Ari Atoll is one of natural atolls of the Maldives. It is one of the biggest atolls and is located in the west of the archipelago. The almost rectangular alignment spreads the islands over an area of about 89x30 kilometres. It has been divided in two sections for administrative purposes, Northern Ari Atoll and Southern Ari Atoll consisting of 105 islands. Ari Atoll is part of the zone designated for tourist development in the Maldives.
There are more than 20 islands in the Atoll designated for tourist resorts. Each island resort is self-contained with accommodation and recreational facilities such as tennis court. Scuba diving is the most popular tourist activity in the Maldives. The diving in Ari Atoll is extensive and is often defined by location within the atoll, either North or South.
The main tourist resorts are Ari Beach, Halaveli, Maayyafushi, Twin Islands Resort, Dhoni Mighilli and Twin Island Resort.
Things to See & Do
* Scuba diving
* Snorkeling
* Surfing
* Island excursions
* Water sports
General Information
Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR)
Language – Dhivehi
Population – 14,820 approx (Northern & Southern Ari Atoll)
Land Area – 2670 km²
Electricity – 2 round pins European style or with a round pin below
Time – GMT plus five hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 960
Port Location – The main port is located on the island of Male.
Travel Links – All visitors to the Maldives arrive at Malé International Airport located on Hulhulé Island right next to the capital Male. The airport is served by a wide array of flights to China, India, Sri Lanka, Dubai and major airports in South-East Asia, as well as an increasing number of charters from Europe. Many flights stop in Colombo (Sri Lanka) on the way.
It is roughly a 20 - 330 minute seaplane flight away from the Capital Malé to most resort islands. Speedboat transfers are available at some resorts, but take at least several hours.