If you’re planning a trip to paradise, there’s one thing you’ll want to sort out as soon as you land: your Maldives SIM card. Whether you’re posting dreamy beach photos, staying connected with family, or navigating from one island to another, having reliable mobile data is a must.
The good news? The Maldives offers fast 4G internet, affordable tourist SIM cards, and two major network providers that cater perfectly to travellers. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best Maldives SIM card options, how to get one, what it costs, and which is best for your needs.
Do Tourists Need a SIM Card?
While many resorts offer free Wi-Fi, it can be unreliable, limited to certain areas, or simply too slow for video calls or uploads. A Maldives SIM card gives you:
- Stronger 4G coverage
- Reliable internet in remote islands
- Access to apps, maps, and communication tools
- Peace of mind in case of emergencies
If you plan on exploring local islands, doing day trips, or working remotely during your holiday, a Maldives SIM card is definitely worth it.
Read more: Maldives Weather in May: The Ultimate Weather Guide
Best Maldives SIM Card Providers
There are two main mobile providers in the Maldives offering tourist-friendly SIM card packages:
- Dhiraagu
- Ooredoo Maldives
Both have solid reputations, good coverage, and competitive prepaid plans tailored for visitors.
1. Dhiraagu – Best Reliable SIM Card in the Maldives
Dhiraagu is the largest telecom provider in the Maldives and is known for offering the best coverage, especially in more remote areas.
Why choose Dhiraagu?
- Best 4G LTE coverage across all major islands and atolls
- Available at the airport
- Excellent network for island hopping
Dhiraagu Tourist SIM Card
- Price: MVR 299 (~$19 USD)
- Data: 17GB (valid for 7 days)
- Includes: Free local calls
- Top-ups available via app or local stores
You can also extend the data or switch to a 30-day plan if you’re staying longer. Their MyDhiraagu app makes it easy to recharge and manage your plan.
Where to Buy:
- Velana International Airport (Malé) – Dhiraagu counter in arrivals
- Dhiraagu stores in Malé City and local islands
- Hotels and some guesthouses
2. Ooredoo Maldives – Great Value and Easy to Use
Ooredoo Maldives is another trusted provider offering competitive tourist SIMs and user-friendly mobile services.
Why choose Ooredoo?
- Fast 4G speeds in most resort and inhabited islands
- User-friendly app
- Often includes bonus data for social media or YouTube
Ooredoo Tourist SIM Card
- Price: MVR 300 (~$19.50 USD)
- Data: 20GB (valid for 7 days)
- Bonus: Extra data for social apps (offers may vary)
- Includes: Free local calls and SMS
Ooredoo’s Mobile App makes top-ups and plan upgrades easy, and English-speaking support is available.
Where to Buy:
- Ooredoo booth at Velana International Airport
- Ooredoo outlets in Malé and major inhabited islands
- Some resorts and local hotels may offer SIM cards directly
Coverage & Speed Comparison
Both providers offer strong 4G coverage, but Dhiraagu has a slight edge when it comes to network strength in outer atolls and uninhabited islands.
| Feature | Dhiraagu | Ooredoo Maldives |
| Network Coverage | Best in Maldives | Very Good |
| Data Speed | Fast 4G+ | Fast 4G |
| Tourist Packages | 17GB for ~MVR 299 | 20GB for ~MVR 300 |
| Airport Availability | Yes | Yes |
| App for Recharging | Yes (MyDhiraagu) | Yes (Ooredoo App) |
| Support for Tourists | Excellent | Excellent |
How to Get a Maldives SIM Card
Getting a Maldives SIM card for tourists is easy and worry free
Step-by-Step:
- Land at Velana International Airport (MLE)
- Head to the Dhiraagu or Ooredoo counter in the arrival hall
- Show your passport (required for registration)
- Choose a tourist SIM card plan
- Staff will activate your SIM on the spot
- Insert the SIM, restart your phone, and you’re ready!
It takes less than 3 minutes, and staff usually speak good English.
Recharging Your SIM Card
If you’re staying longer or run out of data, recharging is simple:
- Use the provider’s mobile app (Dhiraagu or Ooredoo)
- Visit local stores or supermarkets
- Ask your hotel or guesthouse reception
Tourist SIMs can be topped up and used like regular prepaid SIMs, so you’re never disconnected.
Alternative Options: eSIMs & Roaming
eSIM for the Maldives
Suppose your phone supports eSIM, you can buy an international esim data plan from providers like:
- Airalo
- Nomad
- Holafly
While convenient, these are usually more expensive and don’t include local calls.
Roaming with Your Home SIM
International roaming charges can be extremely high in the Maldives, especially for data. Unless you have a specific roaming deal with your provider, it’s best to avoid it.
Do Resorts Offer Wi-Fi?
Yes—most resorts offer free Wi-Fi, but the connection can be:
- Limited to reception, restaurants, or common areas
- Slower than mobile data
- Unreliable on local islands or during bad weather
That’s why getting a Maldives SIM card is a smarter option, especially if you’re visiting local islands or doing excursions.
SIM Card Travel Tips
- Buy at the airport for best convenience
- Bring an unlocked phone (check with your carrier before travel)
- Download offline maps before heading to remote islands
- Use WhatsApp, Messenger, or Signal for international calls
- Check if your resort or hotel provides SIM cards or mobile support
FAQs About Maldives SIM Cards
1. Can I use my SIM card on all islands?
Yes, Dhiraagu and Ooredoo both offer nationwide coverage, including resort and local islands.
2. How long does the tourist SIM last?
Most tourist SIM cards in the Maldives are valid for 7 days, but you can extend or top-up for longer stays.
3. Can I get a SIM card in Malé?
Yes, both providers have main offices and stores in Malé City and other populated islands.
4. What if I run out of data?
You can buy a data add-on easily through the mobile app or at a local shop.
5. Which SIM card is best for island hopping?
Dhiraagu has slightly better coverage in remote areas, making it ideal for travelers exploring multiple islands.
Which Maldives SIM Card is Best?
If you’re heading to the Maldives, having a local SIM card is a must for easy, affordable internet access. Both Dhiraaguand Ooredoo offer excellent SIM card options for tourists, but the right one for you depends on your travel style:
- Choose Dhiraagu if you want best overall coverage and plan to visit remote islands.
- Choose Ooredoo if you want more data for your money and will mostly stay on popular or resort islands.
No matter which you pick, getting a Maldives SIM card will make your trip smoother, safer, and more connected.
Ready to travel? Don’t forget to pick up your Maldives SIM card at the airport—and enjoy paradise without losing touch with the world.
