Maldives
South Asia • MDV
Last updated: October 14, 2026
The Maldives is a breathtaking archipelago nation in the Indian Ocean renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and luxurious overwater bungalows. It serves as an ultimate destination for travelers seeking world-class snorkeling, diving, and serene tropical relaxation in an idyllic island setting.
Visa Requirements
The Maldives offers a free 30-day tourist visa on arrival to all nationalities, provided they meet entry requirements.
Typically Required Documents
- Passport with at least 6 months validity
- Confirmed onward or return flight ticket
- Proof of accommodation or sufficient funds for the stay
- Completed Traveler Declaration form submitted within 96 hours of arrival
Popular Attractions
Male City is the vibrant capital island featuring historic sites like the Old Friday Mosque and the bustling local fish market.
Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve that offers unparalleled opportunities to swim with manta rays and whale sharks.
Maafushi Island provides a more accessible and authentic experience with a mix of beautiful beaches and local culture.
The underwater restaurants, such as Ithaa, offer a unique dining experience surrounded by exotic marine life in a glass-walled setting.
Vaadhoo Island is famous for its 'Sea of Stars,' a bioluminescent phenomenon that makes the shoreline glow bright blue at night.
Local Customs & Etiquette
Dress modestly when visiting inhabited local islands by covering shoulders and knees out of respect for Islamic traditions.
Public displays of affection are considered inappropriate and should be avoided in public areas outside of private resort islands.
Alcohol and pork products are strictly prohibited on local islands and can only be consumed on licensed resort islands or boats.
Remove your footwear before entering someone's home or a mosque to show proper respect.
Always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals, especially women or people engaged in religious activities.
Safety Tips
Stay hydrated and use high-SPF sunscreen, as the equatorial sun is extremely intense throughout the year.
Always wear a life jacket when participating in water sports or boat excursions, even if you are a strong swimmer.
Be cautious of strong currents when swimming; always check with resort staff about the safety of swimming in specific beach areas.
Store valuables in hotel safes and keep digital copies of your passport and travel documents in a secure cloud service.
Only drink bottled or treated water, as tap water is generally not suitable for consumption on most islands.
AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.
Yellow Fever
Source: CDC
Not required when traveling directly from non-risk countries.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.
View sourceYellow Fever
Source: CDC
Core Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, Polio, etc.) are up to date before travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date including MMR, DTaP, Varicella, and Polio.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, DTaP, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceRoutine Vaccines (MMR, Tdap, Polio, Varicella, Influenza)
Source: CDC
Ensure all routine vaccinations are up to date before travel to provide general immunity.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers who may eat or drink outside major restaurants and hotels.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To avoid mosquito-borne diseases prevalent in the region.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for all travelers due to potential risk through food and water.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccine
Source: CDC
To prevent COVID-19, vaccination is highly recommended prior to traveling.
View sourceRoutine vaccinations (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
It is important for overall health protection against common diseases.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis) booster every 10 years
Source: CDC
Stay up to date on tetanus and diphtheria vaccination especially if traveling to rural areas.
View sourceRoutine vaccines: MMR, DTaP, and annual flu vaccine
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccines are up to date before traveling to protect against common diseases.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap)
Source: CDC
Check that you are up-to-date on your routine vaccines before your trip.
View sourceTdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceMMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Source: CDC
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccination
Source: CDC
Recommended to be fully vaccinated prior to travel.
View sourceRoutine vaccines (MMR, Tdap, etc.)
Source: CDC
Ensure vaccinations are up to date before travel.
View sourceFor Most Travelers
Food and Water Safety
Source: CDC
Precautions are advised to prevent foodborne and waterborne diseases.
Eat and drink safely to avoid diarrheal illnesses.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Required to protect against mosquito-borne diseases.
Use EPA-registered insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing.
View sourceRabies vaccine (if high-risk activities planned)
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers engaging in activities that could expose them to bats or other mammals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered for those who might be exposed to blood or bodily fluids.
View sourceCOVID-19 vaccinations
Source: CDC
Recommended to reduce the risk of severe illness or complications from COVID-19 while traveling.
Follow local guidelines regarding COVID testing and vaccination.
View sourceTraveler's diarrhea precautions
Source: CDC
Practice safe food and water measures to prevent traveler's diarrhea.
View sourceInsect bite prevention measures
Source: CDC
To prevent diseases such as dengue and chikungunya, which are transmitted through mosquito bites.
Use insect repellent and wear protective clothing.
View sourceHepatitis A
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers due to risk through contaminated food or water.
View sourceTyphoid
Source: CDC
Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities/rural areas.
Risk exists due to contaminated food and water.
View sourceItinerary-Specific
Food and Water Safety Precautions
Source: CDC
Essential to prevent gastrointestinal illness; drink only bottled or treated water and consume only thoroughly cooked food.
View sourceInsect Bite Prevention
Source: CDC
Use repellent, wear long-sleeved clothing, and use bed nets to prevent mosquito-borne diseases.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Consider for travelers who may have sexual contact with the local population or skin exposure.
View sourceRabies vaccine
Source: CDC
Consider if engaging in outdoor activities that may involve animals.
Post-exposure rabies treatment may be less available.
View sourceOther region-specific vaccines as needed
Source: CDC
Based on your activities, age, health conditions, and vaccines received in the past.
View sourceRabies
Source: CDC
Recommended for travelers involved in outdoor activities or working with animals.
View sourceHepatitis B
Source: CDC
Considered based on specific travel activities that may involve contact with blood or bodily fluids.
View sourceDengue prevention measures
Source: CDC
Recommended due to high incidence of dengue fever; avoid standing water and use appropriate insect repellent.
View sourceMalaria prevention
Source: CDC
For those traveling to remote areas or islands where malaria mosquitoes are present.
Consult a medical provider for prophylaxis options.
View source