Shops

Shop where the island shops

Lacquer work, woven mats, hand-carved dhoni models and local spices, plus the island shops where you can pick up snacks, sun cream and a SIM card.

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Every inhabited island has small general stores for snacks, water and toiletries, and many have a souvenir shop near the harbour or the bikini beach. Ask your host where to go.

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Made in the Maldives

Six things worth taking home

Lacquer work

Liyelaa jehun

Wooden boxes and vases turned and coated in red, yellow and black lacquer, a craft from Baa Atoll.

Woven mats

Thundu kunaa

Fine reed mats woven by women in Gaafu Dhaalu, with natural dyes and geometric patterns.

Dhoni models

Hand carved

Small wooden copies of the traditional Maldivian boat, made by island boat builders.

Rihaakuru and dried tuna

Food

Thick tuna paste and smoked dried fish (Maldive fish), the base of many island dishes.

Local sweets

Bondi and huni hakuru

Coconut and sugar sweets, often wrapped in leaves, sold at island shops and cafés.

Island-made clothing

Sarongs and prints

Light sarongs and shirts, useful for covering up when you walk through the village.

Good to know

Shopping on a local island

  • Don't buy coral, shells or turtle shell. Taking them out of the country is against the law.
  • Fridays: many shops close for midday prayers, and some close briefly at other prayer times.
  • Bring some cash. Small shops may only take rufiyaa or US dollars.
  • Buy local: ask whether a souvenir was made in the Maldives. Many are imported.

Run a shop?

List your shop or souvenir store free, with opening hours and what you sell. Visitors message you directly.

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