The Maldives is a predominantly Muslim nation and as such it celebrates all of the popular Islamic festivals with as much enthusiasm and gusto as other Islamic countries. The nation also has a small selection of non-religious festivals which are specific to the archipelago. Invariably, national holidays are based around significant events in history.

Eid-ul-Adha: the Muslim community celebrates this popular Islamic festival which is held in remembrance of Allah asking Ibrahim to sacrifice his son Isaac.

El am Hejir New Year: the Islamic New Year is a celebration which remembers the time when Mohammed was forced to flee from Mecca and head to Medina due to hostility in the former destination.

Eid-Milad Nnabi: Muslims celebrate Mohammed’s birthday in this lively festival which runs for nine days and sees parades, feasts and parties in all of the populated areas of the Maldives.

Islam Day: the Muslim community celebrates the day on which Islam was officially introduced to the Maldives, in 1153. The Buddhist king of the time was converted to Islam by the traveller Abu al Barakat.

Independence Day: Maldivian locals celebrate their nation’s independence on 26 July with official celebrations held in Republic Square on the island of Malé. An army march takes place, followed by a parade with brightly coloured floats and displays of traditional dancing.

Ramadan: the festival is a time for Muslims to observe abstinence and denial. Visitors may find some shops and services operate within limited hours during the month-long period.

Kuda Eid: the end of Ramadan is marked by the lively Eid celebrations, during which time Muslims in the Maldives get together with family and friends for feasting. The atmosphere in the heavily populated areas is vibrant and the locals are invariably in high spirits.

Victory Day: held on 3 November every year, Maldivians celebrate their nation’s liberation from Sri Lanka in 1988.

Republic Day: held annually on 11 November, the nation celebrates the founding of the republic in 1968.

Hajj Day: Haji Day is a day on which many Muslims begin the trip to Mecca, which Islam states worshippers are obliged to make (health and finances permitting) at least once during their lifetime.

Eid-ul-Adha: comes one day after Hajj Day and is also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice. It remembers the time when Ibrahim was prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac to God.