1. The Maldives is the lowest-lying country in the world, with an average ground level elevation of just 1.5 meters (4 feet 11 inches) above sea level.
2. Comprised of 26 atolls and over 1,000 coral islands, the Maldives boasts some of the most stunning underwater scenery on the planet, with vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and crystal-clear waters.
3. The capital city of the Maldives, Malรฉ, is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, with a population density of over 27,000 people per square kilometer.
4. The Maldives is renowned for its luxury resorts, many of which are situated on private islands and offer exclusive access to pristine beaches, overwater bungalows, and world-class amenities.
5. Dhivehi is the official language of the Maldives, although English is widely spoken, particularly in the tourism industry.
6. The Maldives is a Muslim-majority country, and Islam is the official religion, with Sunni Islam being practiced by the majority of the population.
7. The Maldives was a British protectorate from 1887 to 1965 before gaining independence as a sultanate. It later transitioned to a republic in 1968.
8. The Maldives is famous for its unique form of government, which is based on a decentralized system of governance known as the “atoll system,” where each inhabited island functions as a separate administrative unit.
9. The Maldives is a global leader in marine conservation and sustainable tourism, with initiatives aimed at protecting coral reefs, marine habitats, and endangered species such as sea turtles and whale sharks.
10. The Maldives is home to the world’s first underwater restaurant, Ithaa, located on the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island resort, offering diners a breathtaking underwater dining experience.
11. The Maldives is a popular destination for honeymooners and couples seeking a romantic getaway, with its secluded beaches, luxurious accommodations, and stunning sunsets.
12. The Maldives has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the wet season (May to October), characterized by monsoon rains and occasional storms.
13. The Maldives has a rich cultural heritage, with influences from South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, reflected in its music, dance, cuisine, and traditional crafts.
14. Traditional Maldivian cuisine features seafood as a staple ingredient, with dishes like mas huni (tuna salad), garudhiya (fish soup), and hedhikaa (deep-fried snacks) being popular among locals and visitors alike.
15. The Maldives is home to the world’s largest known population of manta rays, with several manta ray cleaning stations located around the islands, where these gentle giants gather to be cleaned by small fish.
16. The Maldives is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering world-class diving, snorkeling, surfing, windsurfing, and kayaking opportunities in its pristine waters.
17. The Maldives has a rich tradition of craftsmanship, with artisans skilled in traditional crafts such as lacquerware, mat weaving, wood carving, and dhoni boat building.
18. The Maldives is one of the best places in the world to see bioluminescent plankton, which emit a mesmerizing blue glow when disturbed, creating a magical underwater spectacle.
19. The Maldives has a thriving underwater art scene, with several underwater sculptures and installations located near popular dive sites, providing both artistic and environmental value.
20. The Maldives celebrates its National Day on November 11th, commemorating the day in 1968 when it became a republic and officially gained independence from British rule.
21. The Maldives is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 200 species of birds recorded, including endemic species such as the Maldivian white-eye and the Maldivian scops owl.
