Kosupa Travel

Hello, this is blogger Yam! To make your dreamy Maldives stay more comfortable, choosing the right clothing is essential. However, selecting appropriate attire while considering various factors such as temperature, humidity, ease of movement, manners, and culture is not an easy task. In this article, we’ll introduce specific recommendations for good and bad clothing examples while covering three different areas: resorts, urban areas like Malé city, and local islands.

[:contents]

1. Appropriate Attire for Resort Areas

Maldivian resorts are paradise itself, with a relaxed atmosphere spreading throughout. As a result, even in high-end luxury resorts, many guests tend to dress casually without being too formal. Also, in resorts with various facilities, you need to consider not only how to dress for the beach and pool but also for restaurants and entertainment venues.

Casual Attire is OK as Long as It’s Not Excessive

As a general rule, casual attire is fine at resorts. You don’t necessarily need to wear dresses or collared shirts; sleeveless tops, sandals, shorts, and T-shirts that are easy to move in and comfortable are perfectly acceptable. After all, it’s hot like midsummer all day long in the Maldives. Of course, overly casual wear like pajamas or track suits that give off a too-homey vibe is not okay. Aim for a natural look that’s clean and relaxed without being too formal.

Beach Sandals May Not Be Allowed in Restaurants and Bars

However, it’s true that some resorts may have certain rules depending on their price range and formality. Especially in restaurant areas, you may be required to pay some attention to your attire. For example, it’s generally not okay to come to a restaurant in just your swimwear, and some resorts may prohibit beach sandals. It’s understandable that a certain level of hygiene is expected in dining areas.

Overly Formal Attire May Stand Out

Conversely, formal attire like jackets, tuxedos, or evening gowns might stand out too much at a resort. Unless it’s for a gala party or similar event, showing up in such formal wear on a regular day might make you look like an “overly enthusiastic guest.” Of course, there’s nothing wrong with being enthusiastic, and if you’re planning an engagement dinner or want to change the mood for an anniversary, dressing up might leave a lasting impression on your important partner. However, appearing in a tuxedo at a general all-inclusive buffet venue might attract unwanted attention, so for such special occasions, we recommend using private course dinners.

2. Appropriate Attire for Urban Areas

In urban areas of the Maldives, including Malé city, there’s a relatively modern and active atmosphere. However, in the Maldives, where Islamic culture is deeply rooted, somewhat modest clothing is important even in urban areas.

Basically, you can dress the same as you would in Japan. T-shirts and shorts are generally fine. In urban areas with many tourists, the conservative Islamic morals of “women should cover their skin” are not strictly enforced, and you can enjoy your fashion to some extent. However, it’s not okay to walk around the city in swimwear or excessively revealing clothes just because it’s a tropical country. Unlike resorts, it’s prohibited to wander around in swimwear in urban areas except for designated “bikini beaches.” Be careful, as you might be detained even as a tourist if you unknowingly violate this rule.

Also, the sanitary conditions in urban areas are not very good, and it’s not uncommon for roads to flood immediately after heavy rain, soaking your feet. Therefore, we recommend avoiding suede shoes and wearing sneakers or sandals made of materials that won’t be damaged if they get wet.

Good clothing examples:
– Short-sleeved shirts or dresses
– Casual shorts or skirts
– Lightweight shoes or sandals

Bad clothing examples:
– Revealing clothes that expose shoulders or knees
– Moving around in beachwear or swimsuits
– High heels or boots

3. Appropriate Attire for Local Islands

On the local islands of the Maldives, unlike tourist areas, traditional lifestyles continue. Islamic values are strongly reflected here, which is unique to local areas. It’s important to walk around in appropriate attire while respecting the local culture.

First, unnecessary exposure of skin is taboo. Although local residents have become somewhat more open to diverse cultures with modernization, the reality is that many still have a strict view on women’s skin exposure. While there are no specific penalties for skin exposure, it won’t make for a pleasant trip if you’re not well-received by local residents. Wear long dresses or skirts that cover your arms and legs as much as possible, and be mindful not to expose skin carelessly. Men should also avoid shorts that are too short or tank tops.

The “bikini beach” rule applies to local islands as well. You cannot wear swimwear outside designated areas. When staying on a local island, make sure to ask your guesthouse or hotel for a clear explanation of local rules.

Good clothing examples:
– Shirts or blouses that don’t emphasize body lines
– Long pants or long skirts

Bad clothing examples:
– Revealing clothing
– Clothing that accentuates body silhouettes

Other Useful Items to Bring

In addition to the clothing mentioned above, here are some items that are useful to have:

Sun Hat

The Maldivian sun is incredibly strong. No matter how thick a layer of sunscreen you apply, it will still easily burn your skin. Bring a wide-brimmed sun hat to cover not only your face but also your neck area.

Parasol

A parasol is also important for sun protection. It’s an essential item to protect your entire body evenly from the sun.

Hijab

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hijabi mv 🦋 (@hijabi_mv)

www.instagram.com

The last item we’d like to introduce is the hijab. It’s that cloth that women in Islamic countries wrap around their heads! Maldivians are very tolerant, so foreign women won’t be particularly criticized for exposing their hair, but by choosing to wear a hijab, you can show a gesture of understanding and respect towards the local residents. Wearing a hijab might lead to more favorable interactions with local Maldivians and create conversation starters, so be sure to prepare one when visiting the Maldives!

How was it?

Appropriate attire in the Maldives varies depending on the location and situation, but the key is to respect local culture and customs while ensuring comfort. Keep in mind these clothing points to be aware of before your trip, and enjoy your stay in the Maldives!