Warning Issued over Foreigners Wearing Revealing Clothing in Public

Police have issued a warning that legal action will be taken against foreign nationals residing in or visiting the Maldives who dress revealingly in public, in violation of public decency standards.

In an announcement released yesturday, police noted an increasing trend of foreign residents wearing “skimpy or revealing clothing” on streets and in public spaces, conflicting with community social norms.

#MPSPressStatement: 171-A(C1)/PS/2026/08 – Bidheyseennaai fathuruverin aanmu ijuthimaaee mingan'duthaka eggothah hedhun elhumah ilthimaaskurun https://t.co/CfNqGC1ToI pic.twitter.com/Jd8KQygtbG

— Maldives Police (@PoliceMv) October 2, 2026

Authorities stated that such behavior violates public standards of decency, creating conditions that could negatively impact community peace and stability if left unchecked. Steps will be taken to prevent these occurrences before they escalate.

“We inform that action will be taken against such individuals under Law No. 2010/11 (Prevention of Public Decency Violations Act) in the execution of our statutory responsibilities to stop these acts,” the police statement read.

Police appealed to employers and sponsors of foreign workers to raise awareness and advise them to refrain from displaying such behavior in public.

Additionally, police urged foreign residents and tourists to respect Maldivian culture and customs when walking on public streets and in general public spaces outside of designated tourist zones.

Police reiterated that strict legal action will be enforced against anyone acting in violation of these guidelines.