The Maldives

The Maldives is a tropical paradise consisting of 26 natural atolls with over 1,000 coral islands in the Indian Ocean. Known for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious overwater bungalows, this nation represents the epitome of luxury beach tourism.

The Maldives is an archipelagic state situated in the heart of the Indian Ocean, comprising 26 natural ring-shaped atolls made up of more than 1,190 coral islands. Only about 200 of these islands are inhabited, with an additional 154 islands designated as exclusive resort islands. The nation is renowned for its unique geography, with no island exceeding 2.4 meters above sea level, making it the world’s lowest-lying country.

The Maldives stretches approximately 871 kilometers from north to south and 130 kilometers from east to west, covering an area of roughly 90,000 square kilometers, though only 298 square kilometers is dry land. The islands are protected by barrier reefs, creating lagoons of extraordinary beauty that house diverse marine ecosystems. Each resort typically occupies its own private island, offering guests exclusive access to pristine beaches and house reefs. The country’s economy is primarily driven by tourism and fishing, with luxury tourism being its main source of foreign exchange.

Located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of India and Sri Lanka. The archipelago straddles the Equator, with the northernmost atoll approximately 600 kilometers from India’s Lakshadweep islands.

Major Cities

Male – The capital city and main commercial center
Addu City – The southernmost city and second largest urban area
Fuvahmulah – A unique single-island city known for its natural pools
Kulhudhuffushi – An important northern commercial hub