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Maldives Independence Day – July 26, 2024

Maldives Independence Day is marked on July 26 annually. The holiday commemorates the independence of Maldives, a beautiful country with unique picturesque beaches, from the British Empire after spending 77 years as a protectorate. The National Cadet Corps and performances by colorfully-costumed school children are among the attractions of this occasion. There is also a flag-hoisting ceremony. It is a public holiday, allowing most Maldivians to celebrate at home with their loved ones rather than going to work or school.

History of Maldives Independence Day

In the past, the Maldives, like many other countries throughout the world, was ruled by the British Empire. They, however, did not become a British Protectorate until 1887 after many attempts. The Maldives only benefited from the new status by preventing the British from interfering with their internal affairs. If the country were to engage in any international activity, the British government would have to be consulted first. To get the Maldives to cooperate, the British offered to defend the country in exchange.

On July 26, 1965, the Maldives was granted total autonomy. The independence was crucial because it gave the country the ability to take control of its economy and develop as it saw fit. The conclusion of World War II brought about the independence of two neighboring countries, Sri Lanka and India, both of which were colonized by the British, motivating the Maldives to pursue their own independence.

It became even more pressing when three southern atolls were claimed as part of a brief Suvadive Republic from 1959 to 1963. The Maldives was admitted as a member of the United Nations within two months of achieving independence. On October 12, 1965, their national flag was hoisted at the headquarters.

Maldives Independence Day timeline

1887
Under British Control

The British gain control of the Maldives.

1965
The Maldives Gains Independence

The Maldives gains full independence from the British, taking back their sovereignty.

1968
The Republic of Maldives

The Maldives becomes a republic three years after gaining independence from the British.

1976
The British Depart Fully

The last British troops leave the Maldives on March 29

Maldives Independence Day FAQs

Can I vacation in the Maldives?

Yes, you can. The country has been a popular tourist destination since the first resorts opened in the 1970s. Today, it boasts hundreds of thousands, even millions, of visitors yearly.

Which unique activity can I try in the Maldives?

The country is a haven for a wide variety of marine species. The largest fish in the ocean, the whale shark, can be found in the Maldives. Up to 20 feet long, these sea creatures are the stuff of legends, and the good news is, you can swim with them.

Why are the beaches in the Maldives different?

The Maldives is awe-inspiring thanks to the island’s breathtaking beaches. The beaches have a particularly unique quality; they’re built of coral. In contrast to most beaches, a coral beach comprises algae that have been dried and sun-bleached. Coralline beaches are extremely rare, accounting for approximately 5% of all beaches on the planet.

Maldives Independence Day Activities

  1. Go to the Maldives

    A good way to celebrate this day is to take a trip to the Maldives. Explore the beauty of the country while the festivities are going on. Watch the performances and parades, and discover what a typical Maldivian Independence Day celebration looks like.

  2. Observe the parades

    Enjoy the National Security Services and National Cadet Corps parades when you visit the Maldives or if you are a citizen. Experience the city as much as you can.

  3. Host a celebration

    Host a small-scale celebration and invite your friends to learn more about the country and its culture. Don’t forget to play some Maldivian traditional music.

5 Interesting Facts About The Maldives

  1. Asia’s smallest country

    The Maldives is Asia’s smallest country.

  2. The world’s lowest country

    The Maldives is the world’s lowest country with a ground level of 59 inches above sea level and the highest point being 91 inches above sea level.

  3. Diplomatic relations

    The Maldives has established ties with 184 countries since its independence.

  4. The smallest Muslim country

    The Maldives is the world’s smallest country to have Islam as its national religion.

  5. Underwater cabinet meeting

    The world’s first underwater cabinet meeting was held in the Maldives and spearheaded by President Mohamed Nasheed.

Why We Love Maldives Independence Day

  1. It celebrates autonomy

    The festivities allow the country to celebrate its sovereignty, and its ability to take charge of its own affairs and make decisions, economic and otherwise. This is a worthy celebration.

  2. It is a public holiday

    It’s a public holiday, so the citizens can relax and enjoy the celebrations. People get to rest and have some fun while they celebrate an important holiday.

  3. It honors a rich history

    While the Maldives may be famous for its beautiful beaches, it also has a very rich history. It has a beautiful culture that should be experienced by more people.

Maldives Independence Day dates

YearDateDay
2024July 26Friday
2025July 26Saturday
2026July 26Sunday
2027July 26Monday
2028July 26Wednesday

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