Money & Currency
The official currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). In practice, almost everything in the Maldives is paid and calculated in US Dollars — especially in resorts and guesthouses.
Exchange Rate
1 USD ≈ 15.4 MVR (relatively stable). 1 EUR ≈ 16.8 MVR (as of 2025/26).
Payment Methods
- Resorts: Everything is charged to the room number and paid at checkout. Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted everywhere. Cash is unnecessary.
- Local Islands: Smaller guesthouses and local restaurants often only accept cash — US Dollars or MVR. Larger guesthouses also accept cards. ATMs are available in Malé, Hulhumalé, and some larger local islands (Maafushi), but not everywhere.
- Malé: ATMs from the Bank of Maldives (BML) at many locations. Credit cards accepted in larger stores.
Tipping
In resorts, a 10% service charge is automatically added to all bills (plus 16% GST). Additional tipping is not expected but appreciated — especially for butlers, housekeeping, and boat crew. Common: $5–10 per day for room service. On local islands, tipping is not customary but gratefully accepted (rounding up is sufficient).
Taxes & Hidden Costs
| Charge | Amount | Where | Due |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green Tax | $6/person/night | Resorts + Guesthouses | At checkout |
| GST (Goods & Services Tax) | 16% | All bills in resorts | Automatically added |
| Service Charge | 10% | Resorts | Automatically added |
| Departure Tax | Included in the flight ticket | Airport | At ticket purchase |
Calculation Example: A dinner for $100 in the resort actually costs: 100 + 10% service (10 $) + 16% GST (17.60 $) = $127.60. An important factor in budget planning!
💡 Tipp
Take $200–300 in cash to local islands — for smaller guesthouses, excursion bookings, and tips. On Maafushi, there is an ATM from the Bank of Maldives, but it is often empty. In resorts, you don't need cash.
