The Maldives is an archipelago comprising 1,190 low-lying coral islands scattered across the equator, in groups of 26 naturally occurring atolls which are divided into 20 for administrative purposes.

The atolls of Maldives are part of a greater structure known as the Laccadives-Chagos Ridge, which stretches over 2000 kilometres. The islands of Maldives are very low lying with the highest point at approximately 8 feet above sea level. ‘Faru’ or ring-shaped reef structures form the atolls and these provide natural defence against wind and wave action, on the delicate Maldives islands.

An indication of the perfection of Maldives atoll structure is the fact that the word ‘atoll’ in the English Language – meaning ‘ring-shaped coral reef enclosing a lagoon’, is a borrowing from the Maldivian language ‘Dhivehi’.

Of the more than 1900 tropical islands that make the paradise that is Maldives, only about 200 are inhabited. Of the remaining islands about a 98 have been developed into exotic resort islands that offer tourists their own hideaway – hidden away from all the hectic hustle and bustle of city life.

The capital of Maldives – Malé, the hub of government and the centre of trade, commerce, business, health and education, is located in the middle of the atoll chain, a small island buzzing with the sounds and activities. It is estimated that more than 150,000 people which is more than one third of the population country’s population lives in this island. Malé is arguably the smallest urban capital in the whole world.