Improving conditions for holidaymakers in Thoddoo
Since August 2025 Thoddoo has gained a US dollar ATM, a bank branch and, from February 2026, seaplane flights. Here is what changed for visitors, what we could confirm and what we could not.
A US dollar ATM
On 20 August 2025 the President of the Maldives, Dr Mohamed Muizzu, took part in the launch of a new USD ATM service by Bank of Maldives (BML) on Thoddoo. BML had put its first ATMs on the island about five years earlier.
According to the bank, residents and businesses no longer need to travel to another island to get US dollars, and Thoddoo was chosen for its tourism and agritourism.
The bank’s announcement does not say that the machine exchanges currency, and it gives no fees or list of supported cards. Check with your own bank before you rely on it, and bring enough cash for the first days.
A bank branch
On the same day in August 2025 a groundbreaking ceremony was held for a new BML branch on Thoddoo, which the bank said it expected to complete the following year.
On 1 April 2026 the news site The Standard reported that the President had opened six new BML branches, including one on Thoddoo, with operations starting the next day. We have not seen the bank’s own notice, so check the opening hours before you plan to use the branch.
Seaplane flights and the harbour
In August 2025 the state company MTCC was contracted to build a seaplane platform on the south side of Thoddoo: a 430-metre jetty, a platform six metres wide and a 70-metre revetment, at an estimated MVR 52 million.
Maldivian started scheduled seaplane flights to Thoddoo on 12 February 2026, on Thursdays and Saturdays. Our article on the seaplane has the times, the fare and a comparison with the speedboat.
What it means for guests
- You can get US dollars on the island, but do not rely on one machine: bring some cash for the first days.
- Seaplane and speedboat transfers both reach Thoddoo, and our team meets guests at the pier.
- Ask us before you travel if you need the latest on the ATM, the branch or the transfers.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an ATM on Thoddoo?
Yes. Bank of Maldives launched a USD ATM service on the island in August 2025.
Does the ATM exchange currency?
The bank’s announcement does not say so. It describes access to US dollars.
Is there a bank branch on Thoddoo?
The Standard reported on 1 April 2026 that BML opened a branch on Thoddoo. Check the opening hours before you go.
Do seaplanes fly to Thoddoo?
Yes, Maldivian has flown on Thursdays and Saturdays since 12 February 2026.
Should I still bring cash?
Yes, for the first days and as a back-up. Check fees and card support with your own bank.
Reviewed by the Relax Residence team in October 2026.
