Ari Atoll is one of natural atolls of the Maldives. It has been divided in two sections for administrative purposes, Northern Ari Atoll and Southern Ari Atoll. Ari Atoll is part of the zone designated for tourist development in the Maldives. It is roughly a 30 minute seaplane flight away from the Capital Malé. There are more than 20 islands in the Atoll designated for tourist resorts. Each island resort is self contained with accommodation and recreational facilities such as tennis court. Scuba diving is the most popular tourist activity in the Maldives. The diving in Ari Atoll is extensive and is often defined by location within the atoll, either North or South. The main tourist resorts were Ari Beach, Halaveli and Maayafushi.
