Maldives is located in Southern Asia, and its capital is Male. It has a population of approximately 527,799 and covers an area of about 300 km². Its official currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR).
What stands out
People & place
1,759 /km² across 300 km²
Maldives has a recorded population of 527,799 and a reported surface area of 300 km².
Economic snapshot
$7.06 billion nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $7.06 billion and GDP per capita at $13,379 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
The Maldives, officially the Republic of Maldives, is a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, it is a popular destination for honeymooners and divers alike. The country consists of 1,192 coral islands organized into 26 atolls, with only about 200 islands inhabited.
The Maldives is the world's lowest and flattest country, with its highest point rising only 2.4 meters (7.9 feet) above sea level. The nation is a string of nearly 1,200 coral islets that span an archipelago 700 kilometers (435 miles) in length. These atolls are surrounded by coral reef systems, creating extensive shallow lagoons that are renowned for their marine biodiversity.
Maldivian culture is a blend of South Asian, Arab, African, and European influences, shaped by its strategic position on ancient trade routes. The official language is Divehi, and Islam is the state religion, deeply influencing daily life, festivals, music, and dance. Traditional music styles such as "Bodu Beru" feature powerful drumming and solo singing. Handicrafts like lacquerwork, mat weaving, and embroidery are also significant.
The islands were first settled around the 5th or 6th century CE, and in 1158 Sultan Al-Amin established the first Muslim sultanate. Over centuries, the Maldives came under the influence of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British before gaining independence in 1965. The 2008 constitution re-established the republic, and since then the country has developed a mixed economy centered on tourism, fishing, and shipping.
Key facts
Population: ~540,000 (2023 estimate)
Capital: Malé, the world's smallest capital city in terms of land area
Official language: Divehi, written in Arabic-based Thaana script
Area: 298 sq km (115 sq mi), making it one of the smallest island nations in the world
Average elevation: 1.5 meters (4.9 feet) above sea level
Tourist industry: Approximately 1.3 million visitors per year as of 2022
UNESCO world heritage sites: The island of Maafushi; the historic sites on Haa Dhaalu Atoll
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
Climate: Tropical monsoon, with a dry season (Dec–Feb) and a wet season (Mar–Nov)
Environment: Coral reefs cover 95% of the coastline; climate change poses significant sea-level rise risks
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
Maldives has a recorded population of approximately 527,799 people.
How big is Maldives?
Maldives covers an area of about 300 km².
What is the population density of Maldives?
Maldives has a population density of roughly 1,759 /km² (people per square kilometre).
What is the GDP of Maldives?
Maldives has a gross domestic product (GDP) of approximately $7.06 billion as of 2024.
What is the GDP per capita of Maldives?
Maldives has a GDP per capita of approximately $13,379.
What currency is used in Maldives?
Maldives uses the Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR), with the symbol Rf.
Where is Maldives located?
Maldives is located in Southern Asia, Asia.
What are people from Maldives called?
People from Maldives are referred to as Maldivian.
What is the phone calling code for Maldives?
The international dialing code for Maldives is +960.
What is the internet domain for Maldives?
The country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Maldives is .mv.
What time zone is Maldives in?
Maldives uses the Indian/Maldives time zone.
What is Maldives known for?
The Maldives, officially the Republic of Maldives, is a tropical paradise located in the Indian Ocean. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, it is a popular destination for honeymooners and divers alike. The country consists of 1,192 coral islands organized into 26 atolls, with only about 200 islands inhabited.
Southern Asia