No, the Indian rupee must be converted into Maldivian Rufiyaa before you can use it to pay at the local shops and smaller cafes. However, you can swipe your card which is registered at an Indian bank when paying for services at hotels, restaurants, and high-end shopping centres. You only need the Maldivian Rufiyaa if you purchase items at local stores that do not facilitate swiping of cards or online payments.