Regional Information - Foreign Ownership > Maldives, Asia

Feature Island

Regional Information

Strewn across the Indian Ocean like a handful of shimmering pearls, the 26 atolls of the Maldives host more than a thousand perfect tropical islets. Some of the most photogenic islands in the world, their perfect sandy beaches and fantastic tropical climate have made the Maldives one of the most sought-after locations for tourism developments. Home to many private island resorts favoured by top celebrities, few regions rival the country’s prestige. Correspondingly, private islands are exceedingly rare on the market, and mainly available to companies interested in developments that will help grow this small country’s economy and create new employment opportunities for citizens.

Maldives, Asia

Foreign Ownership of Islands in Maldives, Asia

Islands in the Maldives are available exclusively on a leasehold basis, typically about 25 years in duration. Significant contributions to the country’s economy are required for individuals or foreign-owned corporations wishing to obtain an island’s lease, and common industries are travel and tourism, mariculture, and fishing and fish processing.

Joint-ventures with Maldivian companies are strongly encouraged by the government, and involvement in projects with Maldivian-owned industries and properties are a common method of investment for foreign nationals. With minimal taxation and many opportunities for profit, the Maldives is an excellent choice for an exotic business venture.

Regional Statistics for Maldives, Asia

Location:: Southern Asia, group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, south-southwest of India
Population:: 359,008
Languages:: Maldivian Dhivehi, English
Capital:: Male
Currency:: Rufiyaa
Climate:: tropical; hot, humid; dry, northeast monsoon (November to March); rainy, southwest monsoon (June to August)
Temperature Range:: +23 to +33
Terrain:: flat, with white sandy beaches