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Hawksbill Turtle - Eretmochelys imbricata floats under water. Maldives Indian Ocean coral reef.

Travelling to the Maldives? 

Get the best Maldivian rufiyaa rates online

Gear up for your Maldivian adventure with Manor FX. We offer the best GBP to Maldivian rufiyaa exchange rates, giving you more Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR) for an unforgettable trip.

Choose safe delivery to your home or place of work. Or pick-up at our bureau near Heathrow. 

Our easy online system makes it a breeze to order Maldives currency. Change pounds to Maldivian rufiyaa today with Manor FX.

Maldivian travel money

Dreaming of lounging on the Maldives’ pristine beaches or diving in crystal-clear waters? Let’s sort you out with key Maldives travel tips about currency for the Maldives and card payments there.

Where can I buy rufiyaa?

Maldivian rufiyaa isn’t as commonly sold as other currencies, so it’s a good idea to sort it before you go. 

You can easily buy Maldivian rufiyaa online with us for great rates, avoiding the airport’s high charges.

Enjoy hassle-free currency exchange with Manor FX. Our process is straightforward, and our rates are hard to beat, giving you more to spend on your Maldivian adventure. 

If you’re passing by Heathrow, pop into our bureau for the same great deals.

Buy your rufiyaa now

Maldive beach resort, panoramic landscaps

Where can I buy MVR?

You won’t find MVR at every bank or post office due to its more niche demand. 

Dedicated foreign exchange companies, like us here at Manor FX, are your best bet. We offer the best Maldivian rufiyaa exchange rates and secure delivery options.

Should I exchange money before I travel to Maldives?

Absolutely, it’s wise to have some Maldivian rufiyaa ready for those initial expenses like transport, meals, and small buys when you land.

What is the best currency to take to Maldives?

The Maldivian rufiyaa is the best currency to take to the Maldives. It’s the official tender and what you’ll need for most transactions there.

While you might get away with USD in some places, it’s not a sure thing, and you could end up on the losing end of exchange rates. Stick to the Maldivian rufiyaa for a smooth trip.

Three street vendors sit by bananas stall - Market situated on the harbor of Male - capital of Maldives

Do I need to carry USD to the Maldives?

It’s not necessary to carry USD (US dollars) to the Maldives, but it can be convenient. While the official currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa, USD is widely accepted, especially in resorts, hotels, and for activities like diving and excursions. 

Some places might even prefer USD over the local currency for larger transactions.

However, for smaller purchases and when you’re outside the main tourist areas, having Maldivian rufiyaa is useful. This is because local shops, markets, and services might only accept the local currency, and you’ll avoid any potential issues with exchange rates.

Can I use credit card in the Maldives?

Most places in the Maldives welcome international card payments. Big hotels, fancy shops, large malls, and main supermarkets in Malé accept international credit or debit cards.

The Maldives is getting into contactless payments. Spot the contactless symbol, and you can tap your card for purchases up to 2,000 Maldivian rufiyaa. For more, you’ll need your PIN.

If you plan to use your card in the Maldives, watch out for currency conversion fees and bank charges. 

Your bank’s Maldivian rufiyaa to GBP rate might not be the best, as banks often add their mark-up.

Before using your card in the Maldives, it’s wise to give your bank a heads-up. This stops them from flagging your overseas transactions as suspicious and blocking your card.

Should I use cash or card in the Maldives?

Cash is king in the Maldives, especially for smaller purchases and places outside the main areas. We recommend having a good amount of Maldives money on hand.

Don’t forget to change any leftover Maldivian rufiyaa back to pounds when you get back home.

View of pink buildings, Male, Maldives.

How much cash to take to the Maldives?

The Maldives offers a range of experiences, and your spending can vary based on your activities and location. In luxury resorts and popular spots, things can get pricey. But there are ways to enjoy the Maldives without breaking the bank. Here’s a rough guide:

Budget-friendly travel

Plan on spending around 500 to 1,000 Maldivian rufiyaa (about £25-£50) per day for a budget-friendly trip. This covers basic accommodation in guest houses, local food, transport, and some activities, letting you enjoy the Maldives without overspending.

Mid-range comfort

For a more comfortable trip, budget about 2,000 to 3,000 Maldivian rufiyaa (around £100-£150) per day. This lets you enjoy nicer meals, more activities like snorkelling or island hopping, and stay in mid-range hotels.

Luxury in the Maldives

For a luxury Maldives holiday, you might spend over 5,000 Maldivian rufiyaa (roughly £250+) per day. This budget gets you into the best resorts, private excursions, and top-notch dining.

Remember, prices in the Maldives can jump during peak tourist seasons. It’s smart to book ahead to manage any hikes in hotel and activity costs.

Enjoying the Maldives doesn’t have to empty your wallet. With some planning and a taste for local experiences, you can make the most of your trip within your budget. Dive into the Maldives’ stunning beauty and unique culture!

Avoiding ATM fees in the Maldives

Stick to ATMs from big banks for fewer fees, and consider taking out larger sums less often to cut down on charges. 

Check if your bank has any local partners to use their ATMs for free. Or, order Maldivian rufiyaa from us before you go to skip the ATM hassle altogether.

As always, take care when withdrawing money from cash points.

evening panorama of Male with jetty and street

Is the Maldives cheap or expensive?

The Maldives can be a mix. Basic eats and local transport are quite affordable, but resorts and activities can add up. Dining out? Casual spots might run you £4 to £8, while fancier meals can go from £12 to £24, and top-tier dining, especially seafood, can hit £16 to £32. 

Tipping in the Maldives

Tipping is a nice way to show appreciation for good service. Restaurants usually expect about 10%, and for taxis and hotel staff, a little extra is always welcome.

Is the Maldives budget-friendly for tourists?

Yes, the Maldives can cater to all budgets. Local meals and transport are pretty cheap, and many natural attractions are free or low-cost. With smart planning, you can have a fantastic time without blowing your budget.

Water villas in the ocean Maldives

Buy your rufiyaa now

Maldivian currency

Bank notes in the Maldives

Maldivian bank notes come in various denominations, including 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1000 rufiyaa. Each note has distinct colours and designs, making them easy to distinguish.

The front of the banknotes often features prominent Maldivian figures, cultural symbols, or architectural landmarks. 

The back usually showcases the Maldives’ diverse wildlife, marine life, or scenic landscapes, highlighting the nation’s connection to the environment and its commitment to conservation.

Be mindful of their condition and watch out for fakes.

Maldivian Rufiyaa banknotes

Coins in the Maldives 

In the Maldives, coins come in several small denominations like 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, and 50 laari, and there’s also a 1 and 2 rufiyaa coin. 

Each coin has a different size and design, showing things like boats, palm trees, and traditional Maldivian symbols. 

The coins are used for everyday small purchases, and it’s fun to see the different pictures on them when you’re buying something. Again, be aware of their authenticity.

Maldivian currency import and export regulations

You can bring in and take out up to MVR 20,000 per person, but there’s no limit on foreign currency as long as you declare amounts over a certain threshold. Note that Indian and Pakistani currencies are a no-go.

Ordering Maldivian rufiyaa online

Swap your British pounds to Maldivian rufiyaa with us for a smooth transaction and quick delivery right to your door. Or pop into our travel money shop near Heathrow to buy Maldivian rufiyaa in the UK.

Exchanging back Maldivian rufiyaa

Got Maldivian rufiyaa left over? Exchange your Maldives currency to GBP with us for a great rate, making sure you’re not out of pocket. Convert Maldivian rufiyaa to pounds now.

Local women in bright national clothes harvesting leaves on one of the central streets of small tropical island, Kaafu Atoll, Kuda Huraa Island, Maldives

FAQs

Do you need a visa to go to the Maldives?

As a UK national, you don’t need to arrange a visa before you travel to the Maldives. When you arrive, you’ll be granted a 30-day tourist visa free of charge, provided you meet certain conditions. 

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your entry date, and you may need to show proof of a return ticket and confirmation of accommodation.

It’s always a good idea to check the latest travel advice before you go, as visa requirements can change. But generally, the Maldives offers a straightforward and welcoming entry process for UK tourists looking to enjoy their beautiful islands.

What vaccinations are required for the Maldives?

For a trip to the Maldives, you don’t need any special vaccinations to enter. But, it’s good to be up-to-date on routine vaccines like for the flu and measles. 

You might also want to get shots for Hepatitis A and Typhoid since you can catch these through food or water. Check with your doctor before you go to see if you need any vaccines.

What is the best time to visit the Maldives?

The best time to visit the Maldives is between November and April. During these months, the weather is dry and sunny, making it perfect for beach activities and water sports. 

This period is also the high tourist season, so it might be busier and more expensive. 

If you’re looking for quieter and possibly cheaper options, consider visiting just before or after these months. Keep in mind, the rainy season from May to October can bring more rain and cloudy days, but it’s still warm.

10 things to know before going to the Maldives

  1. Conservative dress code. The Maldives is a Muslim country, so dress modestly when you’re not on the resort islands or in resort areas, especially in Male and on local islands.
  2. Alcohol regulations. Alcohol is only available on resort islands. It’s illegal to bring alcohol into the country and to consume it on inhabited local islands.
  3. Island hopping. Exploring different islands is a must, but plan ahead as transfers between islands, especially those far from Male, can be expensive.
  4. Water sports and activities. The Maldives is famous for diving, snorkelling, and water sports. Check your resort’s offerings and consider getting certified to dive if you’re not already.
  5. Environmental awareness. The Maldives is sensitive to environmental impact. Be mindful of coral reefs, don’t litter, and consider eco-friendly sunscreens.
  6. Health precautions. No special vaccinations are required, but it’s wise to have travel insurance and be up-to-date on routine vaccinations.
  7. Connectivity. While Wi-Fi is common in resorts, it can be slow or expensive. Consider a local SIM card for longer stays or if you need reliable internet.
  8. Tipping culture. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s appreciated for good service, especially in resorts. Check if service charges are included in your bills.
  9. Plastic ban. The Maldives is working to reduce plastic waste, so many islands ban single-use plastics. Bring reusable water bottles and bags.
  10. Local cuisine. Try local dishes like Mas Huni and Maldivian curries. Seafood is fresh and abundant, but remember that eating on local islands can be very different from resort dining.

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Get
Maldivian Rufiyaas Fast!

  • Free home delivery over £750
  • with Royal Mail Special Delivery 1pm
  • Better rates than the banks
You exchange:
£
You get:
Rate:
You exchange:
You get:
£
Rate: