Whatever island you choose to visit in the Maldives, you will find a dense growth of Dhivehi Ruh, or coconut palm. It is the national tree of the country and throughout history has played an important role in its economy.

All the benefits that coconut palms have provided for the Maldivian people throughout history have earned the tree a prominent position at the top of the National Emblem of the country. It towers over a crescent and a star (representations of the Islamic faith of the State), two criss-crossed National Flags (representation of the authority of the State) and the Title of the State written in Dhivehi -"Ad-Dawlat Al-Mahaldheebiyya," which translates into "The State of the Maldives".

Lately, the productivity of the coconut tree has suffered due to infestation from the rhinoceros beetle, snails and other pests that have been attacking the trees across the country. So the government has set up a priority program for the rehabilitation of the coconut trees throughout the entire archipelago. Research on biological control of the elements that are causing damage to the trees is being conducted, and so far the results look promising.

Children are taught from a young age how to climb the coconut trees, and toy sailboats were historically made from empty coconut half shells, with leaves as their sails. Maldivian coir rope, made from the fibers of coconut husks, was highly prized when sailing ships ruled the trading routes. Merchants from Arabia, Europe and other countries considered it to be the best in the world for use on their sailing vessels. The rope became so popular that it eventually grew into a major industry in the Maldives and was even exported to other countries. It is still produced on the islands using the same traditional methods, but is generally just for local consumption today. Another big trade item were woven cadjan mats made from palm leaves. Like the coir rope, it too is still produced for local use on the islands.