An atoll which is "a ring-shaped coral reef and small islands, enclosing a lagoon and surrounded by open sea" is also known as ‘Dhivei' by Maldivians in their native language . Maldives consists of 1190 islands (199 inhabited and 88 are used as resort islands), and they make up 25 distinct geographical atoll formations. They extend in a north - south direction over a distance of 868 km between latitude s 7°6'30"N and 0°42'30"S.

The 25 atolls are divided into 21 administrative regions. Male, the capital, is an entity in itself as the 21st region. These administrative regions are named after the letters of the Maldivian alphabet and begin with 'Haa", in the north to "Seenu" in the south. Some administrative regions are divided into north (alifu)/south (dhaalu) zones.

Maldivian islands have their own reef, lagoon, coral sand, vegetation as grass, bushes, or trees. The population of almost all islands ranges between 600 and 2000, but Male (80000) or Fuvam Mulah (10000) are exceptions. The total population of the Maldives in 2003 was 327,135.

A number of islands are being developed to provide all public conveniences and to act as hubs for island population growth. Facilities such as schools, hospitals and harbors are being directed to these islands as well as other investments to encourage employment. Land reclamation on some islands will provide more space for housing.

The climate is generally warm and humid. The sun shines all year through. Average temperature is around 29 - 32 degrees Celsius. The warm, tropical climate attracts divers and travelers from around the world to the resorts and safari vessels in Maldives for the most memorable vacation.

Fishing has traditionally been carried out in theclear waters of the Maldivian islands. There are 54 fishing islands as major islands for fishing industry (In 54 of them, fishing is a major industry.). Some inhabited and uninhabited islands are considered as the major contributors to agricultural production in the Maldives .

Numerous Marine Protected Areas have been established by the Government of Maldives since 1995. These areas are recognized for their diversity, significance or proximity to resorts and for being exceptional diving areas.