Maldives Crime Rate & Safety
Homicide statistics, crime trends, and travel safety for Maldives
US State Department Travel Advisory
Exercise Increased Caution
Updated October 7, 2025
Maldives recorded 0.6 intentional homicides per 100,000 people in 2019, a rate that is among the lowest in the world. That places Maldives #176 of 195 countries by homicide rate, compared with the Asia average of 2.0 per 100,000 and a world average of 5.2. Homicide rates have fallen 64% over the past decade (from 1.7 in 2009). For travelers, the US State Department currently rates Maldives at Level 2 of 4: Exercise Increased Caution.
Homicide Rate
0.6 /100k
Safety Rank
#20 of 195
Travel Advisory
Level 2 of 4
Data Year
2019
Homicide Rate Trend (1990-2019)
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people. Homicide rates have fallen 64% over the past decade (from 1.7 in 2009). Source: UNODC via World Bank.
How Maldives Compares
Intentional homicides per 100,000 people, latest available year per country.
Who Is Affected
In Maldives, the homicide rate for men is 0.6× that of the rate for women — 1.6 vs 2.5 per 100,000 (2015).
Homicide victims per 100,000 of each sex. Source: UNODC via World Bank.
Safety for Travelers
Summary of the current US State Department advisory for Maldives:
Reissued Language: There were no changes to the advisory level or risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise increased caution in Maldives due to terrorism . Advisory summary Terrorist groups may attack with little or no warning. They may target: Tourist locations Transportation hubs Markets and shopping malls Local government facilities Attacks may occur on remote islands. This can lengthen the response time of authorities. If you decide to travel to Maldives: There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in the Maldives. Visit the U.S.
Level 1
Exercise Normal Precautions
Level 2
Exercise Increased Caution
Level 3
Reconsider Travel
Level 4
Do Not Travel
Safety Guidance for Maldives
Practical safety information for visitors, from US State Department country information (last updated October 16, 2025).
Terrorism
: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as: High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.) Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists Places of worship Schools Parks Markets Public transportation systems (including, buses, and scheduled commercial flights) For more information, see our Terrorism page.
Crime
The Maldives has a low crime rate and crime on resort islands is rare. Valuables may be stolen when left unattended on beaches or in hotels. The penalty for drug use or possession is severe.
Demonstrations
They may take place in response to political or economic issues, but primarily take place in Malé or other larger cities and are unlikely to be noticed by tourists. Demonstrations can be unpredictable, avoid areas around protests and demonstrations. Check local media for updates and traffic advisories.
Scams
Review the Department of State’s Protecting Yourself from Scams and the FBI pages for information. Be careful when using dating apps or online dating websites while abroad. Scammers may target U.S. citizens. Tell your friends and family where you are, meet in a populated public place, and avoid consuming suspicious food or drinks. Avoid traveling alone to bars or nightclubs.
Technology Usage Abroad
SIM cards and virtual SIM cards can be purchased at the airport upon arrival. Otherwise, international cellular/data roaming in the Maldives is generally very expensive. Mobile devices can be compromised, stolen, or damaged anywhere in the world. Before traveling abroad, it is best to keep all software (operating system and apps) updated. If possible, use a virtual private network and encrypted voice over IP (VoIP) applications. Make sure that all VPN/VoIP are reputable, and U.S. based. Do not connect to unknown open Wi-Fi. GPS Navigation Apps are helpful in getting U.S. citizens around in a foreign country. Prior to using the GPS app make sure you research the route to make sure it is safe. GPS navigation app may give you the shortest route without safety consideration.
Victims of Crime
Report crimes to the local police at 119 and contact the U.S. Embassy in Colombo at +94-11-202-8500. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime. See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas . We can: Help you find appropriate medical care Assist you in reporting a crime to the police Contact relatives or friends with your written consent Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion Provide a list of local attorneys. We do not endorse or recommend any specific attorneys Provide information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home Replace a stolen or lost passport
Domestic Violence
U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence are encouraged to contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tourism
The tourism industry is not well regulated. Safety inspections for equipment and facilities are rare. Accidents involving water sports in the Maldives happen every year. Dangerous areas/activities are not always labeled properly. Staff may not be trained or certified by the host government or recognized authorities. If you get injured, you will likely only find appropriate medical treatment in or near major cities. First responders cannot reach areas outside major cities to provide urgent medical care. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .
About This Data
Homicide figures are intentional homicides per 100,000 people, compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and published by the World Bank (indicator VC.IHR.PSRC.P5). Homicide is the most reliably comparable crime statistic across countries because definitions of other offences (assault, theft, robbery) vary widely between national legal systems and reporting practices.
Travel advisory levels are issued by the US Department of State and updated continuously. They reflect risks to travelers including crime, terrorism, civil unrest, health, and natural disasters — not only crime rates. Countries report crime data with different lags; the most recent available year is shown for each metric.
Maldives Population & Demographics
Population of 527,799, growth trends, economy, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Maldives safe to visit?
The US State Department rates Maldives at Level 2 of 4 (Exercise Increased Caution). The homicide rate of 0.6 per 100,000 is among the lowest in the world.
What is the crime rate in Maldives?
Maldives has an intentional homicide rate of 0.6 per 100,000 people (2019, World Bank/UNODC), ranking #176 of 195 countries.
What is the US travel advisory level for Maldives?
Maldives is currently at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. Advisory levels range from Level 1 (Exercise Normal Precautions) to Level 4 (Do Not Travel).
How does crime in Maldives compare to other countries?
Maldives's homicide rate of 0.6 per 100,000 is below the world average of 5.2 and below the Asia average of 2.0.