Maldivian Rufiya (MVR) = 100 laari. Notes are in denominations of MVR500, 100, 50, 20, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of MVR2 and 1, and 50, 25, 10, 5, 2 and 1 laari.

Major currencies can be exchanged at banks, tourist resort islands, hotels and leading shops. Payments in hotels can be made in most hard currencies (particularly US Dollars) in cash, traveller’s cheques or credit cards.

Most major island resorts, local and souvenir shops will accept American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa. Arrangements vary from island to island. There are ATMs at a few places on the Capital Island.

These are generally accepted in Sterling and US Dollars. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller’s cheques in US Dollars.

Sun-Thurs 0800-1330.

Date	Apr 07
£1.00=	MVR25.30
$1.00=	MVR12.80
Eur;1.00=	MVR17.11

The following goods may be imported into the Maldives without incurring customs duty:

• A reasonable amount of cigarettes, cigars and tobacco.
• A reasonable number of gifts.

Note: An official licence is required to import alcohol.

Pornographic literature; idols of worship; dogs, pigs or pork products; explosives and weapons; alcoholic beverages. Drugs are strictly prohibited; the penalty for importing drugs for personal or other use is life imprisonment. Animals require a veterinary certificate.

The following may not be exported in any form: tortoise and turtle shells and products made of turtle shell (the Government has banned the killing of turtles), and black coral in whole form.