Maldives (MV)
The Maldives is the world's most geographically dispersed country — a chain of 26 coral atolls and 1,192 islands stretching 900km across the Indian Ocean, of which only about 185 are inhabited.
Capital: Malé
Region: Asia
Language: Dhivehi
Currency: MVR (Rf)
Cost of living: Affordable (index 55)
Emergency: 119
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Public Holidays 2026
16 holidays in Maldives. Some may vary by region.
January 2026
Thu 1
New Year's Day Public Holiday
Aharenge Aharee
Celebrated with fireworks in Malé and resort festivities. Government offices and most businesses close.
February 2026
Wed 18
Ramadan Start (Ramadan begins) Public Holiday
Ramazan Mas Fahuri Dhuvas
2026 date approximate — depends on moon sighting. During Ramadan, daytime eating, drinking, and smoking in public is prohibited for everyone including tourists on inhabited islands. Government working hours reduced. Businesses open limited hours.
March 2026
Sat 7
Maldives National Day Public Holiday
Qaumee Dhuvas
Commemorates the 1573 victory over Portuguese colonialists led by Mohamed Thakurufaanu. Military parades in Malé and cultural events across atolls.
Fri 20
Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan) — Day 1 Public Holiday
Kuda Eid
Approximate date — confirmed by moon sighting. 3-day national holiday. Families gather, new clothes, Eid prayers. Ferries and transport reduced. Resorts remain operational.
Sat 21
Eid al-Fitr — Day 2 Public Holiday
Kuda Eid (Day 2)
Second day of Eid al-Fitr celebrations. Banks and government closed.
Sun 22
Eid al-Fitr — Day 3 Public Holiday
Kuda Eid (Day 3)
Third day of Eid al-Fitr. Normal commercial activity resumes the following day.
May 2026
Wed 27
Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) — Day 1 Public Holiday
Bodu Eid
Approximate date — confirmed by moon sighting. The most important Islamic festival. Cattle/goat sacrifice, communal prayers, charitable giving. 3-day holiday.
Thu 28
Eid al-Adha — Day 2 Public Holiday
Bodu Eid (Day 2)
Second day of Eid al-Adha. Banks closed.
Fri 29
Eid al-Adha — Day 3 Public Holiday
Bodu Eid (Day 3)
Third day of Eid al-Adha. Many businesses reopen for the afternoon.
June 2026
Wed 17
Islamic New Year (Hijri New Year) Public Holiday
Islaamee Aharenge Aharee
Approximate date — 1 Muharram 1448 AH. Quiet public holiday; reflective rather than celebratory in nature.
July 2026
Fri 10
Fishermen's Day Public Holiday
Mas Verin Dhuvas
Celebrates the traditional fishing industry, the backbone of Maldivian livelihoods before tourism. Fishing competitions, boat displays, and community events across atolls.
Sun 26
Independence Day Public Holiday
Isthiqlaal Dhuvas
Marks independence from British Protectorate on 26 July 1965. Major national holiday with military parades, boat processions, cultural performances, and fireworks in Malé Harbour.
August 2026
Wed 26
Prophet's Birthday (Mawlid al-Nabi) Public Holiday
Mauloodhuge Dhuvas
Approximate date. Celebrates the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Religious sermons, processions, and charity. One of the most widely observed Islamic holidays in the Maldives.
September 2026
Wed 30
Martyrs' Day Public Holiday
Shaheedhunge Dhuvas
Commemorates the assassination of Sultan Ali VI by Portuguese invaders in 1558. Solemn remembrance day — government events and prayers.
Sun 13
The Day Maldives Embraced Islam Public Holiday
Qaumee Dhuvas
Commemorates the conversion of the Maldives to Islam in 1153 AD under Sultan Muhammad al-Adil. National public holiday. Cultural and religious observances.
November 2026
Wed 11
Republic Day Public Holiday
Jamhooree Dhuvas
Marks the establishment of the Republic of Maldives on 11 November 1968. Significant national celebrations, military parades, and the formal start of the Maldivian Republic. Public sector holiday.
Note: Some holidays in Maldives apply only to specific regions or states. Check local regulations for your area.