Maldives Language

The Maldives has an incredibly rich and diverse history that has been influenced by many cultures over the years. The language is a prime example of this. Dhivehi is the national language of the Maldives and has been shaped by various languages including Arabic, French, Portuguese, Persian and English.

Dhivehi is an Indo-Aryan language derived from the Sinhalese language of Sri Lanka. Despite the countries' close proximity to one another, Maldivians and Sri Lankans do not always understand each other.

While Dhivehi is the national language of the Maldives, many Maldivians also speak and understand English. French, German, Russian, Italian and Chinese are also widely used at the resorts.

Being familiar with some basic Dhivehi words and phrases has many benefits on your visit to the Maldives. Not only will you be able communicate in a foreign country, but you'll also be able to impress the locals with your amazing language skills.

Read on to discover some basic words and phrases to use on your next Maldives adventure.

• Hello - Assalaamu alaikum
• Yes - Aan
• No - Noon
• Please - Adhes kohfa
• Thank you - Shukuriyaa
• You're welcome - Maruhabaa
• Excuse me - Ma-aaf kurey
• I'm sorry - Ma-aafu kurey
• Goodbye - Dhanee
• Good morning - Baajjaveri hendhuneh
• Good night - Baajjaveri reygande
• How are you? - Haalu kihineh?
• Fine, thank you - Ran'galhu, shukuriyaa
• What is your name? - Kon nameh tha kiyanee?
• Nice to meet you - Baddhalu vee thi varah ufavejje.
• Do you speak English? - Ingireysin vaahaka dhakkan ingeytha?
• Help! - Salaamai kurey!
• I only eat vegetarian food - Ahannakee evves kahala janavaaru maheh nukaa meeheh.
• Can I use your phone? - ahannah thi phoanu beynun kollevi dhaane tha?
• How much does it cost? - Meege agakee kobaa?