General Information
 

Capital: Male.
Time: GMT + 5 .
Tel. Code: 00 960 .
Official Language: The national language is Dhivehi. English is widely used as a business language in government offices and the commercial sector. Other languages are widely used within tourist areas.
Currency: Maldivian Rufiya (Rf) = 100 laari. Notes are in denominations of Rf500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of Rf2 and 1, and 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 laari
Electricity: 230 volts AC, 50Hz. Round-pin plugs are used, although square-pin plugs are now becoming more common.
Religion: The indigenous population is almost entirely Sunni Muslim .

Climate
The Maldives have a hot tropical climate. There are two monsoons, the southwest from May to October and the northeast from November to April. Generally the southwest brings more wind and rain in June and July. The temperature rarely falls below 25°C (77°F). The best time to visit is November to Easter.
Required Clothing: Lightweight cottons and linens throughout the year. Light waterproofs are advised during the rainy season.

Airports
Hulule International Airport (MLE) on Hulule Island is 2Km from Male (Travel time by boat is 15minutes). Boats from the various island resorts meet each arriving plane to take visitors to their accommodation. There is no scheduled transfer from Hulule Island to the other islands.
Departure tax: None if airport tax has been paid before; otherwise, US$12.

Internal Travel
Air, sea and road are the three ways of transportation within Maldives.

Passport/Visa

Passport
Passport valid for the duration of stay required by all.

Visa
Visas are issued on arrival at the immigration desk at Maldives International Airport to all foreign tourists having valid travel documents . Visas issued are valid for 30 days. Visa issued is free of charge.