Public Holidays in the Maldives

Major Religious Holidays

Eid al-Fitr (Feast of Breaking the Fast): Celebrated for three days on the first day of the tenth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Maldivians attend congregational prayers at mosques, listen to sermons by imams, and visit friends and relatives, exchanging homemade treats.
Ramadan: A month-long period of fasting during the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset. Restaurants are typically closed during the day.
Mawlid: Celebrated on the 12th day of the third month of the Islamic lunar calendar. This holiday commemorates the birth and death of the Prophet Muhammad.
Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice): Celebrated approximately 70 days after Eid al-Fitr, on the 10th day of the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
Islamic New Year: Celebrated on the first day of the Islamic lunar calendar.

Fixed Holidays

New Year's Day: January 1st.
National Day: January 24th.
Independence Day: July 26th. Celebrates the end of British rule. The president hosts a grand reception and there are parades and celebrations.
Victory Day: November 3rd. Commemorates the victory over Sri Lankan Tamil terrorists in the Maldives.
Republic Day: November 11th. Celebrates the establishment of the Second Republic in 1968.
Fishermen's Day: December 10th. Celebrates the lives of fishermen with various activities.
Friday and Saturday: According to the Islamic calendar, both Friday and Saturday are public holidays.

Special holidays

Independence Day: 
July 26th commemorates the Maldives' independence from the United Kingdom in 1965.

Republic Day: 
November 11th commemorates the establishment of the Republic of Maldives in 1968.

Public Holidays in 2025 (Estimated)

New Year's Day: January 1st
Eid al-Fitr: Estimated March 31st
Labor Day: May 1st
Hajj: Estimated June 5th
Eid al-Adha: June 7th
Islamic New Year: June 27th
Independence Day: July 26th
Qaumee Dhuvas: August 24th
Prophet Muhammad's Birthday: September 5th
Maldives' Acceptance of Islam: September 23rd
Victory Day: November 3rd
Republic Day: November 11th

Logistics Companies During Public Holidays

During public holidays in the Maldives, different transportation and logistics companies may have varying operational arrangements. Given the Maldives' unique geographical location, there is no railway system, so we will focus on shipping companies, airlines, freight forwarders, and logistics companies.
Shipping Companies: Shipping companies may adjust their schedules during public holidays. Some may reduce the frequency of their services, especially during major Islamic holidays like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha. However, most shipping companies will maintain basic services to accommodate essential cargo, but advance booking and confirmation of shipping schedules may be required.
Airlines: Airlines generally continue to operate during public holidays, but there may be some adjustments. Some airlines may add extra flights to meet peak travel demand. While domestic flights may experience minor disruptions, international flights are less likely to be affected.
Freight Forwarders and Logistics Companies: Most freight forwarders and logistics companies will issue notices to their customers informing them of their operational arrangements during public holidays. Some companies may take holidays, while others may provide limited services. Customers should confirm specific service schedules with their logistics providers in advance.
Courier Services: Courier services may have limited operations during public holidays. Local courier services may be suspended for a few days, while international courier services will generally continue to operate, although there may be some delays. To ensure that your shipments are not affected, it is recommended that you confirm the specific operating schedule with the relevant transportation company or agent in advance.