20 Best Markets in Maldives: A Shopping Adventure

The Maldives is more than just stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. This tropical paradise also boasts a vibrant shopping scene, with markets offering everything from fresh local produce to unique handicrafts and luxury goods.

Whether you’re seeking the best bargains in Maldives markets or looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, these 20 top shopping markets in Maldives have something for everyone.

20 Best Markets in Maldives

From bustling local bazaars to upscale shopping centers, the Maldives offers a diverse array of markets catering to every taste and budget. Here are the 20 best markets to explore during your Maldivian getaway.

1. Malé Local Market

This lively market is the heart of Malé, offering a colorful display of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Watch friendly vendors expertly slice open coconuts and sample exotic fruits like mangosteen and rambutan.

• What to Buy: Stock up on tropical fruits, sample traditional Maldivian snacks like gulha (savory fish balls) and rihaakuru (fish paste), and pick up handwoven baskets and mats.

• How to Reach: The market is centrally located in Malé, just a short walk from the main ferry terminal and bus stops.

• Timings: Open daily from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.

2. Majeedhee Magu

Majeedhee Magu is Malé’s main shopping street, lined with stores selling everything from clothing and electronics to souvenirs and local handicrafts. Don’t miss the chance to haggle for the best prices.

• What to Buy: Browse the latest fashion trends, pick up a new smartphone or camera, and shop for unique gifts like lacquerware boxes and coconut shell jewelry.

• How to Reach: Majeedhee Magu runs through the heart of Malé and is easily accessible on foot or by taxi.

• Timings: Most shops are open from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm daily.

3. Chaandhanee Magu

Known as the “Singapore Bazaar,” Chaandhanee Magu is a bustling street market specializing in imported goods from Singapore. Find everything from electronics and household items to clothing and cosmetics.

• What to Buy: Stock up on affordable electronics, browse the latest fashion trends from Singapore, and pick up unique souvenirs like keychains and fridge magnets.

• How to Reach: Chaandhanee Magu is located in the Henveiru district of Malé, just a short walk from the main bus terminal.

• Timings: The market is open daily from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm.

4. STO Trade Centre

The STO Trade Centre is the largest department store in the Maldives, offering a wide range of products across multiple floors. Find everything from groceries and household goods to clothing and electronics.

• What to Buy: Shop for high-quality electronics, browse the extensive clothing and footwear selection, and stock up on imported groceries and household essentials.

• How to Reach: The STO Trade Centre is located on Orchid Magu in Malé, easily accessible by taxi or on foot.

• Timings: Open daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm.

5. Centro Mall

Centro Mall is a modern shopping complex in Hulhumalé, offering a mix of local and international brands. Enjoy air-conditioned comfort as you browse the many shops and grab a bite at the food court.

• What to Buy: Find the latest fashion trends, shop for electronics and gadgets, and indulge in some retail therapy at the many clothing and accessory stores.

• How to Reach: Centro Mall is located in Hulhumalé, just a short bus or taxi ride from Malé.

• Timings: Open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

6. Le Cute

Le Cute is a popular beauty store in Malé, offering a wide selection of skincare, makeup, and fragrance products. Get expert advice from the friendly staff and sample the latest products.

• What to Buy: Stock up on premium skincare brands, try out new makeup looks, and find your signature scent from the extensive fragrance collection.

• How to Reach: Le Cute is located on Majeedhee Magu in Malé, easily accessible on foot or by taxi.

• Timings: Open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

7. Island Bazaar

Island Bazaar is a charming souvenir shop in Malé, offering a curated selection of local handicrafts and gifts. Browse the colorful displays and find the perfect memento of your Maldivian adventure.

• What to Buy: Shop for handwoven textiles, coconut shell crafts, lacquerware, and unique jewelry pieces made from local materials like seashells and coral.

• How to Reach: Island Bazaar is located on Fareedhee Magu in Malé, just a short walk from the main ferry terminal.

• Timings: Open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

8. Oevaali Art Shop

Oevaali Art Shop is a must-visit for art lovers, showcasing the works of local Maldivian artists. Browse the gallery and find a unique piece to take home as a special souvenir.

• What to Buy: Shop for original paintings, prints, and sculptures depicting the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of the Maldives.

• How to Reach: Oevaali Art Shop is located in the Henveiru district of Malé, easily accessible by taxi or on foot.

• Timings: Open Sunday to Thursday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

9. Angolo Souvenir Shop

Angolo Souvenir Shop is a treasure trove of unique gifts and mementos, offering a wide selection of locally made crafts and souvenirs. Chat with the friendly owner and learn about the stories behind each piece.

• What to Buy: Shop for handcrafted wooden dhonis (traditional Maldivian boats), intricately carved coconut shell ornaments, and colorful woven baskets and mats.

• How to Reach: Angolo Souvenir Shop is located in the Maafannu district of Malé, just a short walk from the main ferry terminal.

• Timings: Open daily from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

10. Male International Airport Duty-Free

The Male International Airport Duty-Free is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of luxury goods at tax-free prices. Browse the many boutiques and find the perfect last-minute gift or treat for yourself.

• What to Buy: Shop for premium skincare and cosmetics brands, pick up a new fragrance, and browse the selection of high-end watches and jewelry.

• How to Reach: The duty-free shops are located in the departures area of Male International Airport, accessible to passengers with a valid boarding pass.

• Timings: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

11. Hulhumalé Local Market

The Hulhumalé Local Market is a bustling hub of activity, offering a wide selection of fresh produce, local delicacies, and handcrafted goods. Mingle with the friendly locals and sample some of the exotic fruits and snacks on offer.

• What to Buy: Stock up on tropical fruits like mangoes and papayas, try traditional Maldivian dishes like mas huni (shredded smoked tuna with grated coconut and onions), and shop for locally made handicrafts.

• How to Reach: The market is located in the heart of Hulhumalé, easily accessible by bus or taxi from Malé.

• Timings: Open daily from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm.

12. Thulusdhoo Local Market

The Thulusdhoo Local Market is a great place to experience the authentic flavors and crafts of the Maldives. Browse the stalls and chat with the friendly vendors, learning about their traditional ways of life.

• What to Buy: Shop for fresh seafood, sample local delicacies like rihaakuru (fish paste) and kulhi boakiba (fish cakes), and pick up handwoven mats and baskets.

• How to Reach: Thulusdhoo Island is located in the North Malé Atoll, accessible by ferry or speedboat from Malé.

• Timings: Open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

13. Maafushi Local Market

The Maafushi Local Market is a vibrant spot to immerse yourself in the local culture and sample some of the freshest produce and seafood in the Maldives. Watch as the skilled fishermen bring in their daily catch and haggle for the best prices.

• What to Buy: Stock up on fresh tuna, snapper, and other local fish, sample traditional Maldivian snacks like gulha (savory fish balls), and shop for handcrafted souvenirs.

• How to Reach: Maafushi Island is located in the South Malé Atoll, accessible by ferry or speedboat from Malé.

• Timings: Open daily from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.

14. Dhigurah Local Market

The Dhigurah Local Market is a small but charming spot to experience the laid-back island life and sample some of the freshest produce and seafood in the Maldives. Chat with the friendly locals and learn about their traditional fishing techniques.

• What to Buy: Shop for fresh tuna, grouper, and other local fish, sample traditional Maldivian dishes like garudhiya (fish soup), and pick up handwoven baskets and mats.

• How to Reach: Dhigurah Island is located in the South Ari Atoll, accessible by domestic flight and speedboat from Malé.

• Timings: Open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

15. Guraidhoo Local Market

The Guraidhoo Local Market is a lively spot to experience the authentic flavors and crafts of the Maldives. Browse the stalls and watch as the skilled craftsmen create intricate lacquerware and weave beautiful textiles.

• What to Buy: Shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, sample local delicacies like bondi (coconut candy) and huni hakuru (coconut paste), and pick up handcrafted lacquerware boxes and woven textiles.

• How to Reach: Guraidhoo Island is located in the South Malé Atoll, accessible by ferry or speedboat from Malé.

• Timings: Open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

16. Kuredu Local Market

The Kuredu Local Market is a great place to experience the laid-back island life and sample some of the freshest produce and seafood in the Maldives. Chat with the friendly locals and learn about their traditional ways of life.

• What to Buy: Stock up on fresh tuna, snapper, and other local fish, sample traditional Maldivian snacks like kulhi boakiba (fish cakes), and shop for handcrafted wooden souvenirs.

• How to Reach: Kuredu Island is located in the Lhaviyani Atoll, accessible by seaplane or domestic flight from Malé.

• Timings: Open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

17. Villingili Local Market

The Villingili Local Market is a charming spot to experience the authentic flavors and crafts of the Maldives. Browse the stalls and watch as the skilled craftsmen create intricate jewelry and carve beautiful wooden souvenirs.

• What to Buy: Shop for fresh fruits and vegetables, sample local delicacies like theluli mas (spicy fish curry) and boshi mashuni (banana flower salad), and pick up handcrafted jewelry and wooden sculptures.

• How to Reach: Villingili Island is located in the Addu Atoll, accessible by domestic flight from Malé.

• Timings: Open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

18. Fuvahmulah Local Market

The Fuvahmulah Local Market is a vibrant spot to immerse yourself in the local culture and sample some of the freshest produce and seafood in the Maldives. Watch as the skilled fishermen bring in their daily catch and haggle for the best prices.

• What to Buy: Stock up on fresh tuna, grouper, and other local fish, sample traditional Maldivian dishes like rihaakuru (fish paste) and mas huni (shredded smoked tuna with coconut), and shop for handwoven textiles and baskets.

• How to Reach: Fuvahmulah Island is located in the Gnaviyani Atoll, accessible by domestic flight from Malé.

• Timings: Open daily from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.

19. Addu City Local Market

The Addu City Local Market is a great place to experience the laid-back island life and sample some of the freshest produce and seafood in the Maldives. Chat with the friendly locals and learn about their traditional fishing techniques.

• What to Buy: Shop for fresh tuna, snapper, and other local fish, sample traditional Maldivian snacks like gulha (savory fish balls), and pick up handcrafted wooden dhonis (traditional boats) and woven mats.

• How to Reach: Addu City is located in the Addu Atoll, accessible by domestic flight from Malé.

• Timings: Open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.

20. Redwave Mega Mall

Redwave Mega Mall is a modern shopping complex in Hulhumalé, offering a wide range of international and local brands. Enjoy air-conditioned comfort as you browse the many shops and grab a bite at the food court.

• What to Buy: Find the latest fashion apparel, local handicrafts, electronics, and household items.

• How to Reach: The mall is just a 5-minute walk from the Hulhumalé Ferry Terminal.

• Timings: Daily from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

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FAQs

What are the best things to buy from markets in Maldives?

Handicraft markets in Maldives are treasure troves for unique souvenirs. Look out for intricate lacquerware, hand-woven mats, coconut shell crafts, and traditional Maldivian dresses. Local food markets are also great spots to stock up on fresh tropical fruits, aromatic spices, and authentic Maldivian snacks.

What is the best time to shop in Maldives?

Plan your market hopping during the dry season from November to April for optimal weather conditions. Early mornings are ideal to avoid the midday heat and catch the markets at their liveliest. Some night markets in Maldives also offer a cooler and more laid-back shopping experience.

Is it worth shopping in Maldives?

Absolutely! Shopping at local markets in Maldives not only lets you find one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts but also directly supports local artisans and small businesses. It’s a meaningful way to engage with the Maldivian culture and contribute to the local economy.

Are Maldives markets safe?

Yes, markets in Maldives are generally safe for tourists. As with any crowded place, be mindful of your belongings and keep an eye on your valuables. Bargaining is common in traditional markets, so don’t be afraid to politely negotiate prices while maintaining a friendly demeanor.

What stores are cheaper in Maldives?

For best bargains in Maldives markets, head to the local bazaars and street shopping areas. You’ll often find better deals on souvenirs, clothing, and handicrafts compared to resort boutiques or high-end shops. Don’t forget to compare prices across different stalls before making a purchase.

Is shopping in Maldives expensive?

The cost of shopping in Maldives depends on where you go. Luxury shopping spots, such as upscale resort boutiques, tend to have higher price tags. However, local markets and street shopping offer more affordable options without compromising on quality or authenticity.

How much gold can I carry from Maldives to India?

According to current customs regulations, Indian residents can bring gold jewelry worth up to Rs. 50,000 for male passengers and Rs. 1,00,000 for female passengers, duty-free. For any additional gold purchases, you’ll need to declare them and pay the applicable customs duty.

What time are markets open in Maldives?

Most markets in Maldives are open from early morning (around 8:00 AM) until late evening (10:00 PM or 11:00 PM). However, exact timings may vary depending on the specific market. It’s best to check with locals or your hotel concierge for the most up-to-date information.