Top Things to Know About the Maldive’s Culture – Immerse Yourself in the Enchanting Culture of the Maldives

The Maldives is an archipelago comprising 26 coral atolls and over 1,000 islands, with a unique culture shaped by its history, geography, and religious influences. The country is a renowned tourist destination. Famous for its tropical beauty and water sports, the Maldives brings those who visit a memorable experience. The country is also known for its luxury accommodation options. Luxury Maldives villas offered by properties such as Baglioni Resort Maldives, for example, are popular among those who love to soak up the coastal beauty of the islands while indulging in a touch of luxury.

The Maldives has a fascinating historical background that dates back centuries. Early settlers from South Asia and the Arab region contributed to the diverse cultural influences. However, the arrival of Islam in the 12th century had a profound impact on the Maldivian way of life, and it has shaped the culture that you see today.

The Maldivian culture is deeply rooted in tradition, which is evident from its customs and practices. Greeting and hospitality play a significant role, with locals warmly welcoming tourists. The vibrant Bodu Beru music and dance performances offer insights into the cultural heritage of the country. While the traditional fishing boat, known as Dhoni, symbolises the Maldivians' close connection to the sea, traditional arts and crafts, like intricate lacquer work and beautiful handwoven mats, reflect the islanders' creativity.

Maldivian cuisine offers a delightful blend of flavours influenced by South Asian, Arab, and African culinary traditions. Staple food items like rice, fish, coconut, and local vegetables form the foundation of many dishes. The creative use of spices like chilli, curry leaves, and turmeric adds depth and complexity to the flavours. Some popular traditional Maldivian dishes include Garudhiya, Mas huni, and Bis Keemiya. Exploring the local cuisine is a must for anyone visiting the Maldives.

There’s a range of festivals celebrated throughout the year. Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha are two significant religious festivals celebrated by the Maldivians. During these festivals, the locals come together to pray, eat festive food, and exchange gifts. The Maldives also celebrates its National Day and Independence Day with various cultural performances.

Traditional Maldivian clothing reflects cultural heritage and modesty. Men typically wear a sarong-like garment called a mundu, along with a white or coloured shirt known as a kasaba. Women wear a long dress called a fari, paired with a shawl-like garment known as a hajib. However, as a result of modern influences and globalisation, you’ll witness that Western-style clothing has become more common, especially in urban areas and tourist resorts.

The official language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, a language with roots in Indo-Aryan languages. However, English is widely spoken, particularly in tourist areas, which makes communication with locals relatively easy for tourists. In addition to verbal communication, non-verbal cues and gestures also play a significant role when communicating with Maldivians, which is why it’s important that you pay careful attention to their body language.

The Maldivian culture places great emphasis on respect for elders and showing kindness and hospitality to others. It is customary to greet others with a warm smile and a nod of the head. Men and women often maintain separate spaces in public gatherings, and interactions between genders are usually more reserved and respectful. Modesty in behaviour and clothing are highly valued traits in Maldivian society. Tourists are often advised to dress modestly when in public spaces as a mark of respect for the local culture.