The Republic of the Maldives, or the “pearls of the Indian Ocean” as it is popularly know, is a collection of 1,190 coral reef islands situated in the Indian Ocean to the south west of Sri Lanka. The 1,190 islands form an archipelago of 26 major atolls (groups of neighbouring coral islands) stretching 820 km north to south and 120 km east to west.

Only 200 islands are inhabited, with 44 adapted as exclusive holiday resort islands. The country’s 2006 (preliminary) population census shows a total population of 298,842. Over one third of this total reside in the capital Male.

The Maldives is a friendly country with idyllic scenery and a rich culture. The different links on the left provide a short introduction to the country’s history, geography, economy, environment, health and education systems, and participation in international organisations and conventions.

However, the best way to discover the country is to come and visit!