Many visitors do not expect this, but shopping in the Maldives can be an experience just as much as the famous water sports or overwater villas you come for.
While the Maldives is best known for coral reefs and luxury resorts, its local markets offer a clear glimpse into everyday island life.
When it comes to shopping, the Maldives surprises visitors with several unique souvenirs worth taking home. Items you should not miss purchasing are handmade miniature Dhoni boats, woven mats, and seashell jewellery.
A Quick Cultural Insight into Shopping in the Maldives
When you visit a local market, you may notice that fresh chicken is rarely available.
Almost all poultry is frozen and brought from other countries.
Fish is a famous food in the Maldives. People here prepare fish in many different ways, and often smell it when you walk by.
Even fresh milk is not common; it is usually sold in powder form. The consumption of vegetables and spices is relatively limited compared to other South Asian countries.
Smaller stores hardly sell fresh vegetables and a variety of spices. Mostly, you need to go to the main markets and bigger supermarkets for that.
These details show what life is like on the islands. The markets do not have a wide variety of products, but the items you do find, such as dried fish, coconut crafts, and jars of local foods, are special to the area.
Shopping in the Maldives is not the same as in other places, and that is what makes it stand out.
Best Maldives Shopping Markets
Visiting local markets, souvenir stores, and a few modern shopping centres in the Maldives combines local culture with some modern elements.
This guide gives you the top 10 places people like to visit in the Maldives to buy clothes, jewellery, handicrafts, perfumes, Maldivian sarongs, and so much more.
Male Local Market
Highlight: Everyday essentials – Vegetables, fresh catches (seafood), dried fish, coconut milk, pickled foods, miniature boats, seashell crafts, and fresh coconuts.
The Male Local Market is a good place to observe daily life in the Maldives. The market is always busy, with the air filled with the smell of fresh fruits, smoked fish, and pickled foods.
The Male Local Market has several sections
- Fresh fish (everyday catches)
- The vegetable and fruit section
- Dried fish products
- Coconut-based products, crafts and local snacks
Though the local provision stores have everything, fruits and vegetables are not common. So, this market in the Maldives is a go-to place for locals and tourists to stock up on essentials.
- Location: North waterfront, Male, Maldives
- Hours: 7:30 am – 10:00 pm
Majeedhee Magu
Highlight: Fashion – Clothes, cosmetics, electronics, watches, perfumes, local jewellery and souvenirs.
If you are in Male, then Majeedhee Magu is a must-visit. This main street runs east to west, stretching across the island.
This area offers one of the cheapest shopping experiences in the Maldives, with shops lined on both sides, from well-known brands to small local stores.
Most shops focus on fashion. If you are interested in clothes shopping in the Maldives, you will find plenty of options here. Also buy cosmetics, perfumes, watches, shoes, bags, and other accessories.
There are also a few electronics shops for those interested in gadgets. When you need a break, there are small cafés and snack shops along the street.
- Location: Runs east to west across Male
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
Chaandhanee Magu (Singapore Bazaar)
Highlight: Souvenirs – Thundu Kunaa mats, wooden dhonis, lacquerwork boxes, Maldivian sarongs, locally designed t-shirts, handicrafts.
For those interested in a street with more history, Chaandhanee Magu, also called Singapore Bazaar, is a good choice.
The name comes from a time when most imported goods arrived from Singapore. Although that is no longer the case, the name remains.
This street runs north to south through the centre of Male, and it’s known for souvenirs. Many shops sell traditional Maldivian crafts such as woven mats, hand-carved wooden dhoni boats, t-shirts with island designs, scarves, and sarongs with typical Maldivian patterns.
Especially look for lacquered boxes and vases painted in bright colours, which are Maldivian crafts.
- Location: Central Male (north to south)
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM
STO People’s Choice
Highlight: Supermarket – Vegetables, imported groceries, household items, and electronics.
STO People’s Choice is the largest shopping centre in Male. It offers a wide range of products in an air-conditioned building.
Both tourists and residents come here because it is convenient and offers many options. Shopping here is simple because all prices are fixed, so you do not need to bargain.
- Ground floor: Supermarket with fresh food, imported snacks, and household essentials.
- Upper floor: Electronics ranging from mobile phone accessories to larger appliances, along with clothing and footwear and an impressive souvenir section.
- Location: Orchid Magu, Male
- Hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Friday: 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM)
Island Bazaar
Highlight: Boutique shop: Kitchen textiles, tote bags, illustrated map of the Maldives, stamp collection, underwater colour design items, and more.
Island Bazaar is a boutique shop near the Sea Sports store on Fareedhee Magu (street). It is known for supporting local artists and offering products that reflect Maldivian culture and creativity.
This bazaar has a peaceful ambience, with premium products like handmade jewellery, hand-stitched cushions, tote bags, and macramé (textile art) items.
Note: Prices are higher than average, but they reflect the quality and uniqueness of the products.
- Location: M.Sisil Emporium, Fareedhee Magu, Male, Maldives
- Hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM & 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM (Closed on Fridays & Saturdays)
Le Cute
Highlight: Beauty store – Makeup, skincare, haircare, fragrances, and gift sets.
Le Cute is a well-known beauty store in the Maldives, located on Majeedhee Magu in Male. It is a popular destination for people looking for quality cosmetics and skincare products.
The store features international brands, including MAC, Benefit, and Maybelline, offering products like eyeliners, mascaras, highlighters, lipsticks, and more.
In addition to makeup, there are more things to buy in Le Cute Maldives
- High-end skincare products
- Extensive collection of fragrances
- Haircare sets
- Separate section on Korean skincare products
Prices at Le Cute are similar to those in other countries, although some luxury items may be more expensive due to import costs.
- Location: Majeedhee Magu Rd, Malé, Maldives
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Fridays: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
Redwave Mega Mall
Highlight: Biggest Mall offering household goods, furniture, electronics, groceries, frozen foods, and daily essentials.
Redwave Mega Mall is the biggest shopping mall in the Maldives, covering 8,000 square feet on Hulhumale island.
The mall has several floors with a variety of shops, making it a central shopping destination outside the capital city of Male.
You can find furniture, home goods, electronics, groceries, and many other items at reasonable prices. The supermarket is particularly notable, offering frozen foods, party supplies, spices, canned goods, and a variety of beverages.
While it lacks the traditional feel of a local market, it offers the modern convenience that many families and travellers appreciate, especially when shopping for multiple necessities.
- Location: Hithigas Magu, Hulhumale
- Hours: 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM (Saturday to Thursday), 8:00 AM to 10:30 AM & 2:00 PM to 11:00 PM (Friday)
The Marina @ Crossroads Maldives
Highlight: High-end shopping and dining experience.
Located just a 15-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, The Marina Crossroads Maldives is a premium shopping destination.
Unlike most resorts in the Maldives, which only allow registered guests, CROSSROADS welcomes everyone. Both international visitors and Maldivian residents can visit for the day without booking a room to explore the marina, shop, dine, or enjoy the waterfront.
The area combines a European-style promenade with a relaxed island atmosphere, featuring a range of upscale boutiques, cafes, and speciality shops.
A highlight of the Marina is the Candy Shop, one of the best chocolate shops in the Maldives, which offers more than 150 types of sweets from around the world, including gummies, marshmallows, chocolates, and unique candies.
- Location: Emboodhoo Lagoon, 15 minutes by speedboat from Male
- Hours: Most shops are open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Male International Airport Duty Free
Highlight: Best for last-minute shoppers.
If you are running late but still want to shop, Velana International Airport offers many options. The duty-free area covers almost 600 square metres in the departure section.
Here are a few duty-free items at Velana International Airport
- Perfume stores (Dior, Bulgari, Yves Saint Laurent, Kenzo and more)
- Cosmetics section (Jo Malone London, Tom Ford, MAC and more)
- Fashion and accessories (Tumi, Michael Kors, Longines, Tissot, Montblanc, and Swarovski)
- Chocolate shop (Toblerone, Godiva, Goldkenn and more)
There are also stalls selling Maldivian souvenirs. Prices are generally higher than in Male’s markets, but the convenience and tax-free status can be worth it for travellers in a hurry.
Note: The airport is one of the few places in the Maldives where it is legal to purchase alcohol if you are not on a resort island.
- Location: Departure area, Velana International Airport
- Timings: 24/7 (Shops open until the last flight departs)
Centro Mall
Highlight: A quick hangout spot with cafes, boutique stores, and restaurants.
Centro Mall is the first mini-mall in the Maldives, located in the central commercial area of Hulhumale.
The layout of the mall is designed for easy navigation, and a large, open courtyard in the middle is often used for events.
The mall provides a variety of options for visitors. There is a pharmacy for health needs, a supermarket for groceries and household products, and several smaller shops that sell clothing, accessories, and mobile phone items.
There are also places to eat, from casual cafés to get coffee to restaurants for meals, so visitors can spend time there comfortably.
Note: Most shops are currently closed, and some are vacant. Check out this mall if you are staying in the area and don’t necessarily travel to shop here.
- Location: Huvandhumaa Hingun, Hulhumale
- Timings: 07:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Conclusion
Shopping in the Maldives is not only about making purchases. You may talk with local sellers, learn about handmade products, and support local businesses.
From traditional markets to modern malls and airport duty-free shops, there are options for all kinds of travellers. It is a good idea to bring an extra bag for your purchases, as you may find items and memories that are unique to the Maldives.
Frequently Asked Questions on Best Places for Shopping in the Maldives
What are the customs regulations and restricted items you should know about when shopping in the Maldives?
Certain items are not allowed to be taken out of the Maldives, including coral, turtle shells, shark teeth, and whale bones. If found, these items will be confiscated by customs, and fines may apply.
Alcohol cannot be brought into the country, and you can only buy it at airport duty-free shops when leaving. Also, alcohol is sold only on resort islands, not in public islands.
However, carry other items, such as handicrafts, lacquerware, and woven mats, without any problems. If you buy jewellery with gems or precious metals, make sure to get proper documentation and keep your receipts, especially for expensive pieces.
Is bargaining expected when shopping in local Maldivian markets, and what are the cultural etiquette rules?
Bargaining is common in Maldivian markets. Vendors at places like Male Local Market, Chaandhanee Magu, and Majeedhee Magu often set prices higher than what they will accept. Negotiation is common in these markets.
Always be polite and friendly, and avoid being too aggressive. If you do not intend to buy, it is better not to start bargaining. In stores with fixed prices, like STO Trade Centre or shopping malls, bargaining is not allowed.
What are the best Maldivian souvenirs to buy during your trip that represent local culture and craftsmanship?
Here are the best things to buy in the Maldives
- Miniature Dhoni: This truly represents Maldivian culture. It’s a small, hand-carved wooden model of the traditional Maldivian boat.
- Thundu Kunaa mat: Another popular item is the woven mat made from dried reeds, produced using traditional methods passed down over generations.
- Lacquerware items: Boxes and vases with Maldivian themes that are painted in bright colours.
- Coconut shell bowls & kitchen utensils: This shows how local people make use of available resources.
- Jewellery: Look for pieces made from shells, which are simple but attractive.
- Local food products: Consider buying vacuum-packed smoked tuna or Rihaakuru fish paste, both of which are typical Maldivian foods.
What are the best times to visit markets and shopping areas in the Maldives to avoid crowds and get the best selection?
To find the best selection and avoid crowds, visit Male Local Market early in the morning, between 7 and 9 AM. This is when produce is freshest and before most tourists arrive. After 10 AM, the market gets busier, and the weather becomes hotter.
For street shopping on Chaandhanee Magu or Majeedhee Magu, weekday mornings from 9 to 11 AM are most suitable. Avoid shopping between 12 PM and 2 PM, as many shops close for prayers, and it gets very hot.
On Fridays, most shops open later in the afternoon or in the evenings, after Jumu’ah prayers. Shopping malls usually follow regular opening hours. Just check before you go there.
