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The Maldives, renowned for its pristine beaches and luxurious resorts, also offers you a chance to have a unique shopping experience. From bustling local markets in Malé to high-end boutiques in resorts, shopping in Maldives caters to diverse tastes and budgets. Here, you can explore traditional handicrafts, vibrant textiles, and exquisite jewellery besides modern fashion and electronics. So, whether you’re hunting for authentic souvenirs, duty-free goods, or local delicacies, the Maldives’ shopping scene blends traditional charm with contemporary offerings, providing a delightful complement to the island nation’s natural beauty.
8 Places For Shopping In Maldives
Here is a list of the best places for shopping in Maldives for all the shopaholics out there.
1. Male Local Market
Photo: Piotr Arnoldes / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Located in the heart of Male, the capital city of the Maldives, the Male Local Market is a bustling hub of activity and a fantastic place to experience authentic Maldivian culture. As you wander through the narrow aisles, you’ll find an array of fresh produce, including exotic fruits and vegetables that are staples in Maldivian cuisine. The market is also famous for its wide variety of fresh fish and seafood, reflecting the island nation’s rich maritime heritage. So, don’t miss the opportunity to purchase some Maldivian curry powders, which make for great souvenirs and allow you to recreate the Maldivian flavours back home. This is, undoubtedly, one of the best shopping places in Maldives.
Location: Dhathuruveringe Market, Haveeree Hingun, Malé 20188, Maldives
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Maldives With Family
2. Fish Market In Male
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Adjacent to the Male Local Market is the famous Fish Market, a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the fishing culture of the Maldives. This open-air market is a hive of activity, especially in the late afternoon when the fishing boats return with their daily catch. Here, you’ll see an impressive variety of freshly caught fish. Visiting the Fish Market is a worthwhile experience. The energy, the smells, and the sights all combine to create an unforgettable sensory experience. For photography enthusiasts, the Fish Market offers excellent opportunities for candid shots that capture the essence of daily life in Male.
Location: Fish Market, 188 Ibrahim Hassan Didi Magu, Malé 20188, Maldives
3. Majeedhee Magu
Photo: Piotr Arnoldes / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Majeedhee Magu is the main street in Male, serving as an open-air shopping district. It is one of the most famous shopping places in Maldives. This bustling thoroughfare is lined up with shops, cafes, and small local markets, making it a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs in the Maldives. As you stroll down Majeedhee Magu, you’ll find a mix of modern shops selling electronics, clothing, and souvenirs in addition to more traditional stores offering local goods. Also, don’t forget to check out the small local markets interspersed along Majeedhee Magu. These often sell freshly produced spices and snacks, giving you a taste of local life.
Location: Majeedhee Magu, Malé 20188 Maldives
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4. Hulhumale Central Market
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Located on the artificial island of Hulhumale, just a short distance from Male, the Hulhumale Central Market offers a more modern and spacious shopping experience. This market features a wide range of products, from freshly produced meats to household goods and clothing. The market also features a section dedicated to local handicrafts and souvenirs. Here, you can find traditional Maldivian items like woven mats, wooden carvings, and coconut shell crafts. These make for great souvenirs during your trip to the Maldives. For local snacks and sweets, the Hulhumale Central Market is a great place to explore.
Location: Hulhumalé Rashu Market, N1 and N2 Terminal bus station, Malé 20188, Maldives
5. Night Market In Male
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The Night Market in Male is a relatively new addition to the city’s shopping scene, but it has quickly become popular among locals and tourists alike. Located near the artificial beach on the eastern side of Male, this market comes alive after sunset, offering a different perspective on Maldivian culture and cuisine. It is primarily focused on food, making it an excellent destination for foodies looking to sample a wide variety of Maldivian dishes. While food is the main attraction, you can also find some souvenir stalls at the Night Market.
Location: Boduthakurufaanu Magu, near Republic Square, Male 20188, Maldives
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Maldives For Family
6. STO People’s Choice
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STO People’s Choice is a supermarket chain operated by the State Trading Organisation (STO) of the Maldives. While it’s not a traditional market, it’s worth mentioning due to its importance in everyday Maldivian life and its accessibility for tourists. The STO People’s Choice supermarkets offer a wide range of products, including local and imported groceries, household items, and personal care products. The supermarkets also often have a section dedicated to local handicrafts and souvenirs, making them a convenient one-stop-shop for tourists. Here, you can find items like woven mats, coconut shell crafts, and packaged local spices and tea.
Location: 6 Orchid Magu, Malé 20188, Maldives
7. Addu City Markets
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If you’re venturing beyond Male to the southern atolls, the markets in Addu City are worth exploring. Addu City, the southernmost city in Maldives, consists of several inhabited islands connected by a causeway, each with its own local market. The markets in Addu City offer a more laid-back experience compared to those in Male. One of the most interesting markets is located in Hithadhoo, the largest island in Addu City. This market offers a variety of freshly produced fish and other local products. Besides that, the Maradhoo-Feydhoo area also has several small local markets to shop for spices and local snacks.
Location: Link Road, Addu City 19060 Maldives
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8. The Marina Crossroads Maldives
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The Marina Crossroads Maldives is a relatively new addition to the Maldivian shopping scene. Located on a man-made island in the Embudhu Lagoon, just a 15-minute boat ride from Male, this lifestyle district offers a unique shopping experience. The Marina features a collection of retail outlets, including souvenir shops, fashion boutiques, and stores selling local handicrafts. It’s designed to provide a high-end shopping experience while still offering authentic Maldivian products. It also hosts a variety of dining options, many of which showcase Maldivian cuisine. Therefore, making it a great place to combine shopping with sampling local flavours.
Location: Embudhu Village 08200, Maldives
Shopping in Maldives can be a diverse and enriching experience, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern luxury. From bustling local markets to exclusive resort boutiques, here you can find unique souvenirs and high-end goods alike. So, whether you are seeking authentic mementos or indulgent treats, the Maldives’ shopping scene adds another layer of enjoyment to this tropical paradise. As you plan your next trip to Maldives, let TripXL shoulder the burden of bookings and the best deals.
Cover Photo: Martin Falbisoner / Wikimedia Commons
