In short
Business name registration in the Maldives means checking that a proposed name is available on the Business Portal and submitting it for approval before the business is registered. DBS Maldives searches the registry, screens out names likely to be rejected, and reserves the strongest option for you.
What is business name registration in the Maldives?
Business name registration in the Maldives is the name search and reservation step on the government Business Portal. A proposed name is checked for availability and then submitted for approval. We reserve the name first, so it is approved and ready when the registration is prepared, whether you are forming a company, a sole proprietorship or a partnership.
Names that conflict with, or closely resemble, existing business names can be rejected. That is the most common reason a new registration stalls at the first hurdle.
Why is a business name rejected?
A name is usually refused because it is already taken or is too similar to one that is. Similarity is broader than most people expect: a different spelling, an added word or a change of order may not be enough to set a name apart.
How we reduce that risk:
- We search the Maldives Business Registry, which lists registered businesses publicly, for exact and near matches.
- We flag names that are likely to be seen as conflicting, before you submit them.
- We help you shortlist alternatives that still fit your brand.
- We submit the reservation through the Business Portal and track the decision.
- Once approved, we carry the name straight into your registration application.
How to reserve a business name
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Brief us on the brand
Tell us the name you want, what the business does, and any alternatives you would be happy with.
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Registry search
We look up the Maldives Business Registry for identical and similar names already in use.
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Shortlist
We give you a frank view of each option and agree a preferred name and back-ups with you.
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Submit for approval
We submit the chosen name through the Business Portal's name reservation service, using the applicant's eFaas login.
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Use the approved name
When the name is approved, we move directly to registering the business under it.
What should I prepare before a name search?
- Your first-choice business name, spelt exactly as you want it
- At least two alternative names
- The type of business you plan to register
- A short description of what the business will do
- eFaas access for the person making the reservation
- Any trading name or logo you already use informally
Common mistakes to avoid
- Printing signs and cards first. Do not spend on branding until the name is approved.
- Submitting a single option. If it is refused, you start again. Prepare alternatives in advance.
- Checking only exact matches. Close resemblance can be enough for a rejection.
- Picking a name that limits you. A name tied to one product or island can feel narrow once the business grows.
Not sure your name will pass? Send it to us and we will check it.
Frequently asked questions
How do I check if a business name is available in the Maldives?
You can look up registered businesses on the Maldives Business Registry, which is part of the government Business Portal. The Portal's name search and reservation service then checks a proposed name for availability before it is submitted for approval.
Can my business name be rejected?
Yes. Names that conflict with or closely resemble existing business names can be rejected. Small changes in spelling or word order may not be enough to make a name distinct. Searching carefully and preparing alternatives makes a rejection much less disruptive.
Should I reserve a name before registering my business?
We recommend it. Reserving the name first means it has been checked and approved before the registration application is prepared, so the application is not held up over the name. We do this for companies, partnerships and sole proprietorships alike.
Should I wait for name approval before ordering signs and branding?
Yes. Until the name is approved, there is a chance it will be refused and you will need another. Ordering signage, packaging or a website domain first risks paying twice. We tell you as soon as the name is approved so you can move ahead with confidence.
Last reviewed 6 October 2026. Requirements change; we confirm the current rules with you before any application.