Independence Day (Maldives)

Independence Day is a public holiday in the Maldives, observed on July 26 each year.

Independence Day commemorates the anniversary of the Maldives gaining independence from the United Kingdom on July 26, 1965.

The Maldives had cultural and economic ties with its nearest neighbors, Sri Lanka and India, for centuries before the arrival of the Europeans. Since the 16th century, the Portuguese, the Dutch, and the French successively took over the islands.

On December 16, 1887, Maldives officially became a British protectorate. The British Empire controlled the Maldives' foreign policy, but the Maldives got military protection and internal administration.

In line with the broader British decolonization policy, on July 26, 1965, Maldives signed an agreement with the United Kingdom and gained independence. During Independence Day, various festive events are held throughout the country.

The following is the list of Independence Day in the Maldives from 2022 to 2026.

Please check more public holidays in the Maldives: