The primary language spoken in the Maldives is Dhivehi. This language is part of the Indo-Aryan language group and is unique to the Maldivian culture, which has been heavily influenced by various historical trade routes and cultural exchanges. Dhivehi uses a script called Thaana, which was developed in the 18th century, and is written from right to left. While Dhivehi is the official language, English is widely used in tourism and business sectors, allowing communication with international visitors. The preservation of Dhivehi is essential for maintaining the Maldivian identity.