Joanna James
Maldives is famous for its turquoise blue seas and white sandy shores, but it’s less popular as a shopping hub. However, if you’re visiting this beautiful South Asian nation, why not pick up a few souvenirs of your trip? The best shopping areas are located in the capital, Male. Here, you’ll find a range of stores from high-end boutiques to small street vendors.
Located in the north of Male, the Male Market is a large and bustling bazaar. Facing the waterfront, it’s popular with both locals and foreigners. You’ll find everything from traditional handicrafts, fresh local produce, dry fruits, pickles and gift items. Check out the souvenir shops selling Maldivian handicrafts made of seashells, lacquer and wooden crafts such as dhonis (traditional fishing vessels), and products made of coconut leaves.
Majeedhee Magu is in the centre of Male, right on the main road. It is extensive, covering the whole length of the island from east to west. You’ll find many different stores here that cater to every type of shopper. From international brands to local products, it offers a wide variety of items. While the market is known mainly for its clothing stores, you can also pick up cosmetics, accessories, watches, shoes and electronics. Bargaining is accepted as well! Also, try the restaurants in the vicinity which sell delicious Maldivian food.
This is a high-class, European-style boutique that sells traditional products made by local artisans along with lifestyle items. You can find beautiful handmade bags, fridge magnets, clothing, jewellery, cushions and much more. The materials are eco-friendly and the designs showcase the unique Maldivian culture and island motifs - making it one of the best places for shopping if you want to pick up creative souvenirs to take back home.
This famous street market is also known as Singapore Bazaar by the locals due to imported products from Singapore that are sold here. Located in the North Male Atoll, it spans the island from north to south and can be easily accessed from Maldives all inclusive resorts and hotels such as OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO. This is another shopping area where you can find traditional handicrafts as well as imported items. Some of the most popular products include Thundu Kunaa mats (with geometric designs, woven using local fibre), dhonis, clothing, scarves and sarongs made by Maldivian artisans.
For high-end brands, head to LeCute, a beauty retail store situated in Malé. Here, you’ll find diverse products from top global brands such as MAC and Maybelline. The luxury retail store is full of shops selling makeup – including eyeliners, mascaras, and lipsticks. Also available are perfumes for both men and women as well as skincare and body care products like moisturisers, lotions, and soaps.
Redwave is a chain of supermarkets and malls located around Male. At the Mega mall in Hulhumale, you’ll find a wide selection of goods including furniture, household items, electronics, groceries and clothing. Shopping here is convenient, and it's a great way to save money on travel as everything is in one place. The prices are very reasonable as well!
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
