The Maldives is a tropical nation in the Indian Ocean consisting of 26 atolls made up of more than 1,000 coral islands. It is known for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life, making it a popular destination for tourists around the world. The capital city is Male, which is located on the island of the same name. The Maldives is a Muslim country, and its culture is heavily influenced by its Indian and Arab neighbors. Fishing, tourism, and shipping are the main industries, and the country is vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including rising sea levels and coral bleaching. The official language is Dhivehi, although English is widely spoken, and the currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa.

ABOUT

The Republic of Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. Comprising of 26 atolls, the Maldives is known for its stunning coral reefs, crystal clear waters, and white sandy beaches. The capital city, Malé, is the most populated city in the country. The Maldives is one of the world’s most geographically dispersed sovereign states, with a land area of 298 square kilometres and a total area of 90,000 square kilometres including the sea.

The Maldivian Archipelago is situated on the Chagos-Laccadive Ridge, a vast submarine mountain range, forming a terrestrial ecoregion with the Chagos Archipelago and Lakshadweep. The Maldives is the world’s lowest-lying country, with an average ground-level elevation of 1.5 metres above sea level and a highest natural point of only 2.4 metres.

Islam reached the Maldivian Archipelago in the 12th century, and it was consolidated as a sultanate with strong commercial and cultural ties with Asia and Africa. The region came under the increasing influence of European colonial powers from the mid-16th century, and the Maldives became a British protectorate in 1887. The country gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1965 and established a presidential republic in 1968.

Despite political instability, efforts at democratic reform, and environmental challenges posed by climate change and rising sea levels, the Maldives has made significant progress. The country is a founding member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation and a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, and the Non-Aligned Movement. The Maldives has an upper-middle-income economy and has historically relied on fishing as its dominant economic activity. However, the tourism industry is rapidly growing and is now the second-largest sector in the country. The Maldives rates “high” on the Human Development Index and has per capita income significantly higher than other SAARC nations.

NAME AND ETYMOLOGY

Legends state that the initial inhabitants of the Maldives were a group of people known as Dheyvis. The first kingdom in the Maldives was named Dheeva Maari. In the 3rd century BCE, when emissaries visited, the Maldives was referred to as Dheeva Mahal. During the period between c. 1100 – 1166, the Maldives was also called Diva Kudha, while the Laccadive archipelago, which was part of the Maldives, was referred to as Diva Kanbar by al-Biruni (973–1048), a scholar and polymath.

The name Maldives may come from the Sanskrit words माला mālā (garland) and द्वीप dvīpa (island), or මාල දිවයින Maala Divaina (“Necklace Islands”) in Sinhala. The Maldivian people are called Dhivehin, and the term Dheeb/Deeb (archaic Dhivehi, related to Sanskrit द्वीप, dvīpa) means “island”, while Dhives (Dhivehin) means “islanders” or Maldivians. In Tamil, “Garland of Islands” can be translated as Maalai Theevu.

The ancient Sri Lankan chronicle Mahawamsa refers to an island called Mahiladiva (“Island of Women”, महिलादिभ) in Pali, which may be a mistranslation of the same Sanskrit word meaning “garland”. Jan Hogendorn, a professor at Colby College, theorized that the name Maldives comes from the Sanskrit mālādvīpa (मालाद्वीप), meaning “garland of islands”. In Malayalam, “Garland of Islands” can be translated as Maladweepu, while in Kannada, “Garland of Islands” can be translated as Maaledweepa. None of these names are mentioned in any literature, but classical Sanskrit texts dating back to the Vedic period mention the “Hundred Thousand Islands” (Lakshadweepa), a generic name which would include not only the Maldives, but also the Laccadives, Aminidivi Islands, Minicoy, and the Chagos island groups.

Medieval Arab travelers like Ibn Battuta referred to the islands as Maḥal Dībīyāt (محل ديبية) from the Arabic word maḥal (“palace”). This is the name currently inscribed on the scroll in the Maldives state emblem. The classical Persian/Arabic name for the Maldives is Dibajat. The Dutch referred to the islands as the Maldivische Eilanden, while the British anglicized the local name for the islands first to the “Maldive Islands” and later to “Maldives.”

In a book published in 1563, Garcia da Orta writes that the natives do not call it Maldiva but Nalediva. In the Malabar language, nale means four and diva island, meaning “four islands”, while the name Maldiva was a corruption of the original name.

HISTORY

The Maldives has a long and rich history dating back over 2,500 years, as evidenced by historical records and legends. The country’s early settlers were likely Gujaratis who reached and settled in Sri Lanka around 500 BCE. Evidence of cultural influence from North India can be seen in the methods of boatbuilding and silver punch-marked coins.

The Mahāvaṃsa, a 3rd-century BCE Sri Lankan text, mentions people from Sri Lanka emigrating to the Maldives. Historians believe that there may have been people living in the Maldives during the Indus Valley civilization (3300–1300 BCE) based on the presence of cowrie shells from the region.

Hinduism was present in the Maldives before the Islamic period, as evidenced by a number of artifacts. The first settlers of the Maldives were known as Dheyvis and came from Kalibanga in India before Emperor Asoka’s kingdom (269–232 BCE).

The ancient history of the Maldives is recorded in copperplates, ancient scripts carved on coral artifacts, traditions, language, and the different ethnicities of Maldivians. The first Maldivians did not leave any archaeological artifacts. Their buildings were likely constructed of wood, palm fronds, and other perishable materials that would have quickly decayed in the salt and wind of the tropical climate.

Comparative studies of Maldivian oral, linguistic, and cultural traditions confirm that the first settlers were people from the southern shores of the neighbouring Indian subcontinent, including the Giraavaru people. The influence of Dravidian and North Indian cultures is still present in Maldivian society, with a clear Elu substratum in the language, which also appears in place names, kinship terms, poetry, dance, and religious beliefs.

The Maldive Islands were mentioned in ancient Sangam Tamil Literature as “Munneer Pazhantheevam” or “Older Islands of Three Seas.” The Malabar and Pandya seafaring cultures led to the settlement of the islands by Tamil and Malabar seafarers.

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

The Maldives is a presidential representative democratic republic, with the president as the head of state and government. The president is directly elected by the people for a five-year term and is assisted by a cabinet of ministers appointed by the president.

The unicameral parliament of the Maldives is called the People’s Majlis, which consists of 87 members elected for a five-year term through a mixed system of first-past-the-post and proportional representation. The People’s Majlis is responsible for passing laws, approving the national budget, and overseeing the actions of the executive branch.

The judiciary system of the Maldives is composed of the Supreme Court, High Court, and lower courts. The president appoints judges with the approval of the People’s Majlis. The judiciary is responsible for interpreting the constitution and laws, adjudicating disputes, and ensuring justice is served.

Political parties were not allowed in the Maldives until 2005, when President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom legalized them. Since then, several political parties have emerged, with the largest being the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) and the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM).

The Maldives has experienced political turmoil in recent years, with the 2018 presidential elections resulting in a change of government for the first time in 30 years. The current president, Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, was elected in 2018, defeating the incumbent president, Abdulla Yameen. The Maldives is currently undergoing democratic reforms to strengthen its institutions and promote greater transparency and accountability.

ECONOMY

The Maldives has a relatively small economy, with tourism being the largest contributor to the country’s GDP. Fisheries and agriculture also play a significant role in the economy, providing employment and income for many Maldivians.

Tourism is the main industry in the Maldives, accounting for approximately 28% of the country’s GDP and employing over a third of the population. The country’s pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life make it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. The government has implemented policies to encourage foreign investment in the tourism industry, including the development of resorts and other tourist facilities.

Fisheries are another important sector of the Maldivian economy, providing employment for many people in the country, particularly in rural areas. The country’s location in the Indian Ocean has made it a hub for tuna fishing, and the government has implemented policies to promote sustainable fishing practices.

Agriculture is a smaller sector of the economy, but it still plays an important role in providing food for the population. The main crops grown in the Maldives include coconuts, bananas, and papayas. The government has implemented policies to encourage agricultural development, particularly in the area of food security.

The Maldives has a high level of dependence on imports for food and other goods, due in part to the country’s small size and limited resources. The government has implemented policies to reduce this dependence, including initiatives to increase local food production and to promote import substitution.

Overall, the Maldivian economy faces a number of challenges, including limited resources, a small domestic market, and vulnerability to external shocks such as climate change and global economic fluctuations. However, the government has implemented policies to promote economic growth and development, and the country remains a popular destination for tourism and investment.

GEOGRAPHY

The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean, southwest of India and Sri Lanka. It consists of a chain of 26 atolls, which are made up of more than 1,000 coral islands. The atolls are formed by coral reefs that surround a lagoon, with some of the atolls rising no more than six feet above sea level.

The Maldives has a total land area of only about 300 square kilometers (116 square miles), making it one of the smallest countries in Asia. The capital and largest city is Malé, which is located on the island of the same name in the Kaafu Atoll.

The Maldives has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season from December to April, and the wet season from May to November. Temperatures typically range from 24°C to 33°C (75°F to 91°F) throughout the year.

Due to its location and geography, the Maldives is known for its stunning natural beauty, including crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Tourism is the country’s main industry, and the Maldives is renowned for its luxury resorts, water sports, and diving opportunities.

TRANSPORT

Transportation in the Maldives primarily involves boats, seaplanes, and domestic flights. As the Maldives is an archipelago of over 1,190 coral islands, water transport is the most common mode of transportation for both goods and people. Boats are used for inter-island travel, while seaplanes and domestic flights connect the islands with the main Velana International Airport located in Hulhulé Island, near the capital city of Malé.

The government of Maldives has invested in developing the transportation infrastructure to support the country’s tourism industry, which is the main source of foreign currency earnings. There are several domestic airlines operating in the country, such as Maldivian and FlyMe, providing regular flights to the inhabited islands. Seaplane operators such as Trans Maldivian Airways (TMA) provide transfer services between resorts and the airport.

Boats are the most common mode of transportation among locals, and there are various types of boats available in the Maldives, including traditional Maldivian boats known as “dhonis,” speedboats, and yachts. The government has also invested in building harbors and jetties in many of the inhabited islands to facilitate boat travel.

Overall, transportation in the Maldives is an important aspect of the country’s economy and its unique island lifestyle.

INDUSTRY SECTORS

The economy of Maldives is primarily based on tourism and fishing. Tourism is the largest industry and the main source of foreign exchange for the country. The government has actively encouraged the growth of the tourism industry, which has led to the development of luxury resorts on many of the country’s atolls.

The fishing industry is also important, particularly for the domestic market, but it has been declining in recent years due to overfishing and the impacts of climate change. The government is trying to diversify the economy by promoting other industries, such as agriculture and handicrafts, but these sectors remain relatively small.

The country also has a small manufacturing sector, which is mainly focused on the processing of fish and other marine products, as well as the production of handicrafts and other artisanal products. The government has been trying to attract foreign investment to develop the country’s manufacturing sector, but progress has been slow.

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the potential for renewable energy in Maldives, particularly solar power, as a way to reduce the country’s reliance on imported fossil fuels. The government has set a target of generating 30% of the country’s electricity from renewable sources by 2025, and there have been several initiatives to develop solar power projects on the country’s many islands.

Overall, the Maldives is a small economy that is heavily dependent on tourism and fishing, with limited opportunities for other industries to develop. The government is working to diversify the economy and promote sustainable development, but these efforts face significant challenges due to the country’s small size, isolation, and vulnerability to climate change.

DEMOGRAPHICS

The Maldives has a population of approximately 530,000 people, according to 2021 estimates. The population is predominantly Sunni Muslim and the official language is Dhivehi. The capital and largest city, Malé, has a population of around 200,000 people.

The Maldives is a young country, with over 40% of its population under the age of 18. Life expectancy is relatively high at around 78 years. The population growth rate is around 4.8%, one of the highest in the world.

The Maldives is a multicultural society with influences from India, Sri Lanka, Arabia and East Africa. The majority of the population is of Maldivian ethnicity, with small numbers of expatriate workers from countries such as India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.

The literacy rate in the Maldives is around 98%, one of the highest in the region. Education is free and compulsory for children aged 6 to 16. The government has invested heavily in education, with a focus on improving literacy and providing vocational training. However, there are concerns about the quality of education, particularly in rural areas.

The Maldives has a relatively high standard of living compared to other countries in South Asia. However, there are significant disparities in wealth and income between the capital and the outer islands. The government has launched initiatives to address these disparities and promote economic development in the outer islands.

EDUCATION

Education in Maldives is overseen by the Ministry of Education and is free and compulsory for all children between the ages of 6 and 16. The education system in Maldives consists of pre-school education, primary education, secondary education, and higher education.

Pre-school education is for children between the ages of 3 and 5, and it is not compulsory. Primary education begins at age 6 and lasts for 7 years. Secondary education is divided into lower secondary and upper secondary education. Lower secondary education lasts for 3 years, and upper secondary education lasts for 2 years. After completing secondary education, students can choose to attend higher education institutions in Maldives or abroad.

The literacy rate in Maldives is high, with over 98% of the population being able to read and write. The government has made efforts to improve the quality of education in the country by providing better training and support for teachers, and by increasing the budget allocated for education.

In addition to the public education system, there are also several private schools and international schools in Maldives. These schools follow different curriculums such as the British, American, or Indian curriculum, and they often offer instruction in English.

Maldives National University is the only public university in the country, and it offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. There are also several private colleges and institutions that offer higher education programs in various fields such as business, engineering, and tourism.

HEALTHCARE

The Maldives has a relatively well-developed healthcare system for a small island nation. The Ministry of Health is responsible for overseeing healthcare services in the country.

There are hospitals, health centers, and clinics located in various islands of the country. The largest hospital is the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) located in the capital city of Malé. It is a tertiary care hospital that provides specialized medical services such as cardiology, neurology, and orthopedics.

There are also a number of private healthcare facilities in the Maldives, offering a range of medical services.

In recent years, the Maldives has made significant progress in improving healthcare outcomes. The country has achieved near-universal access to basic healthcare services, and infant and maternal mortality rates have declined.

However, challenges remain, particularly in terms of access to specialized medical services and the availability of medical professionals in certain areas of the country. The government has plans to address these challenges by investing in healthcare infrastructure and training more healthcare professionals.

The Maldives also has a public health program that focuses on preventing and controlling communicable diseases such as dengue fever and tuberculosis. The government works closely with international organizations such as the World Health Organization to implement these programs.

CULTURE

The culture of the Maldives is a blend of South Indian, Sinhalese and Arab influences, shaped by its location as a crossroads in the Indian Ocean. The country has a rich history of seafaring, fishing, and maritime trade, which is reflected in its traditional music, dance, and art.

Islam is the dominant religion in the Maldives, and the country has a conservative and modest culture. Dress codes are conservative, and men and women often wear traditional dress. Public displays of affection are discouraged, and alcohol is prohibited except in designated tourist areas.

The Maldives is known for its traditional music and dance forms, including bodu beru, a form of drumming, and thaara, a type of dance performed by women. Traditional arts and crafts include weaving, mat-making, and lacquer work. The country also has a rich literary heritage, with a number of historical texts written in the local Dhivehi language.

The Maldives is home to a number of festivals and celebrations, including Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, which are important Muslim holidays. The country also celebrates the National Day of the Maldives, Independence Day, and Victory Day, which mark significant events in the country’s history. Additionally, the Maldives hosts a number of cultural events, including the Maldives Film Awards, which celebrates the country’s emerging film industry.

Tourism has played a significant role in shaping the culture of the Maldives, and the country has developed a reputation for luxury resorts and world-class diving and snorkeling opportunities. Many of the resorts offer cultural experiences, such as traditional music and dance performances, cooking classes, and visits to local villages.

Overall, the culture of the Maldives is shaped by its location as a maritime crossroads and its Islamic heritage, as well as its modern development as a world-renowned tourist destination.

NATURAL RESOURCES

The Maldives is a country with very limited natural resources. The primary resources of the country are its fisheries and marine environment. The Maldives has a large Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of approximately 923,000 square kilometers, which is roughly 274 times larger than its land area. The country’s EEZ is rich in marine resources such as tuna, reef fish, and shrimp, which are important for the country’s economy.

Apart from fisheries, the Maldives has limited natural resources. The country is heavily dependent on imports for most of its basic needs, including food, water, and energy. The Maldives has no significant mineral resources, and there is no mining industry in the country. The Maldives does have some potential for renewable energy, including wind and solar power, but these sources of energy are not yet fully utilized.

In recent years, the Maldives has also been affected by the impact of climate change and rising sea levels. The country is vulnerable to natural disasters such as flooding and coastal erosion, which can have significant impacts on its economy and population. The government has taken steps to address these challenges, including investing in adaptation measures and promoting sustainable development practices.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

The Maldives faces several environmental issues, mainly due to its vulnerability to climate change and its low-lying island geography.

One of the biggest environmental threats is rising sea levels, which could eventually lead to the displacement of the entire population. Climate change also contributes to more frequent and severe natural disasters such as flooding and storms, causing damage to infrastructure and threatening the livelihoods of the Maldivian people.

The Maldives also faces challenges in protecting its fragile marine environment. Overfishing and destructive fishing practices have led to declines in fish populations and damage to coral reefs. Additionally, the country generates a significant amount of waste, and there is a lack of proper waste management infrastructure. This has led to problems such as litter on beaches and pollution of the marine environment.

To address these issues, the Maldivian government has implemented various policies and initiatives such as the promotion of renewable energy, establishment of marine protected areas, and waste management programs. The country has also been vocal on the global stage about the urgent need for action on climate change and has committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.

HUMAN RIGHTS

The Maldives has made significant progress in human rights in recent years, but there are still some concerns that remain.

One of the biggest human rights issues in the Maldives is the restriction of freedom of expression. While there is a constitution that guarantees freedom of expression, there are laws that criminalize defamation and criticism of religion. This has led to a number of cases where journalists, bloggers, and social media users have been arrested and charged with these offenses.

There are also concerns about the treatment of migrant workers in the Maldives. Many workers are brought into the country to work in the tourism industry, but they often face exploitation, including low pay, long hours, and poor living conditions. There have been reports of physical and sexual abuse of migrant workers, and there are limited legal protections for these workers.

In addition, there are concerns about the treatment of women and the LGBT community in the Maldives. While women have legal rights, including the right to vote and run for office, there are still issues with gender-based violence and discrimination. The LGBT community faces significant discrimination and harassment, and same-sex relationships are illegal in the country.

Overall, while there have been some improvements in human rights in the Maldives, there are still significant concerns that need to be addressed.

FOODS

Maldivian cuisine is largely based on seafood, coconut, and starches such as rice and cassava. Tuna is the most common seafood used in Maldivian dishes, and it is usually served in the form of a curry or a dry preparation called “mas riha.” Other popular seafood options include octopus, squid, and reef fish.

Coconut is used in many Maldivian dishes, and it is often grated and used as a garnish or as a main ingredient in curries. One of the most popular Maldivian dishes is “garudhiya,” a clear fish broth made with tuna, onions, chili, and curry leaves, which is typically served with rice, lime, and chili paste.

Starchy staples such as rice, cassava, and breadfruit are also commonly eaten in the Maldives. “Roshi,” a thin and flatbread similar to Indian roti, is a staple in Maldivian cuisine and is often served with curries.

Maldivian cuisine also includes a variety of snacks and desserts, including “bajiyaa,” deep-fried snacks filled with fish or vegetables, and “foni boakiba,” a sweet and sticky dessert made from rice flour and coconut.

In recent years, Maldivian cuisine has become more diverse, with influences from other South Asian and Southeast Asian cuisines, as well as Western cuisine. Many resorts in the Maldives offer a wide range of international cuisine, catering to tourists from all over the world.

TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Maldives is known for its picturesque beaches, clear blue waters, and rich marine life, making it a popular tourist destination. Some of the top travel destinations in the Maldives include:

• Male – The capital city of Maldives, which offers a blend of traditional and modern culture.
• Hulhumale – A man-made island near Male, known for its beautiful beaches and water sports activities.
• Veligandu Island Beach – A private island known for its luxurious overwater bungalows and pristine beaches.
• Alimatha Island – An island known for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life.
• Maafushi Island – A budget-friendly island that offers a range of water sports activities and cultural experiences.
• Biyadhoo Island – A small island known for its coral reefs and scuba diving opportunities.
• Baros Island – A secluded island that offers privacy and luxury, with overwater bungalows and a range of water activities.
• Mirihi Island – A small island known for its coral reefs and clear waters, offering great snorkeling and diving opportunities.
• Sun Island Beach – A private island that offers a range of water activities and relaxation options, with a focus on sustainability and eco-friendliness.
• Dhigali Island – A relatively new island that offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, with a range of activities and a spa.
• Fihalhohi Island – An island known for its stunning beaches and crystal clear waters, offering snorkeling and diving opportunities.
• Reethi Beach – A popular island known for its picturesque beaches and water activities, including a diving school.
• Olhuveli Beach & Spa Maldives – An island that offers luxury and relaxation, with a range of activities and a spa.
• Vaadhoo Island – An island that is famous for its bioluminescent plankton, which creates a stunning natural light show at night.
• Nalaguraidhoo Island – A small island that offers snorkeling and diving opportunities, as well as a range of other water activities.
• Addu City – A group of islands in the southern part of the Maldives that offer a range of activities and cultural experiences.
• Villingili Island – A luxury island that offers privacy and relaxation, with a range of activities and a spa.
• Kuredu Island – An island that offers a range of activities, including diving, fishing, and water sports.
• Komandoo Island – A small island that offers privacy and luxury, with overwater bungalows and a range of water activities.
• Thoddoo Island – An island that is known for its agricultural production, including fruits and vegetables, as well as its beaches and water activities.

CELEBRITIES

The Maldives has attracted many celebrities over the years, drawn to the pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and seclusion offered by the island nation. Some notable celebrities who have visited or vacationed in the Maldives include:

• Beyoncé and Jay-Z
• David and Victoria Beckham
• Cristiano Ronaldo
• Kate Winslet
• Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes
• Naomi Campbell
• Leonardo DiCaprio
• Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas
• Gigi Hadid and Zayn Malik
• Michael Phelps
• Paris Hilton
• Cara Delevingne
• Shakira
• Jennifer Hawkins
• Eva Longoria
• Kendall Jenner
• Bella Hadid
• Rita Ora
• Justin Bieber
• Ellen DeGeneres and Portia de Rossi

These celebrities have visited the Maldives for various reasons, from romantic getaways to family vacations and even filming projects. The Maldives is a popular destination for those seeking privacy and luxury, making it a prime location for celebrities to relax and unwind.

NEWSPAPERS

There are several newspapers in Maldives that are published in Dhivehi, the official language of the country. Some of the major newspapers in Maldives include:

• Avas.mv: A popular online news portal in Dhivehi language that covers a wide range of topics including politics, business, sports, and entertainment.
• Mihaaru: One of the largest newspapers in Maldives, published both in print and online, and covers local and international news.
• Raajje.mv: A news portal that provides news in Dhivehi language, with a focus on local news and events.
• Vaguthu: A government-owned daily newspaper published in Dhivehi language, covering politics, business, and current affairs.
• Sun.mv: An online news portal that covers a range of topics including politics, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle.
• Haveeru Daily: One of the oldest newspapers in Maldives, published in Dhivehi language, and covers news from the country and around the world.

These are some of the major newspapers in Maldives, and they provide a comprehensive coverage of news and events from the country and the world.

TV CHANNELS

There are several TV channels available in the Maldives, both free-to-air and subscription-based. Here are some of the popular ones:

• Public Service Media (PSM) – the national broadcaster of the Maldives, operating four channels: TVM, MBC, MBC2, and MBC Youth.
• Raajje TV – a privately-owned news and current affairs channel.
• VTV – a privately-owned entertainment and news channel.
• DhiTV – a privately-owned news and current affairs channel.
• Channel 13 – a privately-owned channel broadcasting news, current affairs, and entertainment.
• MNBC One – a privately-owned channel that broadcasts news, current affairs, and entertainment in the Dhivehi language.

There are also several international channels available through cable and satellite, including CNN, BBC World News, and Al Jazeera.

RADIO

There are several radio stations in the Maldives that broadcast in the Dhivehi language, which is the official language of the country. Some of the popular radio stations in the Maldives include:

• Voice of Maldives (VOM) – This is the national radio station of the Maldives and is owned and operated by the government.
• Sun FM – This is a private radio station that broadcasts a mix of local and international music, news, and talk shows.
• DhiFM – This is another private radio station that broadcasts a mix of music, news, and talk shows.
• Raajje FM – This is a popular private radio station that is known for its news and current affairs programming.
• YES FM – This is a private radio station that broadcasts a mix of local and international music, as well as news and talk shows.
• Nuvemathi FM – This is a private radio station that broadcasts a mix of music, news, and talk shows, with a focus on youth-oriented programming.
• Far East Broadcasting Associates (FEBA) – This is a Christian radio station that broadcasts in several languages, including Dhivehi, and provides religious programming.

These are just a few of the radio stations that are available in the Maldives. Each station offers a unique mix of programming that caters to different interests and audiences.

FACTS

Here are some facts about the Maldives:

• The Maldives is an island nation located in the Indian Ocean.
• The Maldives is the smallest Asian country in terms of land area and population.
• The Maldives consists of 26 atolls and more than 1,000 islands.
• The Maldives has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round.
• The Maldives has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, with crystal-clear waters and white sand.
• The Maldives is a popular destination for honeymooners and luxury travelers.
• The Maldives has a literacy rate of over 98%, one of the highest in the world.
• The Maldives has two official languages: Dhivehi and English.
• The Maldives is predominantly Muslim, and Islamic law is the basis of the legal system.
• The Maldives has a president who serves as both head of state and head of government.
• The Maldives is a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, and the World Trade Organization.
• The Maldives has a rapidly growing economy, with tourism and fishing as the primary industries.
• The Maldives has a unique system of guesthouses called “island resorts,” which are located on private islands and cater to tourists.
• The Maldives has one of the highest divorce rates in the world, with over 10% of marriages ending in divorce.
• The Maldives is home to a number of endangered species, including sea turtles, whales, and dolphins.
• The Maldives is at risk of being submerged by rising sea levels due to climate change.
• The Maldives has a strict dress code for visitors, with modest clothing required in public places.
• The Maldives is known for its spicy cuisine, with seafood and coconut milk featuring heavily in many dishes.
• The Maldives is a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling due to its clear waters and diverse marine life.
• The Maldives was once a British protectorate and gained independence in 1965.
• The Maldives has a relatively young population, with over 50% of people under the age of 25.
• The Maldives has a low crime rate and is considered one of the safest countries in the world.
• The Maldives is home to a number of luxury resorts, with some villas featuring their own private pools and butler service.
• The Maldives is one of the few countries in the world with no army.
• The Maldives has a national airline called Maldivian.
• The Maldives has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional music and dance still practiced today.
• The Maldives has a unique form of boat called the dhoni, which is used for transportation and fishing.
• The Maldives has a high cost of living due to its remote location and reliance on imports.
• The Maldives is home to a number of international airports, with the main one located in the capital city of Male.
• The Maldives is known for its stunning sunsets, which can be enjoyed from many of the island resorts.