Can You Use US Dollars in the Maldives? Currency Guide for Visitors

Yes, US dollars are widely accepted in the Maldives—especially in resorts, tourist establishments, and for tipping. But they are not legal tender; the official currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR).

Currency Basics

• Official: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR / Rf / MRf)
• Peg: 1 USD = 15.42 MVR (fixed since 2011)
• Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50 laari; 1, 2 rufiyaa
• Notes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000 rufiyaa

Where USD Works

• Resorts (all-inclusive billing often in USD)
• Liveaboards / dive centers
• Guesthouses on local islands (increasingly)
• Tips (expected in USD)
• Souvenir shops, excursions, water sports

Where You Need MVR

• Local island shops, cafés, markets
• Public ferries (Malé–Hulhumalé–Villingili)
• Taxis in Malé
• Government fees, post office
• Small establishments off resort islands

Best Practices

• Bring: Clean, undamaged USD (post-2013 series preferred); small denominations ($1, $5, $10, $20)
• Exchange: Bank of Maldives (airport, Malé), authorized exchangers — avoid black market
• ATMs: Bank of Maldives, BML, HSBC, SCB in Malé, Hulhumalé, airport — dispense MVR
• Cards: Visa/Mastercard widely accepted at resorts; less so on local islands
• Don't rely solely on USD — carry some MVR for local islands

Pro Tip

If staying on a local island (Maafushi, Thulusdhoo, Dhigurah, etc.), get MVR on arrival. Resorts: USD fine, but check if they bill in USD or MVR (affects your card's FX rate).