Travelers May Be Surprised By The Reality Of Alcohol Laws In The Maldives

With its luxurious resorts, overwater bungalows, and postcard-worthy beaches, the Maldives is what tropical dreams are made of. Consisting of more than a thousand islands floating on a blanket of crystal-clear waters, the bucket list-worthy destination is brimming with opportunities to kick back, relax, and unwind in total peace. And while its resorts might be all the rage in terms of innovation and luxury — did someone say underwater hotel?! — there is one major aspect about the destination that'll often surprise unsuspecting travelers: its strict alcohol laws.

Similar to the reason why travelers need to be cautious of what swimwear they pack, the Maldives' stance on booze has to do with religious customs. An Islamic nation that carefully follows sharia law — which states that consuming alcohol is forbidden and sinful — the island nation has completely banned alcohol consumption for its local population. This ultimately means that drinking is heavily regulated throughout the country. Don't worry about your vacation plans, though: Local authorities make specific exceptions for tourist resorts that hold a special license.

Beyond religious customs and local tradition, the rules regarding alcohol and its consumption in the Maldives are pretty clear. For starters, visitors are strictly prohibited from bringing any form of alcohol into the country, as well as pork products, pornography, and firearms. This restriction also includes duty-free alcoholic purchases from departure airports, which can be confiscated by customs upon arrival.

As for consumption, drinking is only allowed at licensed resorts, floating bars, and hotels, where guests are welcome to enjoy a wide selection of drinks, including beer, wine, and spirits. In some cases, certain tours might also be permitted to serve alcoholic beverages during the activity, just make sure to do so safely and not overindulge. The downside? Most alcoholic drinks don't necessarily come cheap, with cocktail prices teetering around $15 to $25 a pop. Factor in an additional 10% Goods and Services Tax applicable to all alcohol sold in the country, and it could significantly increase the price you pay for that margarita or piña colada you've been craving.

And while some travelers might be tempted to find creative ways around these restrictions, it's best not to try and play with the law. Depending on the offense, breaking local alcohol regulations can result in some pretty serious consequences — from hefty fines to arrest and potential jail time.