About Malta and Gozo, Facts & Figures

Malta is an ideal location for multinational businesses to establish efficient international contacts. Located at a strategic crossroad between Europe and Africa, Malta is a meeting point of cultures and languages at the centre of the Mediterranean. As one of the most popular destinations, the Maltese Islands have plenty to offer visitors – whether they are here for a short time or planning to invest long-term for business or pleasure.

“MALTA’S CLIMATE IS STRONGLY INFLUENCED BY THE SEA AND IS TYPICALLY MEDITERRANEAN”

An exciting Mediterranean archipelago, Malta covers a compact area of 316 square kilometres yet offers remarkable diversity and charm. Home to over half a million residents, the islands balance a cosmopolitan atmosphere with deep-rooted tradition. The largest island, Malta (Capital: Valletta) stretches roughly 27 kilometres from north to south and features a landscape of low, terraced hills and sloping fields. Its rugged coastline is deeply indented with natural harbours, scenic bays, and a handful of golden beaches that attract visitors year-round.

The islands’ multilingual environment reflects their international appeal. Alongside Malta’s official languages, Maltese and English, a host of other dialects, such as Italian, French, Danish, Swedish, Russian, and many other tongues, echo the archipelago’s growing global community. With over 300 days of sunshine, a thriving nightlife, and a rich cultural tapestry shaped by centuries of history, Malta offers an irresistible blend of the old and the new.

Gozo, the second-largest island, preserves a more traditional charm, with lush countryside, historic villages, and a slower, more tranquil pace of life that contrasts beautifully with the busier main island. Comino, the smallest and least inhabited, is a natural haven best known for the Blue Lagoon - a pristine bay with crystal-clear waters that draws swimmers and divers from around the world.

Malta Awards and Achievements

• “Malta is the Best Place to Retire” – Yahoo Finance
• “Malta One of Best Places to Live Abroad” – A Place in the Sun – Magazine 2013
• “Malta Wins Destination of the Year Award” – 2012 TTG Awards
• “Malta Voted Best Climate on Earth!” – International Living – Magazine
• "Malta Best LGBT Destination" - Spartacus Travel Awards 2019
• "Valletta - Best City Break-Destination Award" - Connoisseur Circle Hospitality Awards 2019
• "Malta Voted Best European Destination" - No. 1 Readers Choice, Connoisseur Circle Hospitality Awards 2022
• "Most Desirable Island in Europe - Gold Award" - Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2024
• "Best Destination – Mediterranean - Bronze Award" - Travvy Awards 2024
• "World's Best Diving Destination" - Dusseldorf Dive Awards 2025

The Maltese Islands - Quick Facts & Figures

Malta General Information

• Official name: Republic of Malta
  The state is officially known as the Republic of Malta, representing its status as an independent sovereign republic in the Mediterranean.
• Capital City: Valletta
  Valletta is a fortified city celebrated for its rich history, stunning Baroque architecture, and maritime heritage. Founded in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John, it succeeded Mdina as the island’s capital and is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its exceptional cultural and historical significance.
• Area (km2): 316
  The Maltese archipelago covers a land area of approximately 316 square kilometres.
• Total Population: 574,250
  According to the National Statistics Office of Malta (NSO), the resident population of Malta and Gozo at the end of 2024 stood at 574,250.
• Gozo Population
  Gozo (Malta’s sister island) has a population of approximately 41,253, known for its rural charm, historical sites, and slower pace of life compared with mainland Malta.
• Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) and Central European Summer Time (CEST)
  Malta operates on Central European Time (UTC+1) during the winter months, switching to Central European Summer Time (UTC+2) in the summer for daylight saving.
• Dialling Code: +356
  When making an international call to Malta, the country code +356 is used.
• Internet Connectivity
  Malta offers excellent digital infrastructure, with widespread high-speed broadband, 4G, and expanding 5G coverage, with free Wi-Fi available in most public areas.
• Domain TLD: .mt
  Malta's country code top-level domain (ccTLD) is .mt, widely used by local businesses, institutions, and government websites.
• Currency: Euro (€)
  Malta currently uses the Euro (€) as its official currency, having adopted it in 2008, replacing the Maltese lira - also called the Maltese pound - which had been in circulation since 1825.
• Electricity Supply: 230V/50Hz, mainly natural gas with some solar
  In Malta, electricity uses 230 volts and 50 Hz, with UK-style Type G three-pin plugs. Most of the power comes from natural gas, while a small but increasing share comes from solar energy.
• Driving
  Travel is generally easy: Malta has a good system of buses and ferry connections between Malta's main island, Gozo and Comino. The roads are well-maintained, though traffic can be heavy in urban zones. Car rentals, taxis, and ride-sharing are also widely available.
• Going to Gozo
  Gozo, Malta’s smaller sister island, is accessible by ferry between Ċirkewwa and Mġarr, carrying both passengers and vehicles. 

Malta Government and Politics

• Ruling Party: Labour Party
  The Labour Party, formerly known as the Malta Labour Party, is one of the two major political parties in Malta, along with the Nationalist Party. The Labour Party currently governs Malta, holding a majority in Parliament and overseeing policy initiatives in social welfare, economic development, and infrastructure.
• Head of state: Myriam Spiteri Debono
  Her Excellency Myriam Spiteri Debono is Malta’s eleventh President. A qualified notary with a long-standing career in public service, she was unanimously endorsed by the Maltese Parliament through a resolution passed on 27 March 2024 before officially assuming office.
• Head of government & Prime Minister: Dr. Robert Abela
  Dr Robert Abela serves as Prime Minister of Malta, heading the Labour Party, which currently forms the government.
• Date of joining EU: 01 May 2004
  Malta became a full member of the European Union on 1 May 2004, integrating into the European single market.

Malta Economy

• GDP (billions €): 22.47 billion
  Malta’s GDP amounted to €22.47 billion in 2024, as reported by the Malta NSO (National Statistics Office).
• GDP per capita in PPS: €40,619
  Malta had a GDP per capita of EUR 41,720 in 2024, 109% higher than the EU average.
• Real growth rate of GDP: 6% year on year for 2024
  According to the European Union, Malta's economy experienced a real GDP growth rate of 5.9% year on year in 2024.
• National debt as % of GDP: 47.4% as of 2024
  Trading Economics stated that Malta recorded a Government Debt to GDP of 47.40% of the country's Gross Domestic Product in 2024.
• Public deficit/surplus as % of GDP: -3.7% as of 2024
  Malta’s government deficit stood at 3.7% of GDP in 2024 and is forecast to fall below 3.0% by 2026, while the debt ratio is expected to stay under 48%, according to the European Commission.
• Inflation: 2.4% year on year 2024
  According to the Central Bank of Malta, the country's annual inflation rate in 2024 was 2.4%.
• People in Gainful Employment: 65.8% of the population aged 15 and over.
  The NSO (National Statistics Office) of Malta reports that approximately 327,643 people were engaged in gainful employment in the first quarter of 2025, with a high participation rate in the workforce.
• Unemployment rate: 2.7% for 2024
  Statista reported that in 2024, the unemployment rate in Malta was 2.7%.
• Main economic sectors: Tourism, financial services, ICT, and manufacturing
  Malta's economy is dominated by services, including tourism, financial services, ICT, and maritime activities. Manufacturing, particularly pharmaceuticals and electronics, also contributes significantly to GDP.
• VAT Rates
  Malta applies a standard VAT rate of 18%, with reduced rates for certain goods and services, including accommodation and some food items.

Malta Society and Culture

• Religious Landscape
  Roman Catholicism is the predominant religion in Malta, with a strong influence on cultural traditions, holidays, and national identity. However, freedom of religion is constitutionally guaranteed.
• National Holidays
  Malta has five national holidays: Freedom Day (31 March), Sette Giugno (June 7),  Feast of Our Lady of Victories (September 8), Independence Day (21 September), and Republic Day (13 December), reflecting key moments in its history.
• Public Holidays
  Malta observes 14 public holidays each year, comprising nine public holidays and five national holidays. These days mark religious, historical, and national occasions, and employees receive paid time off for each.
• Annual Leave Entitlement
  According to the Economy of Malta, employees in Malta are entitled to a minimum of 24 days of paid annual leave per year, in addition to public holidays, ensuring work-life balance and rest periods.
• Films Shot in Malta and Gozo
  Malta and Gozo have emerged as sought-after filming destinations, attracting major international productions thanks to striking historical architecture and competitive film incentives. Over the years, the islands have provided backdrops for blockbuster films and series such as Gladiator, Troy, Game of Thrones, and The Count of Monte Cristo, to name a few. Today, Malta’s film industry continues to expand, supported by modern studios and professional local crews.
• Village Feast
  Village feasts, known locally as Festi, are at the heart of Maltese culture and community life. Each town and village honours its patron saint with week-long celebrations featuring colourful street decorations, lively band marches, traditional food stalls, church processions, and dazzling fireworks displays.
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Malta and Gozo
  Malta and Gozo boast several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase the islands’ rich history. Valletta, the fortified capital, impresses with its Baroque architecture, while the prehistoric temples, Ħaġar Qim, Mnajdra, and Ġgantija rank among the world’s oldest and the underground Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum offers a unique glimpse into Malta’s ancient past.
• Healthcare
  Malta provides universal healthcare through public hospitals and clinics, supported by private medical services. EU citizens benefit from reciprocal agreements, and medical care is generally high-quality, though some waiting times may occur.
• Education
  Education in Malta is compulsory up to a certain age, with public and private schools offering instruction in both Maltese and English. Tertiary education includes the University of Malta and other colleges, attracting many international students. The system aligns with European Union standards.