I Visited the Only 100% Muslim Country | Maldives First Impressions 🇲🇻

In this video I explore my first impressions of the Maldives 🇲🇻, the only 100% Muslim country in the world, going beyond the luxury resorts and into the real local side of life in the capital city of Malé. The trip begins as I fly into the Maldives, where I also share practical travel information including visas, flight routes, and how to actually get here depending on your passport and budget. I start the day with a traditional Maldivian breakfast including rihaakuru, mas huni, and roshi before heading out to explore the city. My first stop is the King Salman Mosque, one of the most prominent modern mosques in Malé and an important place for worship and community gatherings. Here I join the local community for Jummah prayers, experiencing Friday traditions in this 100% Muslim country, before heading out into the city. After Jummah, I go to a famous local lunch spot to try traditional Maldivian food and continue experiencing Friday culture in Malé. From there I explore the Maldives fish market and the nearby Dhathuruveringe Market for fruits and vegetables, where I show the unique seafood, produce, and ingredients used in everyday Maldivian cooking. I continue into Sultan Park, walking through one of the most historic areas of Malé and visiting the nearby mosque, which reflects the deep Islamic heritage and history of the city. I also visit Masjid al-Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu al-Auzam, also known as the Islamic Centre Mosque, which is easily recognised by its golden dome and tall minaret. Built in 1984, it stands as an important landmark in Malé and a central place for Jummah prayers and national religious gatherings. At night I explore Hulhumalé, an artificial island built to expand the capital due to population growth, and explain how modern Maldives has developed beyond the main city of Malé. To finish the day I enjoy a large Maldivian local dinner and experience what locals actually eat in their daily lives. I also try Baibalaa, a traditional Maldivian team sport played between two sides where players use their hands to strike and pass a small ball using speed, timing, and teamwork. It remains an important part of local culture and community life. This is just the beginning of my Maldives series with more videos coming soon exploring islands, culture, hidden local life, and travel insights including visas and how to get to different countries around the world. Special thanks to @maldives_islamic_tourism for showing me around and helping me experience the local culture, food, and Islamic heritage of the Maldives beyond the resorts. #maldives #maldivesvlog #waleedtravels #maldivesfood #hulhumale #malemaldives