The Maldives is a Muslim country with clear rules on alcohol and modest dress, but resorts are relaxed places with their own way of life. This guide brings the rules together in one place, so you know what applies at your resort, on a local island, in Malé and at the airport.
Alcohol at resorts
Resorts are licensed to serve alcohol, so you can enjoy a drink at the bar, with dinner or in your villa. Drinks plans vary, and our meal plans guide explains what all-inclusive plans usually cover.
Where alcohol is not allowed
Alcohol is not sold or allowed on local islands or in Malé, and you cannot take it from your resort to a local island. You also cannot bring alcohol into the Maldives, including duty-free bought on the way. Our customs guide explains the import rules in full.
What to wear at a resort
Resorts are relaxed. Swimwear is fine on the beach, at the pool and on your villa deck. Most guests add a cover-up, sarong or light shirt when walking to breakfast, the bar or the spa. Our packing guide lists what to bring.
Restaurant dress codes
Most resort restaurants are casual by day. In the evening, some restaurants ask for smart casual dress, for example no swimwear and, for men, a shirt and long trousers or smart shorts. Ask the resort if you plan to dine somewhere special.
Local islands, Malé and the airport
On local islands and in Malé, dress modestly: cover your shoulders and knees, and wear swimwear only on designated tourist beaches. At the airport, light, comfortable clothes are fine, and a layer to cover your shoulders is useful if you visit Malé. Our culture and traditions guide explains local customs.
Vaping and smoking
Vaping devices are banned in the Maldives, including for visitors, so leave them at home. Resorts usually have smoking areas, and smoking is not allowed in many indoor spaces. Our customs guide explains the rules.
Quick checklist
- Enjoy alcohol only at your resort.
- Do not pack alcohol, including duty-free.
- Bring a cover-up for walking around the resort.
- Pack a smarter outfit for evenings.
- Cover shoulders and knees on local islands and in Malé.
- Leave vapes at home.
Frequently asked questions
Is alcohol allowed in the Maldives?
Yes, at resorts, which are licensed to serve it. It is not allowed on local islands or in Malé.
Can I bring alcohol into the Maldives?
No. Importing alcohol is not allowed, including duty-free. Resorts serve it under their own licence.
What is the dress code at Maldives resorts?
Relaxed. Swimwear is fine on the beach and at the pool, with a cover-up around the island and smart casual dress at some restaurants in the evening.
What should women wear on local islands?
Clothes that cover shoulders and knees. Swimwear is only for designated tourist beaches.
Is there a dress code at the airport?
No strict code, but light clothes that cover your shoulders are useful if you visit Malé.
Can I vape in the Maldives?
No. Vaping devices are banned, including for visitors.
