As we know, The Maldives is famous for its calm waters, soft-sand beaches, luxurious resorts, and rich marine life. This archipelago consists of more than 1,200 islands which makes it an island nation. This iconic destination is a dream destination for every traveler offering staying at luxurious resorts, relaxing at beach resorts, and trying famous Maldivian food. But to experience these facilities, you need to reach the Maldives first. Let us go through the blog and find out how to get to the Maldives and make the most of our time at this wonderful destination.

How to reach Maldives?

Various airlines offer “direct flights to the Maldives” from Dubai, which is only about a 4-hour journey. Round trip fares usually range between AED 1,200-1,800 (MVR 3,300-5,000) per person according to the season. The popular airlines i.e. Emirates offer luxury first and business-class cabins so you can arrive at your resort refreshed and ready to relax!

Some other airlines offer flights from Dubai to Maldives

  1. Flydubai: Flydubai operates 3 direct flights from Dubai to Maldives daily. The flight duration is 4 hours and 20 minutes one-way.
  2. Air Arabia: Air Arabia provides regular non-stop connections from Sharjah (just outside Dubai) to Male Airport.
  3. Etihad Airways: Etihad flies from Abu Dhabi to the Maldives capital of Male via a stopover in Colombo, Sri Lanka and the total travel time is roughly 8 hours.

Flights from UAE to Maldives

  1. Multiple airlines offer direct flights from UAE to Maldives. Flight time is around 4 hours from the UAE to the Maldives. This accounts for the relatively close, with the Maldives located around 2,000 miles southwest of the UAE.
  2. There are multiple flights daily between the UAE and popular Maldivian airports like Male International and Velana International. Flight frequency increases during peak tourism seasons.
  3. Prices for flights can vary by airline, class of service, travel dates, and availability.

Flights durations from different places from UAE to the Maldives

CityFlight Duration
Abu Dhabi4 hours 20 minutes
Dubai4 hours 10 minutes
Sharjah4 hours 30 minutes
Ajman4 hours 40 minutes
Umm Al-Quwain4 hours 50 minutes
Fujairah5 hours
Ras Al Khaimah5 hours 10 minutes

How to get around in the Maldives?

From ferries to seaplanes, there are so many ways to travel across the Maldives offering unique experiences such as:

Relaxing Dhoni Cruises

A Dhoni is a traditional Maldivian boat with a flat bottom which enables it to float calmly in Maldives water. Tourists can book Dhonis for a full or half-day trip to explore smaller, deserted islands. Relaxing on the cushions under the dhoni’s roof and sailing between two islands in Maldives is an actual Maldivian experience.

Dhoni Cruise in the Maldives accommodates 4 to 10 passengers at a time making a perfect for families or small groups. The Travel Makers can help you arrange a private dhoni cruise so you can feel the perfect island for swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing & and, soaking up the sun. Prices for a full-day cruise typically range from AED 550-900 (MVR 1,500-2,300).

Speeding Across the Sea by Speedboat

If you are an adventure seeker, you can choose to get around the Maldives by speedboat. Speedboats in the Maldives can reach top speeds of up to 60 km/hr as they jump over waves, giving passengers an adventurous ride. Passengers can arrange a half or full-day tour to visit uninhabited islands for snorkeling and swimming. A breeze treatment to your hair as the boat zips over the waters feel you truly carefree.

Standard speedboats can ride about 6 passengers at a time comfortably. Prices for speedboat charters are around AED 550-1,100 (MVR 1,500-3,000) for Half-Day trips. For bigger groups, The Travel Makers can book luxury options like flyboarding jets and jet blades.

Ferries Between Local Islands

To ride between inhabited islands amongst the Maldives’ 26 atolls, the public ferry can be your budget-friendly option or a way to island-hop. Standard ferries in the Maldives depart about 1-2 times per day from major hubs, with tickets priced at AED 12 (MVR 50). The rides range from less than 30 – minutes for short distances and 12 hours for long or overnight journeys. However, ferries, can’t offer a luxury but provide an authentic local Maldivian experience.

Cruising by Boat Rental in the Maldives

Getting around with boat rides in the Maldives offers flexibility to make your itinerary for visiting the islands. Passengers can bring snorkeling gear, fishing equipment, towels, food, and drinks catered to their needs on boats. They can choose rental boats with budget-friendly options like sailboats and yachts to luxury cruises equipped with air conditioning and multiple decks for sunbathing.

Average prices are around AED 275-550 (MVR 750-1,500) to rent a standard boat, but luxury cruisers can cost AED 2,200 (MVR 6,000) per day. It is worthwhile to have the freedom to relax at the beachside for an intimate picnic.

Seaplane Scenic Flights and Transfers

For aerial views of the Maldives’ wonderful aquamarine lagoons, passengers can choose a seaplane transfer which provides a bird’s eye perspective of the islands without taking you to a final destination. As the seaplane flies over the bright coral houses, before landing on the sea, it offers an exhilarating ride.

There are various operators for Seaplane in the Maldives like Trans Maldivian Airways, Villa Air, and Constance Hotels’ Meera Air. Average prices are around AED 550 (MVR 1,500) for shared transfers, or AED 1,100+ (MVR 3,000+) for private charters. Famous luxurious resort Jumeirah often offers seaplane transfers into vacation packages – a restful way to start your Maldivian vacation.