Maldives Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Maldives, state and archipelago of the northern Indian Ocean; 298 km², 516 000 residents (2019).The Maldives consists of nineteen atolls with 1,800 islands, of which about 200 are inhabited. The northernmost island is located 370 km southwest of India’s southern tip. The capital is Male (134,200 residents, 2012).

Country facts

Divehi Jumhuriyya / Republic of Maldives
Country abbreviation: MV
Area: 298 km²
Population (2019): 516,000 residents
Capital: Male
Main language: divehi
State: Republic
Head of State and Head of Government: Ibrahim Muhamed Solih (President)
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 10 224
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 9,310
Currency unit: 1 rufiyaa = 100 laari
Currency code: MVR
Country dialing (telephony): 960
Internet domain names: etc.
Time difference compared to Sweden: +4
National Day: July 26 (Independence Day, 1965)

Nature

Land use: forest (3%), agricultural land (10%), other (87%)
Highest point: unnamed hill on the island of Wilingili (2 m above sea level)

Population

Population density (2019): 1,732 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 1.7%; birth rate 18 ‰, death rate 4 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (21%), 15-64 (75%), 65- (4%)
Life expectancy (2019): men 77 years, women 80 years
Infant mortality (2019): 18 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 600,000 residents
HDI (2017): 0.717 (place 101 of 189)
Urbanization rate (2019): 41%
Most populous city (2012): Male (134,200 residents)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2015): agriculture (3%), industry (16%), service (81%)
Export (2016): USD 240 million
Main export products: fish, textiles
Main exporting countries: France, Thailand, Germany
Imports (2016): US $ 1,896 million
Main import products: oil products, clothing, food
Main Importing Countries: United Arab Emirates, Singapore, India
Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography of Maldives

Location and Boundaries

The Maldives is an island nation situated in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. It consists of around 1,192 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls, which are spread over an area of approximately 90,000 square kilometers, though the land area itself is only about 298 square kilometers. These islands are located on the equator, making the Maldives one of the most remote and ecologically unique places in the world. The Maldives is bordered by the vast waters of the Indian Ocean, providing the country with a tropical maritime climate and a unique biodiversity. The country is positioned in a strategic location, with shipping lanes passing close to its shores.

Terrain and Landscape

The Maldives is known for its stunning tropical landscape, consisting of white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The islands are relatively flat, with the highest point being only about 2.4 meters above sea level, making the Maldives one of the most vulnerable countries to the effects of climate change, particularly rising sea levels. The islands are made of coral, with most of them featuring lush palm trees and shrubbery, along with numerous lagoons and beaches.

The Maldives’ coral reefs are some of the richest in the world, hosting diverse marine life, including various species of fish, sea turtles, and marine mammals. These reefs are not only a vital part of the nation’s biodiversity but also a key economic resource, supporting both the fishing and tourism industries.

Atolls and Islands

The Maldives’ 26 atolls are spread across the Indian Ocean and are divided into the northern and southern regions. Each atoll consists of several small islands, many of which are uninhabited. The capital of the Maldives, Malé, is located on one of the islands, and it serves as the country’s political, cultural, and economic hub. Malé is a densely populated urban area with a population that significantly exceeds that of most other islands in the country. The nation’s islands are scattered, with no island more than 80 kilometers away from the other, making transportation via boats or seaplanes an essential part of daily life.

Climate of Maldives

Tropical Climate

The Maldives has a tropical monsoon climate characterized by warm temperatures, high humidity, and abundant sunshine throughout the year. The climate is influenced by the equator’s proximity and the Indian Ocean’s maritime environment. The average temperature typically ranges from 23°C (73°F) to 31°C (88°F), with only slight variations between day and night. This consistent warm climate makes the Maldives an ideal destination for tourists seeking sun, sand, and water activities.

Rainy and Dry Seasons

The Maldives experiences two main seasons: the dry season (northeast monsoon) and the wet season (southwest monsoon). The northeast monsoon typically lasts from December to April, bringing dry, sunny weather with little to no rain, which is the peak tourist season. During the southwest monsoon, from May to November, the islands receive more rain, with June and July being the wettest months. Although rain is common during this period, it usually comes in short bursts and does not last long, allowing for plenty of sunshine.

The Maldives’ climate is also characterized by high humidity levels, which can make it feel warmer, especially during the wet season. The Maldives’ consistent weather patterns make it a popular year-round destination, although the peak tourist season coincides with the dry months.

Environmental Vulnerability

Due to its low-lying geography, the Maldives is extremely vulnerable to climate change. Rising sea levels pose a significant threat to the islands, with the potential to submerge entire atolls. Additionally, changes in ocean temperatures can impact the coral reefs, which are critical to the country’s marine biodiversity and tourism industry.

People of Maldives

Population and Demographics

The Maldives has a population of approximately 540,000 people. The population density is highest on the capital island of Malé, which is home to a significant proportion of the country’s total population. Due to the scattered nature of the islands, much of the population lives in urbanized areas, with a large concentration residing in Malé. Other islands, particularly the resort islands, are less densely populated or even uninhabited.

The country’s population is young, with a large percentage under the age of 30. The life expectancy in the Maldives has increased significantly over the past few decades due to improvements in healthcare, sanitation, and general living conditions.

Ethnicity and Languages

The population of the Maldives is ethnically homogeneous, with the majority being Maldivian. The country’s inhabitants are primarily of South Asian descent, particularly of Arab, Indian, and African ancestry. The ethnic composition of the Maldives has been influenced by centuries of trade and cultural exchange, with Indian Ocean trade routes bringing a mix of cultures to the islands.

The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, a language that is part of the Indo-Aryan group of languages and is closely related to languages spoken in the Indian subcontinent. Although Dhivehi is the predominant language, English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas and the tourism industry, where it serves as a lingua franca for international visitors.

Religion and Beliefs

Islam is the official religion of the Maldives, and nearly the entire population (about 99%) is Muslim, predominantly following Sunni Islam. Islam plays a central role in daily life and the governance of the country, with Islamic laws influencing both public policies and social norms. Non-Muslim religions are not officially recognized, and the practice of any religion other than Islam is prohibited for Maldivian citizens.

Islamic traditions are deeply embedded in the culture, and religious events such as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr are widely celebrated across the islands. The country also observes Friday as the official day of rest, aligning with Islamic customs.

Economy of Maldives

Overview of the Economy

The Maldives’ economy is driven by tourism, fishing, and agriculture, with services contributing the largest portion of the country’s GDP. The country’s geographic isolation has limited its industrial and agricultural development, but the tourism sector, particularly luxury resorts, has grown exponentially in recent decades, making it one of the world’s top tourist destinations.

The country also benefits from a relatively high standard of living, with a growing middle class. However, despite its economic growth, the Maldives remains vulnerable to external shocks, particularly those related to climate change, global tourism trends, and international trade.

Tourism

Tourism is the cornerstone of the Maldivian economy, accounting for a significant portion of the nation’s GDP and foreign exchange earnings. The Maldives is famous for its idyllic islands, pristine beaches, and luxury resorts, attracting millions of tourists every year. The nation is known for its all-inclusive resorts, often located on private islands, which offer visitors an exclusive experience. The government has focused on maintaining a sustainable tourism model, emphasizing environmental conservation and eco-friendly practices to ensure that tourism remains a key economic driver.

The Maldives’ appeal lies in its unique position as a paradise for luxury travelers, with overwater bungalows, world-class diving sites, and marine biodiversity. The tourism sector employs a significant portion of the population, with jobs in hospitality, services, and transportation. Despite its reliance on tourism, the country’s exposure to international economic trends and climate change presents ongoing challenges for the long-term stability of this sector.

Fishing and Agriculture

Fishing remains another important industry in the Maldives, both for local consumption and export. The country’s waters are rich in tuna, and the Maldives is a major exporter of tuna products, particularly to Japan. The traditional method of pole-and-line fishing is still prevalent in the country, although commercial and industrial fishing practices have also been adopted.

Agriculture plays a minor role in the economy, primarily due to the limited arable land on the islands. Coconut palms are widely cultivated, and other crops such as bananas, papayas, and vegetables are grown in small quantities. However, the nation still relies heavily on imports to meet its food requirements, making food security a key concern.

Challenges to the Economy

While the Maldives has enjoyed relative prosperity, it faces several economic challenges, particularly related to its vulnerability to external factors. The nation’s reliance on imports for food and energy, along with its dependence on a single economic sector (tourism), leaves it susceptible to fluctuations in global markets. Additionally, the effects of climate change, including rising sea levels, coastal erosion, and the degradation of coral reefs, pose long-term threats to the economy.

Government of Maldives

Political System and Structure

The Maldives operates as a republic with a presidential form of government. The president is both the head of state and government, elected by popular vote for a five-year term. The president appoints a cabinet, which is responsible for managing the executive branch of government. The country’s legislature, known as the People’s Majlis, is unicameral, with 87 members who are elected to serve five-year terms.

The judiciary is independent, with the Supreme Court serving as the highest court in the country. The Maldivian legal system is based on a combination of civil law, Islamic law, and customary law.

Political Parties and Elections

The political landscape of the Maldives is dynamic and often marked by partisan rivalry. The two main political parties are the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM). Elections are held regularly, and political transitions have often been characterized by peaceful, although sometimes contentious, processes. The country has faced periods of political instability, including a coup in 2012 and the subsequent restoration of democratic governance.

Culture of Maldives

Art, Music, and Dance

Maldivian culture reflects a blend of South Asian, Arab, and African influences, with unique artistic expressions tied to the country’s rich history as a trading nation. Traditional Maldivian music is influenced by rhythmic chanting and drumming, with instruments such as the Bodu Beru (a large drum) playing a central role in performances. The islanders’ dances often accompany the music, and these performances are important parts of celebrations and community events.

Handicrafts, such as lacquerwork and woven mats, are traditional forms of artistic expression in the Maldives. These crafts are often used for both domestic purposes and as items of cultural significance during ceremonies and rituals.

Festivals and Traditions

The Maldives celebrates several national and religious festivals, many of which are centered around Islam. Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, and Eid al-Adha, celebrating the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, are among the most important religious holidays. During these festivals, the country comes alive with feasts, prayers, and family gatherings.

The Maldives also celebrates Independence Day on July 26th, commemorating the country’s independence from British colonial rule in 1965. Other traditional festivals, such as the Maldivian New Year and the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan, are marked with public celebrations and family rituals.

History of Maldives

Early History and Kingdoms

The history of the Maldives dates back over two millennia, with early inhabitants believed to be of South Asian origin. The islands were initially settled by early Dravidian peoples, with influences from Buddhist kingdoms such as the kingdom of Sri Lanka. By the 12th century, Islam was introduced to the Maldives, and the nation embraced the religion, shaping the culture and governance that persists to this day.

The Maldives remained a sultanate for much of its history, with various sultans ruling the islands. The country’s position along important maritime trade routes contributed to its development as a major trading hub in the Indian Ocean.

Colonial Era and Independence

The Maldives was a British protectorate from 1887 until it gained independence on July 26, 1965. The British maintained control over foreign policy, defense, and communications, while the sultanate retained domestic control. Following independence, the Maldives adopted a republican form of government, with the establishment of a new constitution in 1968.

Recent History and Challenges

In recent decades, the Maldives has faced political instability, including the overthrow of democratic governments, periods of authoritarian rule, and a 2012 coup. Despite these challenges, the country has worked toward strengthening its democratic institutions and governance. The Maldives is also grappling with the impact of climate change, which has brought global attention to its vulnerable environment.

The Maldives’ history is marked by resilience, with its people maintaining a distinct cultural identity in the face of both internal and external challenges. Today, the nation continues to navigate the complexities of a globalized world, with an eye on maintaining its unique heritage and environmental sustainability.