The Maldives is globally known for its luxury resorts, pristine beaches, and strong tourism industry. Beyond its image as a holiday paradise, the country also offers diverse employment opportunities for both locals and expatriates. In 2026, salaries in the Maldives reflect a service-driven economy, with tourism, hospitality, construction, healthcare, and government services playing dominant roles.
This comprehensive guide explores average salaries in the Maldives in 2026, pay by job and sector, minimum wage regulations, cost of living, taxes, benefits, and future salary trends. Whether you are planning to work in the Maldives, recruit talent, or simply researching income levels, this article provides accurate.
Overview of the Maldives Economy and Labor Market (2026)
The Maldivian economy is heavily dependent on tourism, which contributes a significant share of GDP and employment. Supporting sectors include fisheries, construction, transportation, retail, healthcare, and public administration.
Key Labor Market Characteristics
- Tourism and hospitality dominate employment
- High demand for foreign workers in resorts
- Government and public services offer stability
- Wages vary widely between local islands and resorts
- Strong reliance on expatriate labor
The Maldives employs a large number of foreign workers, particularly from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
Average Salary in Maldives 2026
Salaries in the Maldives vary greatly depending on profession, experience, and whether employment is in a resort or on local islands.
Estimated Salary Levels (2026)
- Average monthly salary: MVR 8,000 – 15,000
- Average annual salary: MVR 96,000 – 180,000
- Skilled professionals: MVR 18,000 – 40,000 per month
- Senior managers and specialists: MVR 45,000 – 80,000 per month
(USD equivalents vary depending on exchange rates.)
Minimum Wage in Maldives (2026)
The Maldives introduced a national minimum wage system covering both public and private sectors.
Official Minimum Wage (Monthly)
- Unskilled workers: MVR 4,500
- Semi-skilled workers: MVR 6,000
- Skilled workers: MVR 7,500
- Professionals: MVR 9,000 – 12,000
Resort employees often earn above the minimum wage due to service charges and tips.
Salaries in Maldives by Major Sector (2026)
1. Tourism and Hospitality Sector
Tourism is the backbone of the Maldivian economy and the highest employer.
- Hotel Receptionist: MVR 7,000 – 12,000
- Housekeeping Staff: MVR 6,000 – 10,000
- Waiter / Waitress: MVR 6,500 – 11,000
- Chef: MVR 12,000 – 25,000
- Resort Supervisor: MVR 18,000 – 30,000
- Resort Manager: MVR 40,000 – 70,000
Many resort jobs include free accommodation, meals, transport, and service charge income, significantly increasing total earnings.
2. Government and Public Administration
Government jobs are highly sought after for stability and benefits.
- Administrative Assistant: MVR 8,000 – 12,000
- Clerk: MVR 7,500 – 11,000
- Government Officer: MVR 12,000 – 20,000
- Policy Analyst: MVR 18,000 – 30,000
- Senior Civil Servant: MVR 35,000 – 60,000
Public-sector salaries are structured and paid regularly.
3. Healthcare and Medical Jobs
Healthcare professionals are in constant demand.
- Nurse: MVR 12,000 – 22,000
- Medical Technician: MVR 15,000 – 25,000
- Pharmacist: MVR 18,000 – 30,000
- General Practitioner: MVR 30,000 – 55,000
- Specialist Doctor: MVR 50,000 – 90,000
Foreign medical professionals often receive housing and travel allowances.
4. Education Sector
The education system employs both local and foreign teachers.
- Primary School Teacher: MVR 10,000 – 18,000
- Secondary School Teacher: MVR 14,000 – 25,000
- International School Teacher: MVR 25,000 – 45,000
- Lecturer: MVR 20,000 – 35,000
- School Principal: MVR 30,000 – 55,000
International schools offer higher salaries and benefits.
5. Construction and Skilled Trades
Infrastructure development continues across the islands.
- Construction Laborer: MVR 6,000 – 9,000
- Mason: MVR 8,000 – 14,000
- Electrician: MVR 12,000 – 20,000
- Plumber: MVR 12,000 – 22,000
- Site Supervisor: MVR 20,000 – 35,000
- Civil Engineer: MVR 30,000 – 55,000
Many construction workers are expatriates on fixed contracts.
6. Fisheries and Marine Industry
Fishing remains culturally and economically important.
- Fisherman: MVR 6,000 – 12,000
- Boat Crew Member: MVR 7,000 – 14,000
- Fish Processing Worker: MVR 6,500 – 10,000
- Marine Officer: MVR 15,000 – 25,000
- Industry Manager: MVR 25,000 – 45,000
Income may fluctuate with seasons and catch volume.
7. Retail, Sales, and Customer Service
Retail jobs are common in Malé and tourist areas.
- Sales Assistant: MVR 6,000 – 10,000
- Cashier: MVR 6,500 – 9,500
- Store Supervisor: MVR 12,000 – 18,000
- Sales Manager: MVR 20,000 – 35,000
8. IT, Finance, and Corporate Roles
These roles are limited but well paid.
- IT Support Officer: MVR 15,000 – 25,000
- Software Developer: MVR 25,000 – 45,000
- Accountant: MVR 18,000 – 30,000
- Financial Analyst: MVR 25,000 – 40,000
- Corporate Manager: MVR 40,000 – 70,000
Salaries by Experience Level
- Entry-Level: MVR 6,000 – 10,000
- Mid-Level: MVR 12,000 – 25,000
- Senior-Level: MVR 30,000 – 55,000
- Executive Roles: MVR 60,000 – 90,000
Experience, certifications, and employer type strongly influence pay.
Cost of Living in Maldives (2026)
The Maldives has one of the highest living costs in South Asia, especially in Malé.
Average Monthly Expenses
- Rent (1-bedroom): MVR 6,000 – 12,000
- Utilities: MVR 800 – 1,500
- Groceries: MVR 3,000 – 5,500
- Transportation: MVR 300 – 800
- Internet & Mobile: MVR 500 – 1,000
Living on local islands is cheaper than in the capital.
Taxes and Salary Deductions
The Maldives does not impose traditional income tax.
Key Deductions
- Pension contribution: Mandatory (employee & employer)
- Service charges: Common in resorts
- No personal income tax
This makes net take-home pay relatively attractive.
Employee Benefits in Maldives
Common benefits include:
- Paid annual leave
- Sick leave
- Public holidays
- Pension scheme
- Free accommodation (resorts)
- Meals and transport (resorts)
Expatriate contracts often include flights and visas.
Public vs Private Sector Salaries
- Public Sector: Stable, moderate pay, strong job security
- Private Sector: Variable salaries, performance-based
- Tourism Sector: Highest earning potential with benefits
Working in the Maldives as a Foreigner
Foreign workers require:
- Valid job offer
- Work permit
- Employment visa
- Medical clearance
Most foreign workers are employed in tourism, construction, healthcare, and education.
Future Salary Trends in Maldives (2026–2030)
- Continued growth in tourism salaries
- Increased demand for skilled professionals
- Gradual minimum wage adjustments
- Expansion of luxury resort employment
- Digital and IT roles gaining importance
Why Work in the Maldives
- Tax-free income
- Strong tourism industry
- International work environment
- Competitive resort benefits
- Unique island lifestyle
Conclusion
Salaries in the Maldives in 2026 vary widely by sector, with tourism and skilled professions offering the highest earning potential. While the cost of living can be high, tax-free income, employer benefits, and accommodation support—especially in resorts—make the Maldives an attractive destination for both local and foreign workers. With steady economic growth driven by tourism and infrastructure development, employment prospects remain strong.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the average salary in the Maldives in 2026?
The average monthly salary ranges from MVR 8,000 to 15,000, depending on sector and experience.
2. What is the minimum wage in the Maldives?
Minimum wages range from MVR 4,500 to MVR 12,000, based on skill level.
3. Are salaries in the Maldives tax-free?
Yes, the Maldives does not have personal income tax.
4. Which jobs pay the most in the Maldives?
Resort managers, doctors, engineers, pilots, and senior executives earn the highest salaries.
5. Can foreigners work legally in the Maldives?
Yes, with a valid work permit and employment visa.