7 must-buy souvenirs in the Maldives

Shopping in the Maldives is a simple and straightforward affair. Since the island nation imports most goods, you will find that items such as electronics, branded clothing, and accessories are limited in variety and are priced considerably higher.

Unless a requirement, skip over these foreign-made goods and save your hard-earned money. However, you should not miss out on buying handmade souvenirs from the Maldives that serve as excellent gift options and mementos from an incredible vacation. Moreover, Maldivian souvenirs are not only pretty to look at, but many are functional enough that you can use them for years to come.

Where to buy souvenirs in the Maldives?

The best place to buy souvenirs in the Maldives is from shops on inhabited islands. In Malé, Majeedhee Magu, and Chaandhanee Magu are the two main streets with maximum shopping attractions. The latter of the two is mainly known for its souvenir shops.

Most island resorts have boutiques and smalls shops that sell local products, but they tend to be priced high, and you might not get enough options in terms of designs and styles.

Buying from the local community instead helps the economy at a ground level and provides a fun opportunity to practice your bargaining skills.

It is nevertheless important to check for the souvenir’s authenticity when buying from shops on inhabited islands. Nowadays, there are also cheaper versions of traditional Maldivian artifacts imported from Bali and India. While they are reasonable, these souvenirs do not have an authentic character. 

Now that you know about the basics of shopping in the archipelago, it’s time to talk about the 7 must-buy souvenirs in the Maldives.

Feyli

A sarong is the quintessential island purchase, one that you can use on your own or take back as a gift for friends. While skirts with colorful prints are aplenty in the Maldives, go with the more subtle feyli for something unique. The black and white stripes of the feyli give it a somber look, and it is usually worn along with a white full-sleeved top. Both men and women have traditionally worn a feyli, although men wear them more often nowadays during special occasions. Feyli made in Eydhaushi, Baa Atoll, is famous for its fine quality.    

Thundu Kunaa

A specialty from Maldives’ southern atolls, thundu kunaa are handwoven mats you will find in several souvenir shops. These Maldivian “carpets,” available in different sizes, are made using grass grown in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll and are then dyed naturally using leaves, roots, and fermented coconut water. Thundu kunaa typically follows set geometric styles based on original patterns. The mats have an earthy color scheme of browns, yellows, blacks, and subtle reds. Primarily used for sleeping or praying by locals, they make a beautiful decoration piece that you can also frame on your wall.    

Maldivian knick-knacks

Fridge magnets, shells painted with Maldivian scenes, colorful bags, jewelry, phone cases with tropical designs, and beautiful bowls decorated with marine life are the standard souvenirs you will find in abundance in Malé. These knick-knacks don’t cost much, take up little space, and work wonderfully as presents for your loved ones.    

Miniature dhoni

One fascinating experience to have in the Maldives is a cruise on a dhoni. These local boats have been the primary mode of travel between the islands for decades and continue to be a fundamental part of everyday Maldivian life. While taking a full-size dhoni is out of the question, you can undoubtedly pick up beautifully carved wooden miniature dhonis. The souvenir dhonis differ in size and color, but they all highlight the elegant brilliance of local craftsmanship. A dhoni displayed on your mantlepiece back home is a sure shot conversation starter.    

Coconut products

Whether we are talking about household items, furniture, or daily cooking, you will find that the island inhabitants use coconut everywhere they can. Therefore, coconut products are a must-buy souvenir in the Maldives. The perfect example of Maldivian inventiveness, coconut items include virgin coconut oil, coir ropes, handpainted masks, exotic jewelry made by polishing the shell, and raa bandhi, a special type of container constructed using two hollow coconuts.

Packed fish

To take back memories of all the delicious Maldivian food you will have during the vacation, head to the local market situated next door to the famous fish market, and pick up packets of dried Maldives fish or canned tuna products. With tuna chunks in brine or tuna steak in oil, you can then cook yummy garudhiya, mas huni, or mas roshi for your friends. Also, remember to take some rihaakuru paste or rihaakuru chips to munch on while flipping through your holiday photos.

Lacquer products

Another unique souvenir to buy in the Maldives is an item with lacquer work, locally known as “laajehun,” done on it. Artists first take wood and mold it into vases, bowls, kitchen utensils, and even pens. Then, layers of lacquer are applied, starting with bright natural colors like yellow and red, followed by black. The craftsman then makes delicate designs that bring out the bottom paint while finally applying polish to keep the product shining and safe for years. A vibrant multi-colored lacquered pen is the ultimate souvenir from the Maldives that will make an impressive statement in your business circle.

Souvenirs not to buy in the Maldives

The Maldives is a beautiful country, and to keep its sanctity intact, we as tourists must not take away anything that can harm its environment. Thus, it is banned to buy, sell, or take shark teeth, corals, and turtle shells from the islands.

You will likely find small glass bottles filled with Maldivian sand being sold in markets. However, there is an ongoing debate about whether it is okay to bring back sand or not. In the end, with so many artistic souvenirs on offer, it is best to leave the natural elements of the Maldives alone.