How Does Driving Rules Work in Maldives?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Africa & Oceania
1The Quick Answer
Tourists essentially never need to drive in the Maldives — resorts use golf carts, and all inter-island transport is by boat or seaplane.
2What You Need to Know
Malé has a road network and some scooters and cars, but the island is so compact that walking is the practical transport mode. Larger inhabited islands may have scooters available for hire. At resorts, guests move around by foot or golf cart — both provided by the resort. International driving licences are theoretically required for any road driving, but in practice the vast majority of tourists complete entire Maldives holidays without needing to drive at all. Seaplanes and speedboats are the primary transport infrastructure.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Inform your resort of any mobility requirements before arrival so appropriate golf cart assistance can be arranged across the island.
- 2If hiring a scooter on a larger local island, wear a helmet and drive slowly — roads can be narrow and poorly maintained.
- 3Familiarise yourself with your resort's golf cart routes and jetty locations on arrival, as some resort islands are larger than they look on maps.
How does this compare?
Driving Rules rules in nearby and similar countries:
Drive on the LEFT; highways are generally good quality; keep doors locked in cities; do not stop on roadsides at night.
Drive on the LEFT; roads are often narrow and winding; speed limits are strictly enforced; a rental car is essential for most itineraries.
Drive on the LEFT; roads outside Nairobi are often poor; a 4WD is essential for national parks; never drive outside cities at night.
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More About Maldives
Most resorts automatically add a 10% service charge, but small additional tips in USD are appreciated by housekeeping and boat staff.
Updated 2025-06
There are no roads between islands — transport is by seaplane, speedboat, or domestic flight, with no rideshare apps available.
Updated 2025-06
Medical facilities are very limited outside Malé, and medical evacuation insurance is absolutely essential for all visitors.
Updated 2025-06
Islam is the state religion and its laws apply strictly — alcohol, pork, gambling, drugs, and LGBTQ relationships are all illegal on local islands.
Updated 2025-06
Police: 119; Ambulance: 102; Fire: 118; Coast Guard: 191.
Updated 2025-06
Swimwear is fine at resort beaches and private sandbanks, but on local islands you must cover shoulders and knees at all times.
Updated 2025-06
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