Overview of Maldives

Profile

The Maldives comprises 26 atolls and approximately 1,190 islands spread across about 860 km north-south and 130 km east-west, of which around 200 are inhabited. With an average elevation of only 1.5 meters, it is considered one of the countries most vulnerable to sea level rise due to global warming. Tourism and fishing are the main industries, with tourism accounting for over one-third of GDP and annual visitor numbers far exceeding the population. The official language is Dhivehi, nearly all citizens practice Sunni Islam, and Islamic customs are deeply reflected in daily life and culture. The currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa, and while the capital Male is densely populated, it serves as the administrative and economic center, with ongoing residential expansion through the construction of artificial islands like Hulhumale.

Official name: Republic of Maldives
Common name: Maldives
Numeric code: 462
Alpha-3 code: MDV
Alpha-2 code: MV
Population: Approximately 520,000 (2023)
Population density: Approximately 1,800 people/km²
Primary languages: Dhivehi
Major religions: Islam (Sunni)
National anthem: ޤައްމީ ސަލާމް (Qaumi Salaam)
Calling code: +960
Internet TLD: .mv

History

After converting to Islam in 1153, a sultanate system continued, became a British protectorate from 1887, gained independence in 1965, and transitioned to a republic in 1968.

Settlers from South India and Sri Lanka established communities in ancient times, and in 1153 a sultanate system was established following conversion to Islam. Despite influence from Portugal in the 16th century and the Netherlands in the 17th century, independence was maintained, but in 1887 it became a British protectorate. During World War II, a British naval base was stationed, and after the war, a brief attempt at republicanism in 1953 was followed by restoration of the monarchy. A southern separatist independence movement in 1959 was suppressed, and independence was achieved on July 26, 1965 as the Maldive Sultanate. A transition to a republic was made through a referendum in November 1968, and President Gayoom maintained a long-term administration from 1978 to 2008. Subsequently, democratization has progressed, with repeated changes of government through multi-party elections.

Geography & climate

Chain of atoll islands near the equator from 7 degrees north to 0.5 degrees south latitude, characterized by coral reefs and turquoise lagoons described as a pearl necklace. Extremely flat with highest point at 2.4m above sea level.

Intermediate between Tropical Monsoon Climate (Am) and Tropical Rainforest Climate (Af)

Area: Asia / 298 km²
Capital: Male
Largest city: Male
Coastal status: Yes

Natural resources

Coral reefs, Tropical fish, Tuna resources, Skipjack resources, Coconut, White sand beaches, Beautiful lagoons, Sandbanks, Manta aggregation sites, Whale shark habitats

Politics

Government: Presidential Republic

Economy

Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)

GDP (nominal): Approximately 5.7 billion US dollars (2022)

GDP (PPP): Approximately 11.4 billion International dollars (2022)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Dhivehi

Time zone: Maldives Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Maldivian residents (Sinhalese-Dravidian mixed), South Indian, Sri Lankan, Arab, Bangladeshi workers, Nepali workers

Life expectancy

79.9 years (2022)

Literacy rate

98.6% (2019)

National sports

Football, Cricket, Badminton, Volleyball, Kabaddi