The Maldives is a tropical nation made up of over 1,000 coral islands. In addition to its beaches, the Maldives is also home to popular tourist destinations such as the National Museum, Utheemu Ganduvaru, the Grand Friday Mosque and Islamic Centre, and Hukuru Miskiiy.
The standards for patient care and medical services in the Maldives may differ from your home country. The Maldives has both public and private health sectors, but medical care typically does not meet international standards. There are only a few fully equipped hospitals on Malé and healthcare throughout the rest of the country is very limited. Most resorts have a doctor on site but travel to Malé is required for more serious concerns. There is no medical school in the Maldives so doctors either receive training abroad or are expatriates.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals in the Maldives typically require upfront payment in cash, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Due to limited healthcare services, medical evacuation to Thailand is common for serious health emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance, including evacuation. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in the Maldives.
Pharmacies can typically be found on larger and central islands such as Malé. Some smaller islands do not have populations large enough to support a pharmacy. There’s generally an adequate supply of medicines available but specific medicines may be in short supply or require importation.
If you are travelling with medication, check with the Maldives’ embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Roads in the Maldives are generally in good condition, however most visitors travel by boat or sea plane. Driving occurs on the left-hand side of the road. Motorcycle drivers and passengers should wear a helmet at all times.