Get Your Free 1st Issue
Your Homes Overseas Magazine!
Discover the best destinations, property tips, and lifestyle insights from around the world.
GET YOUR FREE MAGAZINE HERE!
Discover the best destinations, property tips, and lifestyle insights from around the world.
GET YOUR FREE MAGAZINE HERE!
When most people think of the Maldives, they picture postcard-perfect overwater villas and turquoise lagoons — a place to escape, not to live. But for a growing number of digital nomads, investors, and retirees, this Indian Ocean paradise is becoming a lifestyle choice.
The Maldives is a devoutly Muslim nation, and daily life follows traditional customs closely. During Ramadan, locals gather for Maahefun — a community feast before fasting begins — and social ties remain deeply important across its 187 inhabited islands.
Food is simple, flavourful, and fresh. Coconut, tuna, and rice dominate the table, and small islands thrive on close-knit cooperation. Respect for local culture is essential for foreigners, especially those living outside resort zones.
The Maldives is made up of around 1,192 islands, scattered across 26 atolls. Only about 187 are permanently inhabited, with the rest devoted to resorts or left untouched. Travel between islands is usually by speedboat or seaplane, and supply chains can be limited — so imported goods often come at a premium.
Healthcare for locals is free through the Aasandha universal system, while foreign residents typically use private insurance or international health providers. Reliable internet is available in Malé and most resort zones, but infrastructure can vary on smaller islands.
Tourism is the backbone of the economy — contributing over 30% of GDP and employing more than half the population. The nation welcomed 2.05 million visitors in 2024, a record high.
Luxury resort brands such as Soneva, Six Senses, and Waldorf Astoria continue to shape the islands’ ultra-premium image. However, newer projects are focusing on eco-innovation — coral restoration, renewable energy, and waste-free resorts are now key investment metrics.
One example is the Maldives Floating City, currently under development near Malé. Designed by Dutch Docklands, it will host around 20,000 residents in 5,000 floating homes — combining sustainability, climate resilience, and a new path to urban expansion.
Foreigners cannot own freehold land in the Maldives. The brief 2015 amendment allowing limited ownership was repealed in April 2019, so the primary route remains leasehold ownership, typically for up to 99 years.
In July 2025, the Maldives government partnered with Henley & Partners to launch the nation’s first residence-by-investment program.
Investors can obtain long-term residency by funding designated real estate or economic projects.
The program includes three luxury zones: Gaafaru, Fushidhiggaru, and Ras Mala in Kaafu Atoll, near Malé.
Investment thresholds are expected to start at several million USD, targeting luxury tourism and residential development.
While full program regulations are still evolving, it signals a new era for international property investors seeking a tropical base.
Property in Malé is limited and expensive, with prices ranging between US $5,000–10,000 per m² in prime zones. Resort-linked residences — beachfront villas or branded overwater homes — can reach multi-million-dollar levels.
Most foreign investors participate through:
Average appreciation is moderate (around 5% annually) but depends heavily on tourism trends, currency stability, and environmental factors.
1. Sea-Level Rise: The Maldives is the world’s lowest-lying nation. Rising oceans and erosion pose long-term risks to real estate value and viability.
2. Economic Concentration: Tourism accounts for most GDP. A global downturn or travel restriction can quickly affect demand and rental income.
3. Liquidity: Exit options are limited. Leasehold property markets are small and depend on foreign demand.
4. Regulatory Risk: Policies, visa terms, or lease laws could evolve. Always use a qualified Maldivian legal firm for due diligence.
5. Insurance & Maintenance Costs: Saltwater corrosion and logistics make upkeep expensive — factor this into ROI planning.
For lifestyle seekers, the Maldives offers unmatched beauty, simplicity, and connection with nature. For investors, it presents a small but compelling niche — one that blends eco-tourism, exclusivity, and long-term potential with equally real environmental and regulatory risks.
Whether you dream of a private lagoon villa or are exploring opportunities under the 2025 investor-residency program, the Maldives is evolving beyond a holiday destination into a living, investable paradise.
📧 elly@internationalpropertyalerts.com
🌐 www.internationalpropertyalerts.com
📱 WhatsApp: +44 7796 174253
About International Property Alerts
International Property Alerts is a premier global platform connecting real estate investors with handpicked opportunities in emerging and lifestyle-driven markets. Through curated listings, expert guidance, and market insights, we help buyers make confident property decisions worldwide.
Media Contact:
Phone: +4477 1923 8132
📱 WhatsApp: +63927 073 9530
Email: office@internationalpropertyalerts.com
Elle Resort & Beach Club offers a rare chance to own property in one of the most desirable coastal locations. With limited units, strong capital growth potential, and unmatched resort facilities, this is your opportunity to secure a beachfront lifestyle with long-term value.
Thinking about buying property abroad? Don’t make the move without the right knowledge. Our Free Buyers Guide gives you essential insights on legal steps, taxes, financing, and the best markets worldwide. Trusted by international buyers and investors.
Wake up to bright, spacious living with stunning views and modern comforts. Whether for family living, retirement, or a stylish retreat, Sudara Residences makes your dream home a reality
Discover curated property listings with IPS—residential, commercial, villas, land—and get expert guidance through every step.
BONUS: FREE Cambodia Buyer’s Guide
High visibility. Targeted audience. Maximum exposure. Rent this space and let your brand shine.
Get your properties in front of high-intent investors. Showcase your listings to buyers worldwide.
From pounds to pesos, yen to dollars. ⚡ Quick. Easy. Secure.
Compare listings
Compare