Nestled on the southern end of the Maldives, Addu City beckons visitors to a paradise of diverse natural habitats and a thriving community. This city of islands boasts large land masses, distinctive geography, merged with rich history and culture to create a one-of-a-kind destination. A place where nature and human development coexist, Addu City is a forward-thinking community that takes pride in its authenticity and uniqueness.

Located right on the equator, Addu City enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, similar to the rest of the Maldives, with average temperatures hovering around 86°F (30°C) with high humidity. Visitors should pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the tropical climate.

The history of Addu City’s islands date back to the 13th century, with evidence suggesting that people had lived in the area for well over 2,000 years. It is believed that the first settlers were from Sri Lanka and India, and the Maldives was originally a Buddhist nation before converting to Islam 800 years ago. The island of Meedhoo in Addu was among the first in the Maldives to adopt Islam. Adduans (as they like to be referred to) have traditionally been self-sufficient, skilled in activities such as fishing, farming, and weaving. They are renowned for their strong trade and navigation abilities. Addu-built vessels regularly travelled to other countries for trade, making their way through international waters without much difficulty.

Addu City was once a major centre of trade and commerce in the Maldives and home to the country’s first international airport, the Royal Air Force (RAF) Gan. During World War II, RAF Gan served as a military base for the British. Some time following the end of the war, the airport was transformed into the Gan International Airport, improving connectivity for both locals and tourists visiting the region.