Maldives Country Report
Maldives is a country located in South Asia and is a popular tourist destination due to its islands and resort beaches. Despite significant democratic failures, the country has enjoyed some degree of political stability in recent years, but a constitutional crisis in early 2018 cast serious doubt on the government’s stability.
The main threat that foreign travelers face is generally petty crime. However, there are also growing concerns about extremism-related terrorism and the influence of foreign armed groups such as the Islamic State (ISIS). Occasional demonstrations have been held in the capital, Male, and some have turned violent. Similarly, strike action is observed from time to time and can disrupt the functioning of the concerned sector. Moreover, corruption is pervasive and affects all forms of public life. Another problem is that the rule of law is weak.
Flooding is a frequent concern during the monsoon season. In addition, the country is known to be prone to tsunamis caused by strong offshore tremors in the Indian Ocean. Access to medical care and medicine is limited.
Proof of COVID-19 test or vaccination is no longer required, but travelers must submit an online declaration form within 96 hours of arrival and/or departure from the Maldives.
Last updated: June 27, 2023
Security
The conflict in the Maldives is not a concern. Likewise, overall crime rates are low, with travelers more likely to be victims of minor opportunistic crimes than violent crimes. Demonstrations occasionally occur, but are usually held far from popular tourist destinations. The Sunni Muslim-majority country has growing influence over foreign extremist groups and a low-level threat of terrorism due to rising extremism.
Last updated: April 27, 2022
Infrastructure
There are several safety concerns with air and ground travel in the Maldives.
Road networks outside Malé and other main areas and popular tourist destinations are also limited.
Power outages have been reported from time to time in the city of Male.
Mobile phone coverage and internet connectivity are relatively reliable, especially in densely populated areas, but there are growing concerns about cybercrime.
Last updated: April 27, 2022
Environment
Although there are currently no known human threats, the Maldives is vulnerable to a number of natural disasters that pose significant threats to human communities and infrastructure. Rain-induced flooding and disruptions are a concern not only during the monsoon season but also during the cyclone season from April to September. In addition, there is a definite risk of a tsunami caused by an earthquake.
Last updated: March 15, 2022
Health and Medical
There is no major concern regarding this disease in the Maldives. However, well-equipped hospitals and pharmacies that provide adequate medical care are limited outside Malé and other major urban centers.
Last updated: September 7, 2022
Political
The Maldivian political system is rated particularly successful in 2018, despite occasional political challenges from opposition parties and intra-party struggles. High levels of corruption and weak rule of law also have a negative impact on the government, judiciary and law enforcement.
Last updated: March 25, 2022
