If you’re planning a trip to this Indian Ocean paradise, it’s important to understand how money works in the Maldives. From the local currency to payment methods, tipping etiquette and whether you’ll need cash on local islands, this guide answers all your questions about spending money in the Maldives – perfect for families, couples, and adventure seekers looking for a hassle-free holiday.
Maldives Currency
What is the Currency in the Maldives?
The official currency of the Maldives is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), sometimes written as Rf or ރ.
- 1 AUD is approximately 10.11 MVR (exchange rates vary).
- Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 25 and 50 laari (100 laari = 1 rufiyaa).
- Banknotes: 10, 20, 50, 100, 500 and 1,000 MVR.
However, US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted, especially on resort islands and in tourist areas. Many prices at resorts are listed in USD, and change is often given in USD.
What payment methods are accepted in the Maldives?
Most resorts, hotels and upscale restaurants accept major credit and debit cards, including:
- Visa.
- Mastercard.
- American Express (check ahead, as it’s not accepted everywhere).
Contactless payments are also increasingly available at resorts and in larger businesses.
Do I need cash on local islands?
Yes, cash is essential when visiting local inhabited islands, small shops, cafés and markets.
- Many places do not accept cards.
- Some guesthouses and local tour operators may require payment in cash (either MVR or USD).
- Keep small denominations for ease of use.
Are there ATMs in the Maldives?
Yes, there are ATMs in the Maldives, but their availability is limited depending on your location.
Where you’ll find ATMs:
- Malé (the capital) has ATMs widely available.
- Velana International Airport.
- Some larger inhabited islands like Maafushi and Hulhumalé.
Where you won’t find ATMs:
- Most resort islands.
- Remote local islands.
ATMs dispense Maldivian Rufiyaa only. If you need cash in USD, it’s best to bring it with you or withdraw in advance before reaching your island resort.
Can I exchange currency on resort islands?
Some resorts offer currency exchange services, but:
- Exchange rates may not be favourable.
- Options may be limited to major currencies like USD, EUR or GBP.
- It’s best to exchange money at the airport, in Malé, or at an official exchange bureau before heading to your resort.
Bring clean, undamaged USD bills, as some places may reject old or marked notes.
Are prices fixed, or can you bargain?
In most resorts, hotels and restaurants, prices are fixed. However, on local islands and in markets, especially when shopping for:
- Souvenirs.
- Handicrafts.
- Local clothing or snacks.
Politely negotiate or bargain, especially if you’re buying more than one item. Bargaining is expected to be friendly and respectful; it’s not overly aggressive like in some other countries.
Is tipping expected in the Maldives?
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated, especially in the hospitality industry where staff work hard to provide exceptional service. Here are some general tipping guidelines:
- Porters: One to two dollars per bag.
- Housekeeping: Two to five dollars per day.
- Waitstaff (at resorts): Five to ten dollars per meal, if a service charge is not included.
- Excursion guides or dive instructors: Ten to twenty dollars per activity.
- Spa therapists: Ten to fifteen percent of the service.
Many resorts include a ten percent service charge in your bill, but extra tips for outstanding service go a long way and are often shared among staff.
Final currency tips for a stress-free Maldives trip
- Bring a mix of USD cash and cards.
- Exchange some money into Maldivian Rufiyaa if visiting local islands.
- Keep small notes for tipping and small purchases.
- Let your bank know you’re traveling to avoid card blocks.
- Always check if taxes and service charges are included in your resort bills.
Enjoy your Maldives trip, we’ll handle the details
Whether you’re exploring local islands, enjoying a luxury resort or travelling with family, we’ll help you navigate every detail, including currency and payment advice, so you can travel with confidence. Contact a My Maldives Travel Expert today and start planning your dream holiday.
