Dhivehi, The National Language of the Maldives
What is Dhivehi ?
Dhivehi is the national language of the Maldives. Spoken across the archipelago, it’s a unique Indo-Aryan language with deep cultural roots and a script all its own.
Dhivehi is an Indo-Aryan language closely related to Sinhala, the official language of Sri Lanka.
Despite this shared heritage, Maldivians and Sri Lankans cannot fully understand each other, as Dhivehi evolved independently over centuries.
Maldives history is rich in foreign influences. Over time, Dhivehi has also absorbed words and influences from Arabic, English, Portuguese, and Hindustani, reflecting the Maldives’ strategic location on ancient maritime trade routes.
Dhivehi is Written in Thaana, from Right to Left
Dhivehi uses the Thaana script, a unique writing system read from right to left, similar to Arabic. The script includes a mix of Arabic numerals and consonants, and is not commonly found outside the Maldives.
Speak Like a Local
Common Dhivehi Words and Phrases
Try these useful Dhivehi expressions during your stay in the Maldives. You might surprise the locals and earn a smile.
The u is pronounced as in input
Basic Greetings and Everyday Words
Don’t forget to roll your “R”s !
Hello
Assalaamu alaikum
pronounce
assalamualaikum
rarely used.
Thank you
Shukuriyaa
pronounce
shukureeya
common.
How are you ?
Kihineh ?
pronounce
kee-hee-nay
mostly used.
How are you doing ?
Haalu kihineh ?
pronounce
Ha-a-lu Kee-Hee-Nay
formal.
I feel good
Ran’galhu
pronounce
raangaalu
common.
I feel very good
Barabaru
pronounce
baaraabaaru
common but depends on your mood.
if you feel extremely well…
Varah Ran’galhu !
pronounce
Vaaraa Rangaalu
common but depends on your mood.
or if you feel even better !
Varah barabaru !
pronounce
Vaaraa baaraabaru
common but depends on your mood.
Bye bye
Dhanee
pronounce
daney
rarely used.
Yes
Aan
pronounce
aan
common.
No
Noon
pronounce
nun
mostly used.
BONUS
THE magic word.
THE one that saves you from many situations.
What to do ? / What can we do ?
Keekuranee ?
pronounce
keekuranee
very common ;-)
Continue exploring
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