexuality is illegal in the Maldives and can carry severe penalties, including imprisonment and flogging. Public displays of affection, regardless of orientation, are generally frowned upon.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

• Alcohol is prohibited for local Maldivian citizens and is generally only available on resort islands and liveaboards
• It is illegal to bring alcohol into the country
• Drug laws are very strict, and penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of even small amounts of drugs are severe, including lengthy imprisonment

Special Laws

• Importing religious idols, pork products, and alcohol is strictly prohibited
• Luggage is scanned upon arrival, and prohibited items will be confiscated
• Modest dress is required when visiting local islands and non
• resort areas
• Public displays of affection are generally frowned upon