The sea and the islands
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Your resort's house reef | Most resorts are ringed by reefs you can snorkel straight from the beach. | Ask your resort about snorkelling gear |
| Hanifaru Bay | Gatherings of manta rays in the Baa Atoll biosphere reserve. | Baa Atoll; the season runs roughly June to November |
| South Ari Atoll | One of the best-known places to see whale sharks. | All year |
| Sandbanks | A picnic on a strip of sand in the middle of the sea. | On a trip from your resort |
| A sunset dolphin cruise | A boat trip to watch the dolphins. | On a trip from your resort |
Malé
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| The Old Friday Mosque (Hukuru Miskiy) | A historic 17th-century mosque built of coral stone. | Malé |
| Hulhumalé beach | A public beach near the airport, handy for the first or last night. | Hulhumalé |
Tips before you go
- The visa is free on arrival for 30 days, with the IMUGA declaration filled in within 96 hours before arrival.
- The best time is December to April.
- Ask your resort which sea trips are available, as they differ from atoll to atoll.
Hotels in the Maldives
Flights to the Maldives
Frequently asked questions
What is there to do in the Maldives?
Snorkelling the reefs, seeing manta rays and whale sharks, sandbank picnics, dolphin cruises and a visit to Malé.
Where can I see manta rays in the Maldives?
At Hanifaru Bay in the Baa Atoll; the season runs roughly June to November.
Do Saudis need a visa for the Maldives?
No, a free visa on arrival for 30 days.
Planning your trip to the Maldives? Read Travel to the Maldives from Saudi Arabia.
Last updated: October 2026. The information is for guidance only; ticket prices and opening hours are set by each attraction and may change, so check them on the official website before you go.