South Ari Marine Protected Area

The largest marine protected area in the Maldives, located in South Ari Atoll, known for year-round whale shark sightings and attracting tourists.

The South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) is the largest marine protected area in the Maldives, located in South Ari Atoll, designated in 2009 and known for year-round whale shark sightings. It is managed by the Environment Ministry under the Environmental Protection and Preservation Act, with regulations including propeller guards, speed limits, and vessel registration to protect whale sharks and balance conservation with tourism.