When travelers picture the Maldives, the mind instantly fills with visions of crystal lagoons, white sand, and overwater villas. But the real treasure of this island nation isn’t its beaches — it’s the Maldivian people.
The people of the Maldives are known not just for their natural beauty, but for their warmth, resilience, and vibrant culture shaped by centuries of trade, migration, and faith. Let’s uncover who the Maldives people truly are — where they come from, what defines them, and why meeting them might just be the highlight of your trip.
What Are the People of the Maldives Called?
The people of the Maldives are called Maldivians, or Dhivehin in the local language, Dhivehi. Their language and traditions are as unique as the turquoise waters that surround them.
Dhivehi, spoken throughout the islands, is a melodic Indo-Aryan language influenced by Sanskrit, Arabic, and Sinhala. It’s written in Thaana, a right-to-left script that reflects the country’s ancient maritime ties with Arabia and South Asia.
Are Maldives People Indian?
A common question visitors ask is: “Are Maldives people Indian?”
While the Maldives sits close to India and Sri Lanka, the Maldivian people are not Indian — though their ancestry is intertwined with both. The earliest settlers likely came from southern India and Sri Lanka over two thousand years ago, bringing with them language and traditions that mixed with those of African and Arab traders who later arrived by sea.
This blend created a distinctive Maldives ethnicity — a beautiful fusion of South Asian, Arab, and East African influences, united under one island identity.
A Tapestry of Ethnic Roots
The Maldives ethnicity cannot be defined by one group alone. Centuries of inter-island marriages and trade have created a population with subtle regional differences — lighter-skinned people in the northern atolls, darker tones in the south, and a shared sense of belonging that transcends appearance.
Despite their mixed heritage, the Maldivian people have a strong cultural identity centered on language, religion, and community.
Islam and Island Life
Islam arrived in the 12th century, when a North African traveler converted the local ruler to the faith. Since then, Islam has become central to Maldivian life.
Today, nearly all Maldivians are Sunni Muslims. Their faith influences everything from the design of mosques to the rhythms of daily prayer and the joy of Ramadan evenings spent with family and neighbors. Visitors quickly notice the serenity and hospitality rooted in this faith.
The Culture of the Maldivian People
From the beating drums of Bodu Beru to the colorful boats gliding across lagoons, the culture of the Maldives people is both ancient and alive.
Traditional drumming, dancing, and storytelling have been passed down for generations. Handicrafts like lacquer work, coir rope weaving, and mat making remain symbols of pride.
Even modern resorts honor these traditions — many host cultural nights where guests can experience authentic Maldivian music, taste island curries, and meet local artisans keeping old skills alive.
Life in the Islands
For most Maldivians, life revolves around community, fishing, and family. On smaller islands, neighbors still share food, stories, and laughter as the sun sets.
In the capital city, Malé, the energy feels entirely different — scooters rush through narrow streets, cafés buzz with young professionals, and modern life meets ancient rhythm.
The Maldives population, around 530,000 people in 2025, is spread across roughly 200 inhabited islands, though half live in or around Malé.
Challenges and Strength
The people of the Maldives face a unique challenge — rising sea levels. Yet, their resilience is inspiring. Many young Maldivians now work in tourism, marine science, and sustainability, helping protect the fragile ecosystem that sustains them.
From local guesthouses to luxury resorts, you’ll find Maldivians at the heart of every experience — chefs, guides, and hosts who embody the true soul of the islands.
Why Meeting Maldivians Will Change How You See Paradise
Beyond its breathtaking lagoons, the Maldives is about human connection — the laughter of children playing by the shore, the warmth of a smile at a local café, the quiet dignity of fishermen preparing for sea at dawn.
Whether you call them Maldivians, Maldive people, or simply the people of the Maldives, they’re what makes this island paradise unforgettable.