How Does Local Laws Work in Maldives?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Africa & Oceania
1The Quick Answer
Islam is the state religion and its laws apply strictly — alcohol, pork, gambling, drugs, and LGBTQ relationships are all illegal on local islands.
2What You Need to Know
The Maldives is a 100% Muslim nation and Islamic law shapes public life significantly. Alcohol is completely prohibited on all local (inhabited) islands and is only legally available at resort islands, liveaboards, and the international airport departure terminal. Drugs carry severe penalties including possible death, and importing alcohol, pork, or non-Islamic religious materials is illegal. LGBTQ relationships are criminalised under Maldivian law, and public displays of affection are banned regardless of orientation.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Never attempt to bring alcohol onto a local island — penalties are serious and customs checks can occur on public ferries.
- 2Keep all prescription medications in their original labelled packaging to avoid any suspicion at customs.
- 3Same-sex couples should exercise strong discretion, especially on local islands, where local attitudes can be very conservative.
Important Warning
Drug offences can result in the death penalty — do not carry, use, or attempt to purchase any narcotics anywhere in the Maldives.
How does this compare?
Local Laws rules in nearby and similar countries:
Never buy ivory, rhino horn, or listed wildlife products; cannabis is decriminalized for private use; comply immediately if carjacked.
New Zealand has strict biosecurity border laws, tight firearms regulations, and rules around freedom camping — declare everything on arrival.
Plastic bags are banned on entry; LGBTQ relationships are illegal; wildlife products (ivory) carry severe penalties; cannabis is illegal with zero tolerance.
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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
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
Alcohol is completely banned on all local islands and is only legally available at resort islands, liveaboards, and the international departure terminal.
Updated 2025-06
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