Maldives

Your next halal holiday in paradise awaits in the Maldives! Officially known as the Republic of Maldives, this small island nation is located in the Indian Ocean and consists of a chain of 26 atolls and over 1,000 coral islands, of which only around 200 are inhabited. Picture-perfect views, glistening white sugary sand, and the relaxing sea breeze are just a few of the many things Muslim travellers can expect when travelling to this luxurious halal destination.

A popular tourist getaway for halal honeymoons and Muslim travellers of all ages, the Maldives is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and diverse marine life. The country’s economy is heavily reliant on tourism, with more than a million visitors arriving each year. Particularly popular among honeymooners, scuba divers, and luxury travellers, who come to enjoy the country’s pristine natural beauty and upscale resorts, the Maldives is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for those looking to enjoy a halal trip to one of the most beautiful parts of the world.

Despite its small size, the Maldives is a unique country with a rich history and culture. The Maldivian people have distinct languages, customs, and traditions that have evolved over centuries. Once an important stopover on ancient trade routes, over the years, the Maldives have been influenced by the cultures of neighbouring countries such as India, Sri Lanka, and Indonesia. The country’s history is marked by periods of colonization by European powers, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British before gaining independence in 1965.

It’s also good to note that the Maldives is a predominantly Muslim country, with Islam being the official religion. Muslim families and guests exploring the beautiful tourist destination will find that the Maldivian culture is deeply rooted in the Islamic faith, and the country has a unique blend of traditional and modern Islamic practices. This being so, Muslim travellers looking to explore Islam surrounded by such peaceful and calming beauty will find a luxury home-away-from-home when visiting the Maldives.

Must See in Maldives 

While the Maldives is often associated with luxurious resorts and relaxing getaways, there are plenty of must-see attractions for Muslim travellers to explore during their stay.

Explore the Hukuru Miskiiy Mosque and National Museum in Male City: Male City is the capital and largest city of the Maldives, and it’s a must-see destination for visitors to the country. The city is home to a range of historical and cultural attractions, including the Hukuru Miskiy mosque, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2008 for its unique architecture, its unparalleled historic tradition and the tongue-in-groove technique of its stone structure.

It’s here you’ll also find the National Museum, which offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture.

Witness the Maldives Glowing Beach: A unique natural wonder called the Glowing Beach, or Vaadhoo Island Beach, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Maldives. At night, the waves of the Indian Ocean illuminate the sandy shore with a bluish glow caused by bioluminescent plankton. This magical phenomenon, or what some call miracle of nature, creates a surreal and romantic atmosphere, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Dive deep into the ocean in the Whale Submarine: For those who want to explore the underwater world without getting wet, the Whale Submarine is a must-see attraction in the Maldives. The submarine takes visitors on a tour of the surrounding waters, allowing them to get up close and personal with the vibrant marine life that calls the Maldives home.

Visit the Islands and breathtaking beaches: One of the best ways to explore the Maldives is through island hopping. The country is made up of over 1,000 islands, and each one has its unique charm and beauty. Visitors can explore local communities, try traditional Maldivian halal cuisine, and soak up the sun on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Snorkel and dive in the Banana Reef: This banana-shaped, protected region is situated in the North Male Atoll and ranges in depth from 5 to 30m. Banana Reef is a popular diving site and is home to a diverse range of marine life, including colourful fish, sea turtles, and reef sharks. It is also known for its impressive coral formations, majestic cliffs, and beautiful underwater caves. The calm currents and excellent visibility work perfectly for beginners as well as seasoned divers, allowing Muslim travellers to explore the underwater world in a safe and controlled environment.

Cuisine

Halal cuisine is an integral part of the Maldivian food culture. As a predominantly Muslim country, the Maldives is committed to serving food that is halal and adheres to Islamic dietary laws. Visitors to the Maldives can enjoy a range of delicious halal cuisine, including traditional Maldivian dishes and international cuisine.

Being a small island nation located in the Indian Ocean, the flavours and ingredients of the surrounding waters heavily influence Maldivian cuisine. With its abundance of fresh seafood, it’s no surprise that many of the dishes feature fish and other seafood as their main ingredient. Traditional Maldivian cuisine is a blend of Indian, Sri Lankan, and Arabic influences. It features a variety of spices, coconut milk, and fish, which are stapled ingredients in Maldivian cooking.

Some of the most popular traditional dishes in the Maldives include garudhiya, a fish soup made with fresh tuna, and mas huni, a dish made from shredded smoked fish, grated coconut, and onions. A variety of snacks and street food, such as hedhikaa (often served with a side of chilli sauce for dipping), which are small, savoury snacks made with fish, coconut, and spices, can easily be found when roaming around. Visitors can also try a range of delicious seafood dishes, including grilled fish and prawns, which are typically caught fresh from the surrounding waters.

In addition to traditional Maldivian cuisine, Muslim travellers can indulge themselves in a range of international cuisine, which is also prepared in adherence to Islamic dietary laws. Many of the hotels and resorts in the Maldives offer a range of international cuisine, including Italian, Japanese, and Middle Eastern dishes.

Islam

Islam is the official religion of the Maldives, and the country is one of the few places in the world where 100% of the population is Muslim. The Maldives is a Sunni Muslim country, and the Islamic faith plays a significant role in the daily lives of the Maldivian people.

The Maldives has a unique brand of Islam that is influenced by local customs and traditions. The Maldives’ brand of Islam is based on a mixture of Sunni teachings, Sufism, and local practices. This blend of Islamic teachings and local customs has created a distinct Maldivian Islamic culture that is not found anywhere else in the world.

Islamic practices are an essential part of daily life in the Maldives. The country’s traditions and customs are based on the Islamic faith, and many Maldivians follow the five pillars of Islam. Mosques are also an essential part of the Maldivian landscape, and the call to prayer can be heard throughout the day.

Despite being a predominantly Muslim country, the Maldives is known for its religious tolerance. Visitors to the Maldives are free to practice their own religion, and the country has a small Christian community. However, it is important to respect local customs and traditions when visiting the Maldives, as the Islamic faith plays a significant role in the daily lives of the Maldivian people.

Best time to go

The Maldives is a popular tourist destination that is known for its beautiful beaches, warm waters, and sunny climate. However, the country experiences a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season and the wet season. The best time to travel to the Maldives largely depends on your preferred activities and what you want to experience during your trip.

The dry season in the Maldives runs from December to April and is the most popular time for tourists to visit the country. This is because the weather is sunny, dry, and generally pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 27°C to 31°C. The dry season is an excellent time to visit if you’re looking to experience the Maldives’ beautiful beaches, go scuba diving, and explore the country’s many islands. The waters are clear, and marine life is abundant during this time, making it ideal for underwater activities.

The wet season in the Maldives runs from May to November, and rain, strong winds, and high humidity generally characterize the weather. This is a less popular time to visit, but it’s an excellent time for those who want to experience the Maldives’ unique cultural traditions and local life. Additionally, during the wet season, there are fewer tourists, which means you can enjoy the country’s many attractions with fewer crowds.

Whatever time of year you choose to visit, the Maldives is a stunning halal-friendly destination that offers a unique and memorable travel experience.