Maldives may not be a shopping-heaven but it surely is a great place to buy mementos that will remind you of your beautiful Maldivian trip. So while you’re not lying on the beach and soaking up the sun, head to the best places for shopping in Maldives. From local street markets, high-end boutiques, to small-scale souvenir stores and shops, these places that will certainly satisfy your shopping needs and let you experience the culture of this serene island. Look at all the fabulous places for shopping and the things you can buy for a delightful experience of Maldives shopping. If you are a shopaholic who just cannot resist swiping his or her card, then you need not worry on your holiday. You can enjoy an exceptional experience of shopping in Maldives with so many indigenous things to buy.
12 Best Places For Shopping In Maldives
There are many good places to shop in Maldives, especially Mahe, the capital of Maldives. The products that you can buy from the markets in Maldives include craft products, handmade t-shirts, and jewelry. Find all answers on where to shop and what to buy in Maldives right in this list.
- Male Local Market – The Vibrant Local Flavour Of Maldives
- Majeedhee Magu – One-Stop Shopping Destination
- Le Cute – A Fancy Duty-Free Beauty Shop
- STO Trade Centre – A Bustling Shopping Hub
- Island Bazaar – An Elegant European Style Boutique
- Centro Mall – Full Of Glamorous Brands
- Chaandhanee Magu – The Best Of Local And Imported Goods
- Nala Boutique – A Fashion Store In Maldives
- Angolo Souvenir Shop – Artsy Souvenirs
- Oevaali Art Shop – For Art Lovers
- Male Interntaional Airport – For Last-Minute Shopping
- Resort Shop – When Stranded On An Island
1. Male Local Market – The Vibrant Local Flavour Of Maldives
Shopping in Maldives becomes exciting as soon as you enter Male Local Market. This huge market is one of the most popular street markets in Maldives located on the north waterfront. A favourite of locals, this bazaar tempts foreigners as well with numerous stalls selling local handicrafts, mementos, and gift items. Kiosks selling local snacks are the highlights of these market.
When to visit: 8:00 am – 11:00 pm
Address: Male’ Higun, Mal-, Maldives
Things to-buy from Male Local Market: Packaged sweetmeat, bottled local pickles, souvenirs like a miniature of boats, palm sleepers, home decor made of seashells, and fresh coconut milk.
Must Read: Top 18 Los Angeles Shopping Destinations
Maldives Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle
2. Majeedhee Magu – One-Stop Shopping Destination
Situated in the heart of the city, Majedhee Magu is a sprawling street market in the Maldives. From garments, accessories to electronic goods, everything is readily available. Do not settle for a price for anything, bargaining is important while shopping in Maldives. There are some amazing dining options like Caf- Asiana where you can have delicious Maldivian cuisine.
When to visit: 9:00 am – 11:00 pm
Address: Majedhee Magu Road, Male, Maldives
Things to-buy from Majedhee Magu: Local cosmetics, local jewelry, dried fish chips, and canned smoked fish.
Suggested Read: Maldives Honeymoon
3. Le Cute – A Fancy Duty-Free Beauty Shop
If you are fond of beauty products, especially perfumes, do visit Le Cute, which is a renowned retail beauty shop in Maldives. This is a swanky store dealing with cosmetics, toiletries, health care products and herbal products that are some of the best things to shop in Maldives.
When to visit: 9:30 am – 11:00 pm and 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm & 8 Pm-11:00 pm on Fridays
Address: Majedhee Magu Road, Male, Maldives
Things to-buy from Le Cute: Perfumes are some of the best things to buy in the Maldives, especially in Le Cute.
Suggested Read: 50 Pristine Places To Visit In Maldives For An Amazing Vacay
4. STO Trade Centre – A Bustling Shopping Hub
STO Trade Centre gives an apposite Maldivian shopping experience. The first level has the household section while the second and the third levels have souvenir counters. Visited by numerous locals and tourists every day, STO Trade Centre is a bustling superstore and surely among the best places for shopping in Maldives.
When to visit: 8:30 am – 10:00 pm
Address: Orchid Magu, Male, Maldives
Things to buy from STO Trade Centre: Local mementos, handicrafts, and electronic gadgets
Suggested Read: 5 Underwater Restaurants In Maldives For An Out Of The World Experience
5. Island Bazaar – An Elegant European Style Boutique
The shopping experience at Island Bazaar will always be unique as this classy and posh boutique not only sells stylish lifestyle products but also promotes the intricate handicrafts of local artisans. Be it a cushion, a shoulder bag, or a handmade fridge magnet, the designs are beautiful and inimitable. This is one of the best places to go for shopping in Maldives if you wish to gift something unique and elegant to your near and dear ones.
When to visit: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm and 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm on Fridays
Address: M.Karishma. Level 1, Fareedhee Magu, Male’, Maldives
Things to-buy from Island Bazaar: Elhabe – handmade jewelry, scarves, macram- works and handmade dishes
6. Centro Mall – Full Of Glamorous Brands
If luxury brands, happening dining options, and game zones is what youre looking for, then head to Centro Mall in Hulhumale. Hosting more than 30 brand outlets and flagship stores, classy salons, spa and world-class dining outlets like Manhattan Fish Market, it is unquestionably the classiest place luxury shopping in Maldives.
When to visit: 7:00 am – 12:00 Midnight
Address: Hulhumale, Maldives
Things to-buy from Centro Mall: Garments and home appliances
Suggested Read: Nightlife In Maldives: Top 15 Places To Enjoy The Life On The Island At Night
7. Chaandhanee Magu – The Best Of Local And Imported Goods
One of the popular Maldives shopping places includes Chaandhanee Magu. This is the place where you will find amazing collections of local handiworks as well as foreign goods. As most of the imported goods are bought from Singapore, locals often refer Chaandhanee Magu as Singapore Bazaar.
When to visit: 9:00 am – 11:00 pm
Address: North Male Atoll, Maldives
Things to buy from Chaandhanee Magu: Thudu Kona – a mat with geometric designs, woven with local fiber and dhonis- wooden miniature boats.
Suggested Read: Great News: India And Maldives Announce An Air Travel Bubble
8. Nala Boutique – A Fashion Store In Maldives
The collection of elegant and expensive dresses and accessories will surely fascinate you at Nala Boutique. Located inside the Kurumba Maldives Resort, this is one of the popular gift and clothing shops in Maldives. From beach toys, kids dress, to women apparels, the shop has every fashion item you need.
When to visit: 8:30 am – 10:00 pm
Address: Kurumba Maldives, Vihamanafushi, North Male Atoll Maldives
Things to-buy from Nala Boutique: Coconut oil, stylish beachwear, and trinkets of Maldivian design
Suggested Read: Maldives Vs Seychelles For Honeymoon: Where Would You Like To Go
9. Angolo Souvenir Shop – Artsy Souvenirs
Image Source
While there are plenty of souvenir shopping places in Maldives, the Angolo Souvenir Shop is considered to be the best of them. Located in Maafushi Island off the coast of Mahe, this little shop has some really quirky and artsy stuff reflecting the culture of Maldives and the people running the store are very sweet and polite. They also let you try their banana coconut souvenir if you buy souvenirs from this shop. Buying things like quirky keychains, bags, shirts, refrigerator magnets, and tea available here at reasonable rates is among the best things to do in Maafushi, Maldives.
When to visit: 10 AM – 9 PM
Address: Maafushi, South Male Atoll, Valu Magu, H 29548, Maldives
Things to buy: Keychains, bags, shirts, refrigerator magnets, tea
Suggested Read: Maldives Or Bora Bora For Honeymoon
10. Oevaali Art Shop – For Art Lovers
Image Source
The Oevaali Art Shop was founded by sisters Raniya and Raya Mansoor in 2015 and is dedicated to making people familiar with the culture and heritage of Maldives through art and design. The art and souvenir shop features a range of paintings, sculptures, and a lot more Maldives souvenirs. The Oevaali Art Shop is considered to be a premier brand for local lifestyle and art and the products are guaranteed to be 100% Maldivian. Though a little on the expensive side owing to the history, popularity, and quality, the art and craft that you buy from this place will be worth every penny and will make wonderful gift items for friends and family.
When to visit: 10 AM – 6 PM
Address: H. Gaathu Giri, Bodufungandu Magu, Male 20008
Things to buy: Paintings, items made out of shells and coconuts
Suggested Read: Maldives In August: A Guide That’ll Help You Plan Your Trip
11. Male International Airport – For Last-Minute Shopping
Begin your shopping spree as soon as you clear the customs and immigration at the airport. Head to the duty free section of Male International Airport where you will find all kinds of stores, you name it. It is one of the most amazing shopping places in Maldives. In case you have forgotten to buy something for your friends or family, then you can do your last-minute shopping from the airport. That’s what the most travelers do.
When to visit: 24×7
Address: Airport Main Rd, 22000, Maldives
Things to buy: Thundu Kunaa, Lacquer products, Dhonis, Maldivian Sarongs, Coconut items, traditional jewelry
Suggested Read: Maldives Vs Bahamas: Which Island Nation Is Best Suited For You?
12. Resort Shop – When Stranded On An Island
If you are staying at a resort in Maldives, then your resort will have a retail store from where you can buy goodies. These places can be a bit exorbitant. But hey, if you have got the money, then who is stopping you? These resort shops come in handy when you are staying on a stranded island and have no shopping malls in Maldives around you. If something worthy catches your eye, then don’t hesitate from buying it.
When to visit: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Address: Maldives
Things to buy: Thundu Kunaa, Lacquer products, Dhonis, Maldivian Sarongs, Coconut items, traditional jewelry, and more
Suggested Read: Maldives Surfing: A Handy Guide To Enjoy This Fascinating Activity
Planning your holiday in Maldives but confused about what to do? These Maldives travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
10 Best Things To Buy In Maldives In 2023
Maldives is one of the popular tourist destinations with many old and new places opening here to cater to people coming for shopping in Maldives. Wondering what to buy in Maldives? Here are some of the best things to buy from Maldives and top stores in Maldives from where you can buy these items.
- Thundu Kunaa
- Lacquer Products
- Dhonis
- Maldivian Sarongs
- Coconut Items
- Traditional Jewelry
- Organic Cosmetics
- Packaged Fish Products
- Fridge Magnets
- Wicker Mats
1. Thundu Kunaa
Image Source
For those who don’t know, Thundu Kunaa are traditional Maldivian mats that are made out of natural fibres before they are handwoven by the Islander women to give you the finished product. You will find them in various shapes and geometric prints, which is why they are considered to be the most artistic and unusual things to buy in Maldives. You can also buy the ones with golden laces that were used by royalty in olden times. While they were used as sleeping mats and praying mats by Maldivian locals in the past, for you they’ll make excellent home decor items.
Where to buy: Chaandhanee Magu
Starting price: $10
Suggested Read: Planning A Cruise To Maldives And Don’t Know Where To Start? Look No Further!
2. Lacquer Products
Image Source
Lacquer work is another major form of traditional Maldivian handicrafts and one of the things to buy from Maldives if you wish to take a piece of its heritage back home with you. You can buy a multitude of lacquer items like vases, boxes, plates, baskets, toys, and even pens, all of which are carved to perfection and made to stand out from each other. Brightly colored with different durable paints colors of red, yellow, and black that is specially derived from the juice of a certain Maldivian tree, these products are a major attraction in the local markets here and can’t be missed. If your kids get bored from the shopping experiene, then you can take them to Sultan Park in Maldives for some leisure.
Where to buy: Chaandhanee Magu
Starting price: $10
Suggested Read: Island Hopping In Maldives
3. Dhonis
Image Source
The traditional boats or dhonis also make up for some of the most extraordinary things to buy in Maldives, and no we’re not talking about the big version that you use to sail here. You can find plenty of adorable and detailed miniatures in many souvenir and art shops across Maldives that you can take home as a remembrance of this country. Made out of wood with sails, these traditional fishing boats are now in high demand by tourists who visit Maldives owing to their handsome structure and fine detailing.
Where to buy: Majeedhee Magu, Husnuheenaa Magu, Chaandhanee Magu
Starting price: $20
Suggested Read: Romantic Things To Do In Maldives On Honeymoon
4. Maldivian Sarongs
Image Source
If you’re looking for some beachy things to buy in Maldives, then you must grab a couple (or more) of those colorful Maldivian sarongs off the markets and bazaars here. There are many places in this beautiful beach destination where you can purchase stylish sarongs in pretty floral prints and vibrant colors. Maldivian sarongs come in pleasing colours and styles so that they can also be worn at different occasions like beach parties and beach barbecues. It’ll definitely make up for a beautiful item to add to your shopping bags and make your friends back home jealous! If you are visiting Maldives in February, then you have the right opportunity to don one.
Where to buy: Majeedhee Magu
Starting price: $5
Suggested Read: Mauritius Vs Maldives For Holiday
5. Coconut Items
Coconut products are some of the most famous things in Maldives to buy, not just because it’s a beach destination and coconuts here are in abundance, but also because of the different beautiful handicrafts and bizarre utility items Maldivians make out of these! When the pulp inside this large fruit is consumed, the rest of it isn’t thrown away. Everything from the coconut shell, outer crust, bark, leaves, and stems have some or the other industrial use. You’ll find a variety of products like statues, vases, wall hangings, baskets, bowls, spatulas, lampshades, coir ropes, mats, bags, and a lot other things made out of coconut palm wood, shells, and leaves at different stores and souvenir shops in Maldives.
Where to buy: Male Market, Maafushi Island, STO Trade Centre
Starting price: $5
Suggested Read: Maldives In June – A Guide To Holidaying At The Tropical Island
6. Traditional Jewelry
Women don’t usually end up worrying about what to shop in Maldives since this place is a paradise for female shopaholics. You can buy everything from clothes, hats, sarongs, organic beauty products, to some amazing Maldivian jewelry here! That’s right, ladies! Among other things to do in Male, you can head to any flea market or street bazaar in Male and pick a variety of quirky trinkets like handmade necklaces, bracelets, and earrings made out of natural items like seashells, coconut fiber, stones, ceramic, tree raisin, and seeds in rock bottom rates. You can also buy pearl jewelry here but that’ll be a tad bit expensive.
Where to buy: Male, Fareedhee Magu’s Island Bazaar, Majeedhee Magu
Starting price: $30
Tip: Do NOT buy jewelry made out of shark teeth as well as red and black corals since the export of these items is strictly prohibited.
Suggested Read: 25 Maldives Travel Tips You Must Keep In Mind
7. Organic Cosmetics
Maldives also has something for all those who love to use organic beauty products to keep their skin healthy and slowing for years on end. All know that virgin coconut oil is overflowing with nutrients and is thus used to prepare body care products like hair oils, body oils, moisturizers, and even cooking oils. And guess what, Maldives is among the leading tropical nations to have harnessed the power of coconut oil. With a range of coconut-based organic beauty products made here, Maldives has devised the perfect recipe to pamper its visitors. You can buy a range of such products promising superior quality and results at reasonable rates from famous Maldivian brands like Kaashi Theyo and Frella and Faan.
Where to buy: Kaashi Theyo (Malé), Frella (Malé), and Faan
Starting price: $25
Suggested Read: 28 Best Islands In Maldives For Honeymoon For An Instant Cupid-Strike
8. Packaged Fish Products
Image Source
Gorging on the delicious seafood at the restaurants in Maldives will have you wishing you could take some home with you. Well, guess what! You can! Shopping in Maldives actually gives travelers the option of taking home packaged fish products that can be consumed in 3 to 4 days. Everything from vacuum-packed and canned versions of fish fillets, smoked fish, chipped dried fish, and fish pickle can be purchased here and taken home to let your friends and family have a taste of the delish Maldivian cuisine!
Where to buy: Majeedhee Magu and Male
Starting price: $20
Suggested Read: Maldives Vs Caribbean
9. Fridge Magnets
If you are wondering what to buy in Maldives for your friends and family, then you can never go wrong with fridge magnets. You will have an amazing choice in Maldives when it comes to quirky fridge magnets and it is easily available at all shops and markets in Maldives. Bring some tropical vibes back to home and put them on your fridge. Every time you head to the fridge of a can of beer, you will be reminded of your tropical Maldives bridge.
Where to buy: Majeedhee Magu, Husnuheenaa Magu, Chaandhanee Magu
Starting price: $2
Suggested Read: Maldives Vs Andaman: Which One Will Make The Cut For Your Vacation?
10. Wicker Mats
Wicker mats are another one of the amazing things to buy during Maldives shopping. Since these things are handmade, these make an excellent souvenirs from your tropical island holiday. Also, these objects are so pretty that you won’t be able to resist yourself from buying for your home. These mats will not only jazz up your space but also make an excellent conversation-starter.
Where to buy: Majeedhee Magu, Husnuheenaa Magu, Chaandhanee Magu
Starting price: $20
Further Read: 27 Best Beaches In Maldives For A Relaxing Time With Your Partner
Have you got more places to add to this list of where to go shopping in Maldives and what to buy from Maldives? Tell us what more you wish to add to help shopaholics visiting Maldives explore its colorful and vibrant bazaars properly before you plan a trip to the Maldives.
Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist, or photographer.
Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shopping In Maldives
What is Maldives famous for?
Maldives is known for its natural richness. The gorgeous beaches, exquisite fauna and flora, abundance of marine life, enthralling water sports adventures and many more such expeditions makes Maldives a popular tourist destination.
What should I buy in Maldives?
Some of the must-buy in Maldives include: 1. Thundu Kunaa - traditional Maldivian mats 2. Lacquer work - traditional Maldivian handicrafts 3. Jewelry - pretty handmade jewelry 4. Fish Products and Cosmetics
What are some of the fun things to do in Maldives?
There are a variety of fun things to do in Maldives to relax and rejuvenate: 1. Snorkeling 2. Parasailing 3. Scuba diving 4. Sunset cruise
How safe is Maldives from the Coronavirus epidemic?
You need to follow all the safety measures meticulously to ensure a safer experience. Remain masked in public places and keep sanitizing your hands regularly. Maintain social distance is one of the most important rule to be followed while exploring the islands.
What are the best things to buy from Centro Mall?
Centro Mall is the classic luxury shopping place in Maldives. The best buy from here includes garments, electrical appliances, accessories, home décor, and appliances.
When is the best time to visit Maldives?
November to April is the best time to visit this beach destination. It is a dry season in Maldives making it a perfect time to enjoy various outdoor activities.
What is the highlight of Island Bazaar?
Island bazaar offers some unique gift items and not only does it sells stylish products but also handmade items. Some of the famous things to buy here include handmade jewelry, scarves, and macramé works.
Which are the popular street market in Maldives?
Male local market and Majeedhee Magu are popular places for street shopping in Maldives. They are a one-stop destination for everything you would like to buy.
What should I pack for a holiday to the Maldives?
ince Maldives is a beach destination, you must pack everything that you would essentially require for a beach vacation. These things include: 1. Sunscreen 2. Sunglasses 3. Hat 4. Beachwear 5. Slippers
Can I use my credit card for shopping in Maldives?
Credit cards are accepted at most malls, shops, and resort shops in the Maldives. However, a little convenience fee is applicable on the bill.
What is the best currency to use in the Maldives?
The Euro and the Dollar are widely accepted currencies on the island if you ever want to go shopping in Maldives.
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
People Also Read:
Shopping In SIngapore Shopping In Bangkok Shopping In Sri Lanka
A book lover and fun-loving, overtly emotional mom with a wanderlust soul, Sukanya has completed her Master Degree in Geography and currently perusing her passion for writing as a profession. Nothing detoxes her more than trying new recipes and travelling to offbeat places is ultimate Therapy for her.
