Mathiveri Island: Maldives’ Fishing Heart & Community Island in Alif Alif
Geographic Setting and Location
Mathiveri is one of the inhabited islands in Alif Alif Atoll (North Ari Atoll), located toward the central region of the atoll chain in the Maldives. It lies about 84.58 kilometers west of the capital Malé. This island benefits from easy access to marine routes and is part of a cluster of local islands known for their traditional island life.
Size, Shape, and Landscape
The island is approximately 0.775 kilometers in length and 0.475 kilometers in width, covering a modest land area. It has a compact shape with sandy shores, coconut palms, and native vegetation. The shoreline is reinforced naturally by coral rubble and coastal vegetation. The interior is flat, enabling easy walking around the island.
Population and Community Life
As of the 2022 census, Mathiveri has a population of about 878 people. The gender split is roughly 466 males and 412 females. Citizenship is predominantly Maldivian, with some foreign residents. The community is close-knit with strong local participation in fishing, small businesses, and island administration.
Economy: Fishing, Guesthouses & Local Livelihoods
Fishing is a central part of Mathiveri’s economy, especially tuna fishing (yellowfin, skipjack), with both pole-and-line methods and small commercial operations. Many residents also work in nearby resort islands. There are about 10 guesthouses catering to tourists, which contributes to income and creates local jobs in hospitality and services.
Infrastructure & Social Services
The island has essential services including a school up to grade 10, a health center staffed by medical officers, nurses, and supporting staff, and law enforcement via a police station and magistrate’s court. Utilities such as water, waste management, and basic amenities are provided to meet daily needs of the community.
Culture, Traditions & Community Governance
Local culture is strong in Mathiveri. Traditional values, food, music, crafts are part of daily life. Community governance is done through the island council, which is responsible for managing development, public services, and local regulations. Festivals, religious observances, and community gatherings are important to residents.
Beaches, Reef & Marine Life
Mathiveri features sandy beaches and lagoon waters suitable for swimming and snorkeling. Although not as large as resort islands, the reef ecosystem supports reef fish, octopus, and baitfish. The marine environment is integral to fishing livelihoods and tourism experiences.
Access & Transportation
Mathiveri is accessible via boat (speedboats or ferries) from Malé or other islands in the atoll. Internally, walking is common because of the small size; bicycles may be used. Boat connections are important for transporting goods, fish, and for tourists arriving at guesthouses.
Climate & Best Visiting Period
The island has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. The dry season (roughly from November to April) features clearer skies and calmer seas, making it the best time for beach activities and snorkeling. The wet season (May to October) can bring rain and more cloud cover, though scenes are more lush and fewer tourists are around.
Tourism & Visitor Experiences
Visitors to Mathiveri can experience a more authentic island life: staying in guesthouses, interacting with fishing communities, watching tuna fishing, engaging in snorkeling, enjoying quiet beaches, and participating in local culture. It offers a more peaceful alternative to resort islands, appealing to travelers who want nature, community, and simplicity.
General info
Administrative Division
Mathiveri is one of the eight inhabited islands of Alif Alif Atoll (North Ari).
The island falls under local island council governance and contributes to the atoll’s overall marine and community economy.
Coordinates
Latitude ~ 4.191563° N, Longitude ~ 72.745802° E.
These coordinates place Mathiveri centrally in North Ari, relatively remote but accessible by sea.
Island Dimensions
Approx. 0.775 km long and 0.475 km wide.
The compact size makes it easy to walk around; most amenities are not far apart.
Population
Total about 878 people (2022).
Includes both male and female residents; some foreign citizens residing there too.
Primary Industries
Total about 878 people (2022).
Includes both male and female residents; some foreign citizens residing there too.
Primary Industries
Fishing (tuna and reef fish) and guesthouse tourism.
Fishing supports both local consumption and export; guesthouses provide local jobs and alternative income.
Number of Guesthouses
Around 10 guesthouses serving visitors.
These guesthouses are small, often family-run, offering authentic stays with local hosts.
Education & Health Facilities
Has a school up to grade 10 and a health centre.
Health center operates many hours per day; education supports local children until secondary level.
Law & Governance
Police station, magistrate court, and island council.
Local governance ensures rule of law, public order, and community decision-making.
Marine Environment
Reef fish, baitfish, octopus; tuna fishing fleet.
Reef is important not just for tourism but for fishing sustainability and local food supply.
Travel & Transportation
Accessible by boat; internal transport mostly walking or by bicycle.
Boat access is key for supplies and visitor travel; timing of sea conditions influences ease of travel.
FAQs about
Mathiveri
Mathiveri is about 84.6 kilometers west of Malé.
It is roughly 0.775 km in length and 0.475 km wide.
About 878 people as of the 2022 census.
Fishing (especially tuna, reef fish) and guesthouse tourism are the main economic activities.
Yes, there are around 10 guesthouses where visitors can stay.
There is a school (grade up to 10), a health centre, shops, utilities, and local restaurants or cafés.
Yes, snorkeling is possible with reef fish and marine life, though the reef is not as large or developed as on resort islands.
The dry season from November to April is best for beach activities, clear skies, calm seas.
The island is governed by an island council, has law enforcement via a police station and magistrate court.
Yes. Mathiveri offers a quieter, more traditional Maldivian atmosphere with strong community, fishing culture, simple guesthouse stays and marine based experiences.