Baa Atoll is an administrative division of the Republic of Maldives and the atoll consists of three separate geographical atolls, namely southern Maalhosmadulu Atoll (which is 42 km long and 32 km wide and consists of 9 inhabited islands), Fasdūtherē Atoll (wedged in between the two Maalhosmadulu Atolls and separated from north Maalhosmasdulu Atoll (Raa Atoll) by Hani Kandu (Moresby Channel) and the smaller natural atoll known as Goidhoo Atoll (Horsburgh Atoll ).
A total of 118 islands, of which 13 are inhabited, supporting a population exceeding 18,000 residents. The remaining 105 islands are uninhabited with 18 islands developed as tourist resort islands while 4 islands have been leased for agricultural purposes.
Tourism is the primary economic driver for Baa Atoll and is the largest industry in the Maldives. The atoll attracts visitors year-round due to its unique ecological features, including premium resorts and local guesthouses.
The atoll is world-famous for its marine life, particularly the seasonal aggregations of manta rays and whale sharks at Hanifaru Bay and this has made dive centers and excursions a major part of the local economy.
Several islands within the atoll have been developed into luxury resorts, attracting high-end travelers and significant investment. Inhabited islands like Dharavandhoo, Maalhos, Kudarikil, Kamadhoo, Goidhoo, Fulhadhoo and Fehendhoo etc. have developed guesthouse tourism that allows visitors to experience traditional Maldivian island life and culture.
As a traditional way of life for Maldivians, fishing remains an important part of the atoll's economy, with a strong focus on sustainable practices.
The inhabited Island of Thulahaadhoo has a tradition of skilled artisans who produce lacquer handicrafts, while the capital Eydhafushi was famous for Feyli Viyun while Kihaadhoo island is famous for mat weaving which are often sold to the tourist market.
Registered Atoll Population (as of 31 December 2024)
| Category | Count |
| Male | 15,494 |
|---|---|
| Female | 7,932 |
| Total | 23,426 |
Resident Population Census 2022
| Category | Count |
| Male | 9,162 |
|---|---|
| Female | 4,793 |
| Total | 13,955 |
| Category | Count |
| Total Islands | 118 |
|---|---|
| Inhabited Islands | 13 |
| Resorts | 18 |
| Protected Areas | 14 |
Domestic Airport: Located on Dharavandhoo Island
Secretariat of South Maalhosmadulu Atoll Council