Maldives ranked as world's second loudest country
22 އޯގަސްޓު 2026 | ހޮނިހިރު 11:08The Maldives has been ranked as the world's second-noisiest country in the "Noise-Free Nations Index" compiled by Go2Africa, earning a score of 8.48 due to extreme congestion in the Greater Male' area. While Singapore topped the list as the loudest nation, Bhutan was named the world's quietest country, recognized for its tranquil natural environment and serenity.
Motorcycles are seen traveling along the streets of Malé. | Alamy
Singapore and the Maldives have been ranked among the world's noisiest countries, according to a study conducted by "Go2Africa" that measured noise levels across various nations.
According to the "Noise-Free Nations Index," the world's five loudest countries received low "Quiet Scores" ranging from 6.78 to 18.13 out of a possible 100. Under this indexing system, a lower score indicates a noisier nation, while a higher score represents a quieter and more tranquil environment.
According to the study, Singapore topped the list as the world's noisiest country with a score of 6.78, while the Maldives followed in second place with a score of 8.48.
Compiled by the travel agency "Go2Africa," this index ranks countries based on various factors related to noise pollution. The criteria used for the ranking include population density, tourist arrival rates, the availability of open spaces and parks, and the extent of protected areas. Additionally, the study considers vehicle ownership rates and overall traffic conditions.
The index assigns each country a score out of 100, with higher scores identifying the most peaceful and tranquil destinations.
According to the report, Singapore tops the list due to its limited land area and the scarcity of open spaces and quiet neighborhoods. With open spaces accounting for only 30 percent of the country's total landmass, finding a tranquil environment remains a significant challenge. Furthermore, the country's highly developed transportation network, high density of vehicles, heavy airport traffic, and frequent train services are cited as primary contributors to the nation's high noise levels.
The Maldives received a score of 8.48, placing it in an unexpectedly low rank primarily due to the extreme overpopulation of the capital, Malé. While the country's remote islands remain tranquil, the congestion in Malé has negatively impacted the overall national ranking.
Barbados ranked third among the five loudest countries with a score of 10.12, followed by Qatar in fourth place with a score of 15.45. Lebanon rounded out the top five, securing the fifth position with a score of 18.13.
Asian nations dominate the top rankings of the world's quietest countries.
Bhutan has secured the title of the world's quietest country, achieving a top score of 89.44. The nation earned this distinction due to its pristine natural environment, characterized by 39,000 square kilometers of vast landscapes featuring lush forested mountains and valleys.
Furthermore, Bhutan regulates tourist arrivals by levying a "Sustainable Development Fee." The report highlights that this initiative facilitates environmental conservation efforts and provides essential support to the country's citizens.
"The report states that Bhutan achieved a high ranking due to its vast expanses of forests, mountains, and farmland, along with sparsely populated highlands and a significant number of protected areas."
Namibia ranks second on the list with a score of 86.69. With only 3.83 residents and 0.67 tourists per square kilometer, it stands as one of the least densely populated countries in terms of both local inhabitants and visitors. Additionally, the country is home to the Namib Desert, one of the oldest deserts in the world.
According to the "Noise-Free Nations Index," Estonia has been ranked as the quietest country in Europe. However, on a global scale, Estonia occupies the 34th position.
