Maldives Fast Facts offer a simple introduction to this island nation in the Indian Ocean, from its atolls and islands to its language, currency, climate, and travel basics.

The Maldives is a tropical island nation in the Indian Ocean, in South Asia, stretching across the equator. Officially the Republic of Maldives, it is made up of 26 natural atolls and 1,192 islands, creating one of the world’s most distinctive island destinations. Although the country covers around 90,000 sq km of territory, only about 298 sq km is dry land, which is one of the reasons travel in the Maldives feels so different from a typical beach destination.

The Maldives is best known for its lagoons, coral reefs, beaches, and marine life, but it is also a living island nation with its own language, culture, traditions, and local communities. The capital is Malé, the national language is Dhivehi, the local currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), and the country runs on GMT+5. Local travel often involves speedboat, seaplane, domestic flight, or ferry, depending on the island and atoll.

The Maldives has a hot tropical climate all year. Official travel information lists an average high of 31.5°C and an average low of 26.4°C. The southwest monsoon usually runs from May to October, while the northeast monsoon from November to April is generally sunnier. The latest World Bank figure puts the population at 527,799 in 2024.

If this is your first time planning a Maldives holiday, read First Trip to the Maldives: Everything You Need to Know before choosing an island or resort.