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Few scams

Southern Asia

Tourist scams in Maldives

Crime levels are relatively low at resort hotels, but theft from beaches and hotel rooms does happen. Money risks include expensive drinks, marked-up souvenirs and poor exchange rates in shops. These pricing risks do not, by themselves, prove fraud.
  1. 1 Food and drinkCommonHigh resort drink pricesBottled water can be very expensive at resorts. Alcohol at licensed venues also usually carries a steep markup. These are pricing risks, rather than evidence of a dishonest charge.Resorts; alcohol also carries steep markups on licensed liveaboards and at Hulhulé Island Hotel. 3Read
  2. 2 ShoppingCommonMarked-up imported souvenirsItems sold as souvenirs on local-island excursions are typically made outside the Maldives and sold at significant markups. A local shopping stop does not mean the goods were made locally.Handicraft shops on local islands visited during resort excursions. 2Read
  3. 3 Changing moneyOccasionalPoor dollar exchange rates in shopsShops may convert US dollars at either Rf15 or Rf10 per dollar. At the lower rate, your dollars buy much less. A poor rate is not necessarily a hidden or fraudulent charge.Shops accepting payment in US dollars. 2Read
  4. 4 TheftOccasionalTheft of unattended valuablesGoods left unattended on beaches or in hotel rooms can be stolen. Low crime levels at resorts do not remove this risk.Malé 2Read

Where to stay alert

  • Malé CityTake extra care of valuables while travelling around the city. Crime rates are low, but personal possessions still need attention.

Habits that keep you safe

Money

  • Confirm the exchange rate before paying in US dollars.
  • Carry some rufiyaa for purchases in Malé or other inhabited islands.
  • Keep your airport Bank of Maldives exchange receipt if you want to change unused rufiyaa back.
  • Check souvenir prices and ask where goods were made.

Your belongings

  • Use safe deposit boxes at island resorts.
  • Keep valuables off unattended beach towels and loungers.
  • Keep bags closed and within reach while travelling around Malé.
  • Keep a separate copy of your passport and insurance details.

Where you stay

  • Check bottled-water prices and what your package includes.
  • Ask management whether tap water is safe to drink.
  • Lock your room and secure valuables before going out.

Taxis

  • Confirm the fixed fare for your route before setting off.
  • There is no charge for trunk use in Malé taxis.
  • The listed overnight supplement is Rf5 between midnight and 06:00.
  • Taxis can be booked through Avas App or MTCC Malé Taxi Line.

Tours and guides

  • Confirm resort transfer arrangements and the full price before arrival.
  • Check late-arrival plans because seaplanes generally do not operate at night.
  • Allow for transfer delays and gaps before your return flight.
  • Treat an excursion shopping stop as a chance to compare goods, without feeling obliged to buy.

Cards and ATMs

  • Check the amount and currency before approving a card payment.
  • Keep payment receipts until you have checked your statement.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere separate from your wallet.

What travellers say about Maldives

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Is theft a concern at resort hotels?

Crime levels are relatively low, but belongings can be stolen from rooms or beaches. Use the resort's safe deposit box and avoid leaving valuables unattended.

What should I check before paying in US dollars?

Ask which exchange rate the shop will use. Shops may use Rf10 or Rf15 per dollar. Confirm the total and check your change.

Are souvenirs on island excursions made locally?

Not necessarily. These goods are typically made outside the Maldives and sold at significant markups. Ask where an item was made and compare prices.

How much should I expect to pay for bottled water?

US$5 per bottle is typical at resorts. Check whether water is included in your package, and ask management whether tap water is safe to drink.

Can a Malé taxi charge extra for using the trunk?

There is no charge for trunk use. Confirm the fixed route fare before leaving. A listed Rf5 supplement applies between midnight and 06:00.

Is an expensive private resort transfer necessarily a scam?

No. Private transfers can cost US$500–800. Confirm the price and arrangements with your resort or travel agent, especially if you arrive after dark.

Do I need to pay departure tax separately?

Departure taxes are included in your ticket. Check any request for an extra payment with your airline before paying.

Can I exchange unused rufiyaa before leaving?

Keep your airport Bank of Maldives exchange receipt. After check-in, the departure-area branch can change rufiyaa back into your original currency, up to the amount on the receipt. Small notes may be unavailable.

Are high alcohol prices a sign of fraud?

A high price alone does not prove fraud. Licensed resorts, liveaboards and Hulhulé Island Hotel usually charge steep markups. Check the menu before ordering.

Who can help if I am scammed or robbed?

Tourist police are available at any time on 1478 or (+960) 9790070. Call 911 for urgent help. Also notify your hotel and contact your card issuer if cards or payment details are affected.

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