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Male Travel Tips

Communication Details

Staying connected in Malé is easy with local mobile services and Wi-Fi.

Connectivity Options

  • Local SIM cards: Dhiraagu and Ooredoo at Velana International Airport.
  • Wi-Fi: Widely available at hotels, guesthouses, cafes.
  • Postal Services: General Post Office in Malé.

Language & Aid

English is widely spoken, notably in tourist spots, but a few Dhivehi phrases are appreciated.

Language Information

  • Official language is Dhivehi.
  • English is common in tourism.
  • Basic Dhivehi phrases can make interactions better.

Business Hours

Operating hours vary for different businesses across Malé.

General Schedules

  • Government Offices: Sun-Thu, 8 AM - 4 PM.
  • Shops: Typically 9 AM - 10 PM, with prayer breaks.
  • Banks: Sun-Thu, 8 AM - 2 PM (ATMs 24/7).

Holiday Impact

Islamic and national holidays influence company operations.

Holiday Considerations

  • Muslim holidays the dates are different annually.
  • Major holidays cause closings or reduced services.
  • Check local holiday calendars for your visit dates.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

General Conduct

  • Handshakes are common among men; women wait for a hand extended.
  • Modest dress in public: shoulders and knees covered.
  • Use your right hand for eating.
  • Ask permission before photographing individuals.

Taboos & Sensitivities

  • Alcohol is strictly prohibited in Malé and local islands.
  • Avoid overt public displays of affection.
  • Nudity or topless sunbathing is strictly forbidden.
  • During Ramadan, abstain from eating, drinking, smoking in public during fasting hours.

Important Note on Dress Code

Modesty in attire is expected in common areas of Malé and local islands. This involves with modest attire for both men and women. Swimwear is for resort islands only; modest swimwear is for Malé's Artificial Beach.

Accessibility Information

Consider facilities and available services for diverse travel needs.

Mobility Challenges

Malé's infrastructure, with crowded streets and high curbs, can be challenging for wheelchair users.

Transport Accessibility

Public transportation (ferries, taxis) may not be fully accessible for all needs.

Accommodation

Inquire directly with hotels about accessible rooms and specific features for your stay.

Planning for Specific Needs

For travelers with specific needs, advance communication is advisable.

Pre-Trip Preparation

  • Communicate needs to inns and tour operators in advance.
  • Determine what accommodations can be provided.
  • International travel agencies specializing in accessible travel may possess more details.

Limited Resources

Official resources particularly for travel with accessibility needs within the Republic of maldives are limited.

Direct Inquiry

  • Direct communication with suppliers is most effective.
  • Confirm particular characteristics before booking your stay.
  • Discuss your individual needs for a comfortable experience.

Accessible Attractions

Site Access

  • Numerous historic locations have steps or uneven terrain.
  • Accessible attractions are limited in Malé's urban area.
  • Plan routes carefully, considering physical barriers.

Inclusive Travel

  • Limited specific services for visual impairments.
  • Limited specific services for hearing impairments.
  • Consider specialized travel assistance if needed.

Accessibility Recommendation

For accessibility planning, direct communication with your accommodation provider and any tour operators is the most effective approach.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Respect local customs to enrich your experience in the Maldives.

Greeting Customs

Handshakes are common among men. Women may shake hands with women.

Interacting with Locals

  • It is polite to wait for a Maldivian woman to extend her hand first.
  • A simple "Assalaamu alaikum" is a respectful greeting.
  • A polite greeting and a smile contribute to positive interactions.

Appropriate Attire

Modesty in dress is important in common areas of Malé and local islands.

Dress Code Guidelines

  • Public places: Shoulders and knees covered (no sleeveless tops, short shorts).
  • Mosques: Both men and women must cover shoulders and knees; women also need a head covering.
  • Resort Islands: Swimwear is acceptable. Artificial Beach (Malé): Modest swimwear.

Dining & Tipping

Understand local practices for meals and gratuities.

Mealtime Manners

  • Use your right hand if eating with hands.
  • Tipping is not mandatory; a service charge is often included.
  • Small tips for good service are appreciated.

Photography Ethics

Be mindful and respectful when taking photographs.

Visual Etiquette

  • Always ask permission before photographing individuals, most notably women and children.
  • Be discreet and respectful, avoid photographing people praying.
  • Some government buildings or military installations might have rules on photography.

Sensitive Topics & Taboos

Prohibitions

  • Do not bring alcohol into Malé or other local islands.
  • Public displays of affection are not culturally accepted.
  • Nudity or topless sunbathing is strictly forbidden.

Cultural Observances

  • During Ramadan, abstain from eating, drinking, and smoking in public during fasting hours.
  • Maldivian society is conservative; women dress modestly.
  • Homosexuality is illegal; travelers observe local laws.

Religious Site Etiquette

Mosque Visits

  • Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
  • Women's heads covered.
  • Remove shoes before entering.

Respectful Behavior

  • Avoid visiting during prayer times.
  • Keep a quiet disposition.
  • Always be respectful of the sacred space.

Takeaway

Adherence to local customs and etiquette is fundamental for a deferential and positive experience in Malé and the Republic of maldives.

Business Hours & Schedules

Organize your activities around typical operating hours in Malé.

Typical Operating Hours

Malé businesses generally operate on standard schedules, with certain variations.

Business Type Timings

  • Government Offices: Sunday to Thursday, 8 AM - 4 PM.
  • Shops: Typically 9 AM - 10 PM.
  • Banks: Sunday to Thursday, 8 AM - 2 PM (ATMs 24/7).

Prayer Time Closures

Many shops, especially smaller ones, observe brief closures for daily prayer times.

Religious Observances

  • Shops close briefly for prayer times.
  • Expect closures during Friday prayers (around noon).
  • Shops often reopen shortly after prayers.

Religious & Public Holidays

Islamic and public holidays might cause closures or else reduced services.

Holiday Impact

  • Islamic holidays follow the lunar calendar; the dates are not fixed.
  • Major holidays: Eid-Fitr, Eid al-Adha.
  • Bank holidays: Independence Day (July 26), Republic Day (Nov 11).

Seasonal Considerations

Some resorts might undertake maintenance during the low season.

Off-Peak Season

  • Wet season (May-October) is considered low season.
  • Potential temporary shutdowns or limited services at vacation spots.
  • Not common for Malé city businesses to have seasonal closures.

Restaurant & Cafe Hours

Morning to Evening

Generally open from morning until late evening.

Mid-Afternoon Breaks

Some may close briefly in the mid-afternoon.

Ramadan Adjustments

During Ramadan, restaurants may have limited hours or discreet dining options.

Planning Ahead

Plan your visit by checking the local holiday calendar, especially if your trip coincides with major events, to avoid unexpected closures.

Next Up: Sustainable Travel in Male. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation