Shopping in the Maldives: where to go shopping

The capital of the Republic of Maldives, Male, in fact, is the main, and almost the only place for shopping in the Maldives. Some of the luxury resort islands have their own branded boutiques. One of the most popular in the Maldives is Nala Boutique at the Kurumba Maldives resort. However, often there are only one shops per resort, and there is simply nowhere for a real shopper to roam.

Kurumba Maldives

Shopping for souvenirs in the Maldives

Maldives' souvenirs are mainly concentrated in Male. At least in the capital, it can be purchased several times cheaper than in the shops of private resorts with a small assortment. The main streets of Male, where fascinating souvenir shopping awaits you, are Orchid Magu, Fareedhee Magu and Faamudheyri Magu. More information about Maldivian souvenirs and their varieties can be found here.

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Opening hours of shops in the Maldives

Most of the stores are open to customers daily, from 9:00 to 22:00. Several times a day they can take a break of 15-20 minutes. This is due to the performance of namaz. On Fridays, the schedules of many organizations may be slightly different. On this day, shops in the Maldives can only open from 14:00 or 15:00.

Asad Photo Maldives

Brand stores in Maldives

There are only a few boutiques in Male where you can buy branded goods without the risk of being faked. In the northern part of Chaandhanee Magu, there are two of them - Reefside and Evince, and on Majedhee Magu street, pay attention to the signs of Sonee Sports and the luxury cosmetics and perfumery store Le Cute.

Shopping in Male

If during your stay in the capital of the Maldives you have a few free hours, they should be enough for exploring the main attractions of the capital, eating at one of the many restaurants in Male and jogging along the shopping arcade. One of the top shopping spots in Male is the Singapore Market, or Chandhanee Magu Street. Here you will find several clothing and electronics stores, as well as grocery and gift shops.

Male Market

The market in Male is the center of a variety of purchases for every taste and budget. It is located in the northern part of the city, along the waterfront, on Male Higun Street. It is crowded here at any time of the day. It is a favorite shopping destination for both locals and tourists. The market is replete with numerous stalls selling souvenirs, fruits, vegetables, handicrafts and eateries. Among the plethora of merchandise, look out for exotic pickles, fresh coconut milk and butter.

Working hours: from 8:00 to 23:00.

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Majedhee Magu

Street market in the very center of the capital. There are numerous counters with clothing, accessories and appliances. In addition, of course souvenirs are everywhere and everywhere.

Shopping time: from 9:00 to 23:00.

Shopping Center STO

On Orchid Magu Street, you can go to the STO shopping center. On the ground floor, there is a wide range of manufactured goods, while counters with souvenir products occupy the second and third floors.

Visiting time: from 8:30 to 22:00.

Island Bazaar

On Fareedhee Magu, do not miss the stylish Island Bazaar. The store is quite popular among tourists who want to bring something original from the Maldives. The assortment ranges from handcrafted household items and accessories to contemporary works of art by local artisans.

Working hours: from 10:00 to 18:00, on Fridays - from 16:00 to 18:00.

Chaandhanee Magu

A very popular shopping destination in the Maldives. This is the same shopping area that locals call the Singapore Bazaar. Once upon a time, the bulk of imported goods were delivered to the Maldives from Singapore. The range has expanded over time, but the name has remained. There is a plethora of goods of various kinds at Chaandhanee Magu.

When to visit: from 9:00 am to 11:00 pm.

Oevaali Art Shop

An exclusive art store in Male is located at: H. Gaathu Giri, Bodufungandu Magu. It is worth looking for, as the Maldives art boutique offers the most original souvenirs. These are art objects and handicrafts of local artisans.

Opening hours: daily, from 10:00 to 18:00.

Duty Free

Shopping will be a great excuse to while away the waiting time at Male Airport. The duty-free section is a good place to fill your bags for last. This is a great alternative to shopping during your vacation, if you still do not have enough time to explore souvenirs. Many travelers point out the excellent selection of goods at Duty Free in the Maldives.

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