Area Code 684 – Gaafu Dhaalu

Overview of Area Code 684 (Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll)

Area code 684 is a geographic National Destination Code (NDC) assigned to the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll in the Republic of Maldives. This atoll, also known as South Huvadhu Atoll, is part of the administrative division of the Maldives and includes several inhabited islands such as Gadhdhoo, Madaveli, Hoadedhdhoo, and Nadallaa. The code is used for fixed-line (PSTN) services within this region, following the ITU-T E.164 numbering plan.

Dialing Format and Usage

To call a fixed-line number in Gaafu Dhaalu from abroad, you must dial the international prefix (e.g., 00 or +), followed by the Maldives country code +960, then the area code 684, and finally the subscriber's 4-digit local number. For example, a complete international number would look like: +960 684 XXXX (where XXXX is the local line number). When dialing domestically within the Maldives, callers simply dial 684 XXXX without the country code. It is important to note that the Maldives uses a closed numbering plan, meaning that the full national number (including the NDC) is always dialed, even for local calls within the same atoll.

Geographic Coverage and Administration

Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll is located in the southern province of the Maldives and is administered by the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll Council. The atoll's economy is primarily based on fishing, tourism, and agriculture. The area code 684 is allocated exclusively for fixed-line services, distinguishing it from mobile prefixes which are non-geographic and begin with 7, 8, or 9. This geographic allocation ensures that callers can identify the general location of the line, which is useful for billing and emergency services.

Caller Instructions

For local callers within the Maldives, simply dial 684 followed by the 4-digit subscriber number. For international callers, always use +960 684 followed by the local number. Ensure that you drop any leading trunk prefix (if applicable) and use the plus sign (+) when dialing from a mobile phone to indicate the international access code. Since the Maldives does not use area code overlays, there is no need to dial an additional prefix for calls within the same atoll.

When calling from a VoIP service or a mobile network, the same international format applies. It is advisable to confirm the number with the recipient, as fixed-line numbers in the Maldives may be ported to other operators, but the geographic NDC remains unchanged.