Maldives Language: Everything you need to know

The national language of Maldives is Dhivehi. It is also the Maldives official language. Since the Maldives is one country that’s most visited by people from every corner of the world, English is the common language and enough to converse with most people. But if you are someone really into learning new languages, understanding the country’s culture and getting along with locals, then you can give this article a read to know more about the languages of the Maldives.

Your dream vacation in the Maldives can become a truly unique experience by learning about the local languages and their landscape. The languages of the Maldives provide tourists with a combination of ancient practices and contemporary tourism. Maldives tourism offers phenomenal chances to interact with different communication styles across 1,200 coral islands. Although English is widely spoken in resorts and tourist areas, knowing Dhivehi and other local languages allows for deeper cultural connections. This complete guide covers essential Maldivian languages, practical phrases, and communication tips for your 2025 island getaway.

Key Takeaways

• Dhivehi is the official language, but English proficiency is excellent in tourist areas and resorts.
• The Arabic influences show the Maldives’ Islamic culture, especially in the religious context.
• Local languages differ per atoll, and standard Dhivehi is found everywhere.
• Basic phrase knowledge enhances local interactions and shows cultural respect.

Top 3 Languages Spoken in the Maldives 

Dhivehi, English and Arabic are the most spoken languages of the Maldives, and other languages include Mulaku, Huvadhu, Maliku, Haddhunmathee and Addu. To get further details of these popular languages that are mostly spoken, continue reading.

• Dhivehi
• English
• Arabic

1. Dhivehi: The Heart of Maldivian Culture

Dhivehi is the official national language in all 26 atolls.  This Indo-Aryan language is related to the Sinhalese from the neighbouring country, Sri Lanka. Modern vocabulary displays historical influences of Sanskrit. Dhivehi uses Thaana, a right-to-left writing style influenced by the 16th-century Arabic alphabet.

Useful Maldivian phrases for tourists: 

• Numbers 1–10: Ek, De, Tin, Hathar, Fas, Ha, Hat, Ashe, Nuva, Dih

2. English: The Unofficial Second Language

English functions as the unofficial second language throughout Maldivian society. The Maldives’ education systems prioritise the learning of English at the primary level. The Maldives resorts, hotels, restaurants, and other tourist facilities are operated primarily in English for easy communication with tourists. 

3. Arabic: Religious and Cultural Foundation

The Maldivian Islamic culture is very entrenched in Arabic. Religious education encompasses compulsory Arabic language. Although Arabic is not spoken in everyday life, it is used in religious life, traditional ceremonies and in formal education.

Common Arabic phrases for tourists in the Maldives: 

• Peace be with you: As-salamu alaykum (universal Islamic greeting) 
• And upon you peace: Wa alaykum salaam (proper response) 
• God willing: Inshallah (expressing hope) 
• Praise be to God: Alhamdulillah (expressing gratitude) 
• Hello: Marhabaan (casual Arabic greeting) 
• Thank you: Shukraan lakum (formal appreciation)
• Please – Min fadlik
• Yes – nem
• No – la
• Excuse me – law samaht
• I’m sorry – anasif
• Help! – an-najda!
• Do you speak English? – hal tatakallam el-ingliziyya?
• Is there someone here who speaks English? – had beyetkallem ingelizi?
• How much does this cost? – bikam hatha?

Regional Dialect Variations Across Maldivian Atolls

Geographic isolation created distinct linguistic variations across different atolls. Standard Dhivehi remains universally understood everywhere.

Southern Atolls – Huvadhu Dialect

The southern atolls, especially Gaafu Alif and Gaafu Dhaalu, speak the Huvadhu dialect. This variation has specialised language and distinctive pronunciation of the marine activities in the Maldives.

Northern Maldives – Regional Language Influences

Northern atolls are more closely aligned with standard Dhivehi, but they also show slight influences from nearby South Asian languages.

Addu Atoll – Unique Communication Style

The southernmost Addu Atoll has developed its own distinct dialect, influenced by its historical connections with the British military presence. Modern Addu residents often code-switch between dialects effortlessly.

Cultural Tips for Maldives Travellers

• Wear a dress that covers your shoulders and knees outside the resort and beaches. 
• Use common greetings such as “Assalaamu alaikum” (Peace be upon you) and respond with “Wa alaikum assalaam”. 
• Alcohol is only served within resort islands and hotels licensed for tourist use.
• Always ask permission before taking photos of local people, especially women and children. 
• Avoid littering, touching corals, or disturbing marine life.

Conclusion: Enhance Your Maldives Vacation by Learning Local Languages

The languages of the Maldives make for cross-cultural experiences and improve each vacation experience. Dhivehi opens doors to authentic local connections. English ensures smooth tourism experiences while Arabic provides cultural depth and religious understanding. Basic phrase knowledge transforms ordinary interactions into meaningful cultural exchanges. Transform your island adventures with Pickyourtrail’s customised Maldives tour packages.

Frequently Asked Questions