Fares-Maathodaa (Dhivehi: ފަރެސްމާތޮޑާ) is an inhabited island in the Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll administrative division of the Maldives. Geographically, it is part of the Huvadhu Atoll in the southern region of the country.
History and Formation: Fares and Maathodaa were originally two separate islands until they were joined by the reclamation of the shallow water passage between them during the 1990s, forming a single unified landmass.
Geography: The island is located approximately 441 km (274 mi) south of the national capital, Malé, at coordinates 0°11′55″N 73°11′25″E. It covers an area of 48.7 hectares, with a length of 1.36 km and a width of 5.07 km.
Demographics: According to the 2014 census, the island had a population of 1,104 (including foreigners), up from 936 in 2006.
Economy and Livelihood: The local economy is primarily dependent on fishing. In recent years, the island has also developed guesthouse tourism and a domestic airport, making it accessible to visitors seeking an authentic local island experience in the Maldives.
Administration: Fares-Maathodaa is an island-level administrative constituency governed by the Fares-Maathodaa Island Council.
