🏝️ Maldives without problems: a guide to local laws and customs

Holidays in the Maldives in the minds of many are the most relaxed and simple pastime. Sun, beach and ocean – what could go wrong?

Actually, a lot. There are strict rules and restrictions in the Maldives that greatly affect tourists. Be sure to study them before visiting this country. Violation of some prohibitions threatens not only a spoiled mood, but large fines or even a prison term.

The fact is that the Republic of Maldives is a Muslim country. Most of the population professes Islam. Accordingly, tourists coming to the islands must also adhere to religious restrictions. And this is monitored very strictly. 

It is forbidden to promote other religions (if you take the Bible with you, it will be taken away at the airport ), bring anti-Islamic literature, pornographic materials and pork. And, of course, you won’t find any of this in the Maldives itself. Thus, not a single cafe or restaurant on the local islands will serve bacon for breakfast, but they will offer a dozen dishes from local fish.

In addition, prohibitions apply to the export of things. You cannot take with you corals, shells and crafts made from turtle shells and other elements of wildlife. This is already a consequence of the serious attitude of the authorities towards the preservation of the unique ecosystem.

But there are two Islamic prohibitions that may most upset tourists heading to these paradise islands. And, oddly enough, you can bypass them.

Prohibition on the import and consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Any alcohol you bring with you will be collected at the airport. We do not recommend trying to outwit customs officers. They know all the tricks of tourists very well and check hand luggage and luggage very carefully. Also, you should not try to drink all the alcohol you took with you on the territory of the Maldives, because drinking alcohol on the islands is also prohibited. And if you try to bring a large amount of high-intensity drinks, you may be considered a smuggler and put in prison. 

On the local islands you will not find alcohol anywhere – neither in shops, nor in cafes, nor in the homes of local residents. But don't rush to despair. For those who cannot imagine their vacation without a glass of wine or a can of beer, there are several options of varying degrees of complexity. 

Firstly, alcohol is allowed to be sold and consumed on the territory of resort hotels. These are resorts with a closed area that occupy separate small Maldivian islands. They are not subject to the alcohol ban. They can be found in the minibars of rooms and in hotel restaurants. However, get ready that they will cost several times more than under normal conditions.

If you are relaxing in guest houses on local islands, you can go for one day to the selected resort hotel and enjoy alcoholic drinks there. Almost all resorts provide this opportunity.

Secondly, special so-called “drunk barges” ply near local islands in the open ocean. They are floating bars where you can legally purchase alcohol. The method works because technically alcoholic drinks are not sold on the islands, so no one breaks the law. 

Usually, there is a small boat at the main pier of the Isle de Jour. On it, tourists can quickly get to the water bar. She will deliver it back. The road to such an unusual establishment, as well as entrance to it, is free. However, do not expect much variety and be prepared for high prices, close to the cost of the same drinks in resort hotels.

Prohibition on beaches and swimming in bikinis

In public places on the local islands of the Maldives, you can only wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. And, sadly, this rule even applies to beaches. But there are some loopholes here too.

Firstly, let's remember resort hotels again. This ban also does not apply on their territory. As in the case of searching for alcohol, tourists can book a day trip to a chosen resort in order to freely sunbathe on the beach in a swimsuit. However, you can’t swim completely without clothes anywhere, even on hotel grounds.

Secondly, on some local islands popular with tourists, there are special zones on the coast – the so-called “bikini beaches”. Pay attention to signs and barriers. In this area you can walk, sunbathe and swim in bikinis. The main thing is not to go beyond its limits. You can find out where these beaches are located from the staff of the guest houses. 

If you study all the prohibitions in advance and prepare for them, your holiday in the Maldives will be calm and interesting, and most importantly, safe.