Do I need a visa to visit Raa?

Tourists receive a 30-day visa on arrival in Maldives, provided they have valid passport, return ticket, and proof of accommodation.

Is Raa suitable for budget travelers?

Yes, guesthouses on local islands offer affordable options, though inter-island transport and activities can add cost. Resorts are luxury-oriented.

Can I visit Hanifaru Bay independently?

No, access is strictly regulated; visits require booking with licensed operators who obtain permits. Snorkeling only (no diving).

What is the main local cuisine?

Fresh seafood (tuna), coconut, and starches. Try mas huni (tuna salad), garudhiya (fish soup), and roshi (flatbread).

Are there ATMs in Raa?

Limited availability on inhabited islands; resorts accept cards. Carry sufficient cash (Maldivian Rufiyaa/USD) for local island expenses.

Free 30-day visa on arrival for all nationalities with a valid passport and confirmed accommodation.

What currency is used?

Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but US dollars are widely accepted in resorts and tourist areas.

Is alcohol available?

Only in resorts and liveaboard boats; not on local islands.

Can I swim in the ocean safely?

Yes, but be aware of strong currents and tides; always swim in designated areas.

What is the dress code?

On local islands, cover shoulders and knees. Resort islands are more relaxed.

Is the tap water safe to drink?

No, drink bottled or purified water.

Limited to Male and some larger islands; carry cash for local islands.

What language is spoken?

Dhivehi, but English is widely spoken in resorts and tourist areas.

Do I need travel insurance?

Highly recommended, especially for medical evacuation.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, local SIM cards are available at the airport; coverage is good in inhabited islands.

Is Raa Atoll suitable for families?

Yes, many resorts offer family-friendly activities and facilities.

What is the tipping etiquette?

Tipping is not expected but appreciated; 10% service charge is often added to bills.

Raa

ProvinceMaldives, Asia

Raa is a STATE in Maldives, Asia.

Raa Atoll, officially designated as Raa Province, is a breathtaking archipelago in the northern Maldives that offers an authentic Maldivian experience beyond the typical resort circuit. This province comprises 88 islands, with 15 inhabited by vibrant local communities and several transformed into luxurious private resorts. Raa is celebrated for its exceptional diving and snorkeling sites, including the world-renowned Hanifaru Bay—a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where manta rays and whale sharks gather in spectacular feeding frenzies during the southwest monsoon (May-November). The region boasts pristine coral reefs, stunning house reefs accessible from many resorts, and the historic island of Utheemu, birthplace of the national hero Sultan Mohamed Thakurufaanu. Travelers can explore traditional fishing villages, witness skilled lacquer work and mat weaving, and experience the warm hospitality of Maldivian culture. With its combination of rich marine biodiversity, cultural heritage, and both luxury and local island accommodations, Raa provides a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion in one of the planet's most beautiful marine environments.

Best time to visit Raa

December to April (dry season) offers optimal weather with calm seas, sunshine, and excellent visibility for diving/snorkeling. May to November (wet season) brings occasional rain and stronger winds but provides unique opportunities to witness manta ray and whale shark feeding aggregations at Hanifaru Bay, with fewer tourists and better rates.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 28-33°C, rain

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Moderate

End of wet season

Know before you go

Getting there

IFU

Ifuru Airport

Domestic

5 km away

MLE

Velana International Airport

International

170 km away

Getting around

"Transport between islands is primarily by boat: scheduled public ferries connect inhabited islands (slow but affordable), while private speedboats and domestic flights to Ifuru Airport serve resorts and quicker transfers. Resorts arrange private transfers from Malé. On islands, walking or bicycles are common; some local islands have taxis. No ride-sharing apps operate; arrange transport through accommodations. Boat charters are available for excursions."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in resorts and guesthouses

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

+960

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very safe overall; minor scams possible in tourist areas.

Night safety

8/10

Very safe overall; minor scams possible in tourist areas.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

7/10

"Raa is generally very safe with low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions, especially on local islands where conservative dress is expected. Water safety is paramount: heed marine warnings, use licensed dive operators, and be aware of strong currents. Avoid political gatherings. Scams are rare but be cautious with unlicensed tour operators. Theft is uncommon but secure valuables. Respect marine life—maintain safe distances from rays and sharks. Weather can change rapidly during monsoon seasons; follow local advice."

Police

119

Ambulance

102

Fire

118

Tourist Police

+960 979 0070

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in Raa are limited to small health centers on inhabited islands; serious conditions require transfer to Malé. Travelers should ensure comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Common concerns include sunburn, dehydration, and minor marine injuries (coral cuts, sea urchin spines). Recommended vaccinations: routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid. Mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue are present—use repellent. Drink only bottled or purified water. Resort islands have basic medical clinics; local islands have minimal facilities. Bring adequate prescription medications and a basic first-aid kit."

Culture

Local customs

"Maldivian culture is conservative and Islamic. On local islands, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered; women may cover hair). Swimwear is only appropriate at resort islands or designated 'bikini beaches.' Remove shoes before entering homes or mosques. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. Alcohol is prohibited on local islands (available only at resorts). Tipping is not customary but appreciated for exceptional service. Respect Ramadan customs if visiting during this period."

DhivehiEnglish

Costs and practicals

Currency

Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR) · Rf

Cost level

Luxury

Meals

$15-30 | a cheap local meal costs around $5-10 on local islands

Hotels

$200-800 | budget guesthouses $50-100/night, luxury resorts $500+

Local transport

$50-200 | speedboat transfer $50-200 per person

Cost notes

Resorts are expensive; local island guesthouses offer budget options.

Timezone

Indian/Maldives +05:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

25,000

Area

1,200 km²

Government

Decentralized administrative atoll under the Maldivian central government with local island councils

ISO code

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Раа, Gogledd Maalhosmadulu, 北马洛斯马杜卢环礁, MV-13, 말로스마둘루우투루부리, North Maalhosmadulu, މާޅޮސްމަޑުލު އުތުރުބުރި, Raa, Maalhosmadulu Nord, Maalhosmadulu Uthuruburi, Северный Малосмадулу, U'ngoofaaru, Ugoofaaru, Un'goofaaru, Ungoofaaru, Ungufaru, Un’goofaaru, U’ngoofaaru, an gwfarw, an jwfarw, anagupharu, angofaru, unagupharu, ʿiniguፋru, Унгуфару, أن جوفارو, ان گوفارو, उनगूफारु, আনগুফারু, ਅਨਗੂਫਾਰੂ, ኢንጉፋሩ, アンゴファル

Capital CityMajor HubBeachDivingSnorkelingLuxury ResortsMarine LifeRelaxationIsland HoppingFamily-Friendly