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Country Commercial Guides for FY 2000: Maldives Report prepared by U.S. Embassy Colombo, Sri Lanka, released July 1999   Note*

CHAPTER VIII

BUSINESS TRAVEL

A passport is required for entry to the Maldives. Tourist/business visas (of 30-day validity) are issued on arrival to all visitors at no charge. Visitors must have proof on onward/return transportation and sufficient funds. For further information, travelers should contact the Maldives Mission to the United Nations in New York, telephone (212) 599-6195, or the Embassy of Maldives in Sri Lanka, at 25 Melbourne Avenue, Colombo 4, telephone (94)(1)-580076, 586762, 500943, 500301.

English is the business language in the Maldives. Friday is a public holiday, so all government offices, banks and most businesses are closed. Banks are also closed on Saturdays. Government offices are open 0730 to 1430 from Saturday through Thursday.

The capital of Male' has several hotels, and business visitors may also stay at resort islands (such as Kurumba and Bandos) near Male'. Most transportation in the Maldives is by boat or seaplane. Only a few of the islands are big enough to support automobiles. In Male', vehicle traffic moves on the left (British style). Radio taxis are available, but many offices are within walking distance of one another. Transportation between the airport and Male', as well as nearby resort islands, is by motorized water taxis called dhonis. Some resorts operate speedboats for their guests, and several local companies provide air taxi service by seaplane and helicopter to outlying islands. Air taxis stop flying one hour before sunset.

There is a low rate of crime in the Maldives, though petty crime does exist. Medical facilities are limited and some medicine may be unavailable. Doctors and clinics often require immediate cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Supplemental coverage which specifically covers overseas treatment has proven useful.

Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of the country in which they travel. As an Islamic republic, Maldives prohibits Visitors to the Maldives are prohibited by law from bringing alcohol, pork products, or religious icons, into the country. Alcoholic beverages are available, however, on the resort islands. Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.