How to Call Maldives
Complete guide to dialing Maldives (country code +960)
Planning to make a call to the beautiful island nation? Learning how to call Maldives doesn't have to be complicated. Whether you're contacting a resort, reaching out to friends, or conducting business, understanding the proper dialing procedures will ensure your calls connect smoothly every time. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about calling Maldives, from step-by-step dialing instructions to common mistakes that can prevent your call from going through. We'll cover essential phone etiquette to help you make a great impression, share tips for avoiding costly errors, and provide a handy list of useful numbers you might need during your communication. By the end of this guide, you'll be confidently connecting with the Maldives without any hassle.
On This Page
Quick Reference
Dialing Instructions
Dialing Structure for Maldives
To call Maldives internationally, you need to understand the basic dialing format: Exit Code + 960 + Local Number. The exit code depends on your country, while +960 is the Maldives country code that remains constant.
Step-by-Step Instructions by Country
From the USA or Canada:
Dial 011 (exit code) + 960 + local number
- Example: 011-960-XXX-XXXX
From the UK:
Dial 00 (exit code) + 960 + local number
- Example: 00-960-XXX-XXXX
From Australia:
Dial 0011 (exit code) + 960 + local number
- Example: 0011-960-XXX-XXXX
From other countries:
Most nations use 00 as their international exit code, though exceptions exist (Japan uses 010, South Korea uses 001).
Specific Dialing Examples
Example 1 - Calling a Male landline from USA:
To reach number 332-0123 in Male, dial: 011-960-332-0123
Example 2 - Calling a Maldivian mobile from UK:
For mobile number 791-2345, dial: 00-960-791-2345
Example 3 - Calling resort landline from Australia:
To contact number 664-0987, dial: 0011-960-664-0987
Important Notes About Leading Zeros
Maldives phone numbers typically don't use leading zeros in their local format. When you see a Maldivian number written domestically, simply add your exit code and 960 before the complete number shown. Unlike some countries where you drop a leading zero, Maldivian numbers are dialed exactly as written locally.
Mobile vs. Landline Recognition
Maldivian mobile numbers typically start with 7, 9, or other specific prefixes, while landlines often begin with 3, 6, or other digits depending on the location. The dialing process remains identical regardless of whether you're calling a mobile or landline—always use the same format: exit code + 960 + complete local number.
The Easy Way with ZippCall
Don't want to memorize exit codes, country codes, and dialing formats? With ZippCall, you don't have to.
Simply select "Maldives" from the country list, enter the local phone number exactly as you see it, and ZippCall automatically handles all the international dialing codes for you. No confusion, no mistakes—just easy calling.
Join 7,748 users who choose ZippCall for simple international calling.
Common Mistakes
When calling the Maldives, avoid these common mistakes that can prevent your call from connecting:
1. Forgetting to drop the leading zero
Maldivian phone numbers often appear with a leading zero domestically (like 0771-2345). When calling internationally, you must remove this zero. Dial +960 followed by the number without the zero.
2. Using the wrong exit code
Many people dial "011" assuming it's universal, but exit codes vary by country. The US and Canada use 011, while most European countries use 00, and some nations use other codes. Check your country's specific exit code or simply use the "+" symbol instead.
3. Confusing the country code with an area code
The Maldives uses +960 as its country code with no additional area codes. Simply dial +960 followed by the 7-digit local number. Don't add extra digits thinking you need a city code.
4. Including incorrect spacing or hyphens
While formatting like +960-771-2345 helps readability, when actually dialing, enter only numbers without spaces or hyphens. These characters can cause connection failures on many phone systems.
Cultural Etiquette
When making phone calls in the Maldives, understanding local customs ensures respectful and effective communication. Maldivians typically greet callers with "Assalaamu alaikum" (peace be upon you), reflecting the country's Islamic culture. Responding with "Wa alaikumu salaam" is appropriate and appreciated.
For business calls, maintain a formal tone, especially during initial contact. Use titles and surnames unless invited to do otherwise. Personal calls can be more relaxed, though starting with polite greetings remains important. Maldivians value courtesy, so avoid rushing directly into your purpose without brief pleasantries.
Timing matters significantly. Avoid calling during prayer times, particularly Friday prayers, which are central to the week. Early mornings before 8 AM and late evenings after 9 PM are generally unsuitable unless urgent or previously arranged. During Ramadan, be mindful that people may be fasting and adjust calling times accordingly.
If reaching voicemail, leaving a clear message with your name, reason for calling, and contact information is expected. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace, as English and Dhivehi are both commonly used.
A unique consideration is the Maldives' strong emphasis on community and relationships. Building rapport through patient, respectful conversation is valued over transactional efficiency. Don't be surprised if conversations include inquiries about family or wellbeing—this demonstrates genuine interest and strengthens connections. Understanding these customs shows cultural sensitivity and facilitates smoother communication throughout the islands.
Ready to call Maldives?
ZippCall lets you make cheap international calls to Maldives from any device. No contracts, no hidden fees—just simple pay-as-you-go rates.
Join 7,748 users making affordable international calls with ZippCall.
Emergency Numbers
Police: 119
Ambulance: 102
Fire Department: 118
General Emergency (Tourist Police): 332 2111
Coast Guard: 191
All emergency numbers in the Maldives are toll-free and accessible from both landlines and mobile phones, including international SIM cards. The services operate 24/7 throughout the year.
English-speaking operators are generally available, particularly through the Tourist Police line, which is specifically designed to assist visitors. However, on remote islands, there may be occasional language barriers.
For resort emergencies, contact your hotel reception first, as they can coordinate with emergency services more efficiently and often have direct lines to medical facilities in Malé. International visitors should also keep their embassy contact information readily available. Response times vary significantly depending on your location, with faster service in Malé and popular tourist areas.
Useful Numbers
Directory Assistance & Information Services
- Directory Enquiries: 110 - For local phone numbers and business listings
- International Operator: 190 - Assistance with overseas calls and connections
Tourist & Travel Services
- Maldives Tourist Helpline: +960 332-3224 - 24/7 assistance for visitor inquiries and complaints
- Maldives Immigration: +960 332-3232 - Visa and immigration queries
Embassy Contacts
Contact your embassy through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs: +960 332-3400, which can direct you to relevant diplomatic missions.
Useful Services
- Maldives Airports Company: +960 333-5555 - Flight information and airport services
- Dhiraagu Customer Service: 123 - Main telecom provider support
- Ooredoo Customer Service: 929 - Alternative telecom provider
- Weather Information: Maldives Meteorological Service +960 331-5612
Keep these numbers accessible during your stay for convenient assistance.
Tips for Calling Maldives
When calling the Maldives (UTC+5), timing is crucial for successful connections. The country is 5 hours ahead of GMT, so plan accordingly based on your location. For business calls, aim for 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Maldivian time, Tuesday through Thursday, when offices are fully operational. Avoid calling on Fridays, the Islamic holy day, when many businesses close or operate limited hours.
Schedule business calls in advance, especially when dealing with resorts or government offices. This ensures your contact is available and prepared for discussion. Major holidays like Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha significantly impact business operations—research current dates as they shift annually.
For personal calls, late evenings (7:00-10:00 PM Maldivian time) often work best for reaching individuals after work. Consider off-peak hours for potentially better connection rates, though modern telecommunications have largely eliminated this advantage.
To ensure clear communication, speak slowly and confirm important details. English is widely spoken in business settings, but asking if your timing is convenient shows respect. Internet-based calls through WhatsApp or similar apps often provide clearer connections than traditional phone lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
The country code for Maldives is +960. You need to dial this code before the local phone number when making international calls to Maldives from anywhere in the world.
To call Maldives from your cell phone, dial: your country's exit code (often + or 011), then 960 (Maldives country code), followed by the 7-digit local phone number. For example: +960-XXXXXXX.
Maldives phone numbers don't use a leading zero in their local format. Simply dial +960 followed by the 7-digit local number directly without any modifications or prefixes.
The cheapest way to call Maldives is using ZippCall, which offers affordable pay-as-you-go international calling rates. With ZippCall, you can call from your web browser, iPhone, or Android device with no contracts, no subscriptions, and no hidden fees—just transparent, low-cost rates for calling Maldives.
In Maldives, dial 119 for police emergencies, 102 for fire services, and 119 for ambulance services. The general emergency number is 119. These numbers can be dialed free of charge from any phone.
Yes! ZippCall allows you to make calls to Maldives directly from your web browser. No downloads or apps required—simply log in to ZippCall's website and start calling Maldives instantly with affordable rates.
Start Calling Maldives Today
Now that you know how to dial, make cheap calls to Maldives with ZippCall's crystal-clear connections and unbeatable rates.
Join7,748users who have made13,741minutes of calls in the last 7 days.
View rates for calling Maldives