Maldives

Islam in the Maldives holds a central and defining role in the nation’s identity, laws, and daily life.

Key Facts:
1. State Religion:

  • Islam is the official state religion of the Maldives.
  • 100% of Maldivians are legally required to be Muslim; the Constitution forbids citizenship for non-Muslims.
  • The practice of any religion other than Islam in public is strictly prohibited.

2. Sunni Islam:

  • The Maldives follows Sunni Islam, specifically the Shafi’i school of jurisprudence (madhhab).
  • Other branches of Islam, such as Shia Islam, are not officially permitted and practicing them openly could lead to legal consequences.

3. Religious Law:

  • Islamic Sharia is the basis for most laws, especially regarding family matters, inheritance, and public behavior.
  • Alcohol, pork, and public non-Islamic religious displays are banned for locals (though exceptions are made for tourists in resort islands).

4. Religious Practices:

  • Islamic practices are deeply integrated into daily life:
  • Five daily prayers (Salah) are commonly observed.
  • Ramadan fasting is nationwide and strictly observed.
  • Friday (Jumu’ah) prayers are the most important, with government offices and businesses often closing for prayer.

5. Religious Education:

  • Islamic studies are compulsory in Maldivian schools.
  • The curriculum includes Quran memorization, Islamic history, and Sharia principles.

6. Restrictions on Religious Freedom:

  • Apostasy (leaving Islam) is criminalized and may result in severe social and legal penalties.
  • Missionary work of other religions is forbidden.
  • Public or private practice of other religions by citizens is illegal; tourists may privately worship but cannot evangelize or distribute religious materials.

7. Tourist Exception:

  • The Maldives is a famous luxury tourist destination, and special resort islands allow non-Muslim tourists to consume alcohol and wear Western swimwear.
  • However, this freedom does not extend to Maldivian citizens.

8. Role of Religious Authorities:

  • The Ministry of Islamic Affairs regulates mosque activities, religious education, and Islamic publications.
  • Friday sermons (Khutbahs) across the country are controlled and sometimes unified by the state.

9. Recent Trends:

  • There have been concerns over radicalization and Maldivians joining foreign conflicts (such as in Syria), leading to stricter monitoring by authorities.
  • Religious conservatism has increased in recent years, but moderate Islamic culture still shapes Maldivian society.

Summary:
Islam in the Maldives is not just a personal belief system—it’s the core of national identity, law, and social fabric. The country maintains strict adherence to Sunni Islam, with little to no space for religious pluralism among its citizens.

Maldives
Country Code Top-Level Domain: .mv
Country Code: +960