Hulhumalé: The Modern Oasis of the Maldives

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Hulhumalé

Hulhumalé, a reclaimed island in Malé, Maldives, is a blend of modernity and natural beauty. This vibrant neighborhood is a testament to the Maldives' forward-thinking infrastructure and urban planning. With its pristine beaches, palm-fringed pathways, and crystal-clear waters, Hulhumalé offers a perfect escape for those looking to experience the charms of the Maldives without venturing too far from the bustling capital of Malé. Stroll along the picturesque beach promenades, where the azure waters of the Indian Ocean meet soft, white sands. Hulhumalé's beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and indulging in various water sports such as snorkeling and jet skiing. The island's well-maintained parks and green spaces provide serene spots for picnics and leisurely walks. Hulhumalé is also home to a variety of dining options, from local Maldivian cuisine to international flavors. The neighborhood's cafes and restaurants offer stunning ocean views, making dining here a delightful experience. Don't miss the chance to visit the local markets, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and souvenirs to take home. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, Hulhumalé has something for everyone. Its proximity to Velana International Airport makes it an easily accessible destination for tourists, making it the perfect starting point for exploring the Maldives.

Local tips in Hulhumalé

Visit the Hulhumalé Central Park for a peaceful retreat amidst lush greenery.
Explore the local markets early in the morning for the freshest produce and unique souvenirs.
Take a sunset walk along the beach promenade for breathtaking ocean views.
Try local Maldivian dishes at neighborhood eateries for an authentic culinary experience.
Book water sports activities in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

File:Swing Hulhumale Beach-Maldives-Andres Larin.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

White Beach Holiday At Hulhumale' Hotel for Family Vacation With a 7.8 Expert Points in 2024 | maldiveshotelsr.com

File:Male' Hulhumale Hukuru Miskiy 2.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Malediven Rückflug Hulhumale 4.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

maldives, hulhumalé, abstract, sky, photoshop, trees, tree, sunset | Piqsels

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Central Park (Hulhumalé)

Escape to Hulhumalé's largest green space: Central Park, where nature meets recreation and community thrives.

Republic Square

Experience the vibrant heart of Malé at Republic Square, a cultural hub with lush greenery, the iconic Maldivian flag, and a lively local atmosphere.

Hulhumale Public Beach

Discover turquoise waters & soft sands at Hulhumale Public Beach, a serene & budget-friendly escape near Male, Maldives. #HulhumaleBeach #MaldivesTravel

Tsunami Monument

A solemn memorial in Malé, commemorating the 2004 tsunami and the resilience of the Maldivian people.

FDI Station Hulhumale'

Discover the beauty of the Maldives and capture stunning memories at FDI Station Hulhumale', a premier photography studio for tourists.

Hulhumale Ferry Terminal

Experience the Maldives: Hulhumale Ferry Terminal connects you to island adventures, cultural experiences, and the beauty of the archipelago.

Victory Monument

Visit the Victory Monument in Malé: a tribute to Maldivian bravery and a serene escape in the heart of the capital.

Hulhumale Beach

Experience the Maldives on a budget at Hulhumale Beach: turquoise waters, white sands, and modern comforts await just minutes from the airport.

Furuba Beach by Dive Club Maldives

Experience tranquility and adventure at Furuba Beach in Hulhumalé, Maldives: sun, sand, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life await!

Hulhumale Channel

Experience the tranquil beauty of Hulhumale Channel, Maldives: stunning views, water activities, and serene relaxation await.

Unmissable attractions to see

Hulhumale Beach

Discover the stunning beauty of Hulhumale Beach in the Maldives, where pristine sands meet crystal-clear waters for the perfect tropical getaway.

Lookout Point

Explore Lookout Point in Malé for stunning views and a peaceful hiking experience amidst the beauty of the Maldives.

Tri sea view hulumale beach

Experience the serene beauty of Tri Sea View Hulumale Beach, where stunning ocean views meet tranquil sandy shores in the Maldives.

Scuba Snorkel Drop

Explore vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life at Scuba Snorkel Drop in Hulhumalé, a top tourist attraction for underwater adventures.

Sunrise East

Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture at Sunrise East, a must-visit tourist attraction in the heart of Hulhumalé, Maldives.

T-Man's Beach

Discover the stunning beauty of T-Man's Beach in Hulhumalé, where turquoise waters and white sands create a tropical paradise for every traveler.

Essential places to dine

Bombay Darbar

Experience the rich tapestry of Indian flavors at Bombay Darbar - where every dish tells a story.

Naga's Indian Restaurant

Discover the rich flavors of India at Naga's Indian Restaurant in Hulhumalé - where every dish tells a story.

Tandoori Flames Hulhumale

Experience authentic Pakistani and Indian cuisine at Tandoori Flames in Hulhumale - where every dish tells a story.

Papa Sam's

Discover authentic Maldivian flavors at Papa Sam's in Hulhumalé – where every meal is a celebration of taste and culture.

Yellowfin Dine-in

Experience the best of Maldivian cuisine at Yellowfin Dine-in in Hulhumalé - where fresh flavors meet exceptional service.

King's Garden Restaurant

Experience culinary bliss at King's Garden Restaurant, where Maldivian flavors meet global cuisine amidst lush surroundings.

The Keyolhu

Discover The Keyolhu in Hulhumalé - where exquisite Japanese and Thai cuisine meets the freshest seafood for an unforgettable dining experience.

Cloud Signature

Experience exquisite dining with stunning ocean views at Cloud Signature in Hulhumalé, Maldives – where every meal is a memorable event.

Semili's Restaurant, Hulhumale Centro Mall

Discover culinary excellence at Semili's Restaurant in Hulhumale Centro Mall – where local flavors meet international cuisine.

BRUNCH HOUSE (south indian restaurant)

Experience authentic South Indian cuisine at Brunch House in Malé - where every dish tells a story.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Fahi Plaza

Explore Fahi Plaza in Malé: a vibrant shopping destination offering a blend of local crafts and international brands amidst a lively atmosphere.

Love Me

Explore Love Me Souvenir Store in Malé for unique local crafts and gifts that capture the beauty of the Maldives.

Lily Shop Hulhumale'

Explore the enchanting Lily Shop Hulhumale', where local craftsmanship meets modern home goods in the heart of the Maldives.

Ilala style hulhumale

Discover the essence of Maldivian fashion at Ilala Style Hulhumale, where tradition meets contemporary style in a vibrant shopping experience.

Dunk in Style

Discover the latest fashion trends at Dunk in Style, Hulhumalé's premier clothing store for tourists looking for unique styles and quality apparel.

Fashion Fusion

Discover the latest fashion trends at Fashion Fusion in Hulhumalé, where local style meets international flair in a vibrant shopping atmosphere.

Mudhaafoshi hulhumale'

Discover the essence of Maldivian fashion at Mudhaafoshi Hulhumale', your premier destination for women's clothing in the vibrant city of Malé.

Showpiece

Explore the heart of Maldivian fashion at Showpiece, a clothing store that embodies the vibrant culture and style of the Maldives.

Simpatico

Discover the charm of the Maldives at Simpatico, the ultimate gift shop offering unique souvenirs and local crafts in the heart of Malé.

Unique By Jay

Explore Unique By Jay in Hulhumalé for a fashionable shopping experience that blends local style with modern trends.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Malika El Shisha

Experience the vibrant flavors of Malika El Shisha in Malé, where exquisite cuisine meets a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

Juicy

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Maldives at Juicy, a bar and juice shop in Hulhumalé serving refreshing drinks in a lively atmosphere.

The Sand Bar

Discover the vibrant flavors and relaxing atmosphere of The Sand Bar in Malé, a perfect culinary escape for tourists in the Maldives.

Kanneiy Baa

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Kanneiy Baa in Hulhumalé, where karaoke and sheesha create unforgettable moments for visitors.

Parkside Kitchen & Bar

Discover the culinary charm of Malé at Parkside Kitchen & Bar, offering a delightful blend of local and international dishes in a vibrant setting.

Jugo Bar

Experience the refreshing taste of fresh juices and smoothies at Jugo Bar in Hulhumalé, your perfect takeout stop for vibrant flavors.

Rivo lounge and karaoke

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Hulhumalé at Rivo Lounge and Karaoke, where music and laughter create unforgettable memories.

Westin Lounge

Discover tranquility at the Westin Lounge on Hulhule Island, where stunning views meet refreshing drinks in a relaxing atmosphere.

HH Lounge & Restaurant

Discover the ultimate nightlife experience at HH Lounge & Restaurant, where karaoke, South Indian cuisine, and hookah create unforgettable memories in Hulhumalé.

Chanbeyli Magu 7

Discover the lively charm of Chanbeyli Magu 7 in Hulhumalé, a perfect bar for tourists to unwind with local drinks and vibrant atmosphere.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Hulhumalé

Discover Hulhumalé with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- Helloދުވެހި
  [dhivehi]
- Goodbyeޝަދެވި
  [dhivehi]
- Yesއިތުރުގެ
  [dhivehi]
- Noނަތަރުގެ
  [dhivehi]
- Please/You're welcomeއާވަރުން
  [dhivehi]
- Thank youއަނބުން
  [dhivehi]
- Excuse me/Sorryއެދުނުކި
  [dhivehi]
- How are you?ކަލްޑިވަނީ?
  [dhivehi]
- Fine. And you?މަގަވު އަތުންނަ?
  [dhivehi]
- Do you speak English?އިނގަލްތައި ކޮއިކްސަނީ?
  [dhivehi]
- I don't understandމައެވިކަތް ނަތަރުގެ
  [dhivehi]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseމާނާވައޮތް މެނުކޮށެހިތ
  [dhivehi]
- I don't eat meatމައެވިކަރު ނަތަރުގެ
  [dhivehi]
- Cheers!ލިއެވުނަތީ!
  [dhivehi]
- I would like to pay, pleaseމާނާވައޮތް ލެނޑެހިތ
  [dhivehi]
- Help!އަބަނުނީ!
  [dhivehi]
- Go away!އަބަދުނީ!
  [dhivehi]
- Call the Police!ޕޮލިސް ކަލެކޮށެހިތ!
  [dhivehi]
- Call a doctor!ޑޮކޯތެނަޔަ ކަލެކޮށެހިތ!
  [dhivehi]
- I'm lostމައެވިކައިތައި
  [dhivehi]
- I'm illމައެވިކަރަތަނަ
  [dhivehi]
- I'd like to buy...މާނާވައޮތް ލިއުމުތ
  [dhivehi]
- I'm just lookingމާނާވައޮތް އަބަނުއް
  [dhivehi]
- How much is it?ކަލެކޮށެހިތ?
  [dhivehi]
- That's too expensiveތާށްދާ އަލަވަމުތ
  [dhivehi]
- Can you lower the price?ކުއިކްސަނީ ކަލެކޮށެހިތ?
  [dhivehi]
- What time is it?ކަލޮކޮށެހިތ?
  [dhivehi]
- It's one o'clockއާބާނުވަކޮށެހިތ
  [dhivehi]
- Half past (10)އާބާނުވަދާ
  [dhivehi]
- Morningމިއަރުނީ
  [dhivehi]
- Afternoonއާފާރުނީ
  [dhivehi]
- Eveningއެވަނަތުތަނަ
  [dhivehi]
- Yesterdayއެހެނަށި
  [dhivehi]
- Todayމާނާވެހިތ
  [dhivehi]
- Tomorrowއަތޮމޮސް
  [dhivehi]
- 11
  [dhivehi]
- 22
  [dhivehi]
- 33
  [dhivehi]
- 44
  [dhivehi]
- 55
  [dhivehi]
- 66
  [dhivehi]
- 77
  [dhivehi]
- 88
  [dhivehi]
- 99
  [dhivehi]
- 1010
  [dhivehi]
- Where's a/the...?ކުކޮއޮތް އެކުނގި...?
  [dhivehi]
- What's the address?ކަލާކުލައިނަދު...?
  [dhivehi]
- Can you show me (on the map)?ކުއިކްސަނީ އަޅައު ގަޑިނަދު?
  [dhivehi]
- When's the next (bus)?ކުކޮކުއިތޫ ކުކޮކޮވަނިތ?
  [dhivehi]
- A ticket (to ....)އައެހަނުތ ކުކޮވަލިތ (....)
  [dhivehi]

History of Hulhumalé

Hulhumalé was originally developed in the late 20th century as a solution to the land scarcity in Malé, the capital of the Maldives. The island was created through land reclamation, with the first phase starting in 1997. Its establishment aimed to provide housing and alleviate overcrowding in Malé, reflecting the Maldives' rapid population growth and urbanization.
The planning and development of Hulhumalé were guided by a vision to create a modern, sustainable city. The government emphasized the importance of infrastructure, public spaces, and community facilities. This vision was influenced by the broader aspirations of the Maldives to enhance economic opportunities and improve living standards for its citizens.
As Hulhumalé developed, concerns over environmental sustainability emerged, especially regarding the impact of land reclamation on marine ecosystems. To address these issues, the government and local organizations have implemented various environmental protection initiatives, including the establishment of green spaces and the promotion of sustainable practices among residents.
Hulhumalé has grown into a vibrant community that reflects the diverse cultures of the Maldives. The neighborhood has become home to many Maldivians, as well as expatriates from different countries. This mixture has fostered a unique cultural identity, visible in the local markets, community events, and culinary offerings, which contribute to the social fabric of the area.
Over the years, Hulhumalé has seen significant economic development, with investments in tourism, real estate, and infrastructure. The establishment of various businesses and amenities in the area has attracted both locals and tourists, positioning Hulhumalé as a key player in the Maldivian economy and a gateway for visitors exploring the archipelago.

Hulhumalé Essentials

Hulhumalé is conveniently accessible from Malé, the capital of the Maldives. The most common way to get to Hulhumalé is via a short ferry ride from Malé, which takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Regular ferry services operate throughout the day, with tickets available at the ferry terminal. Alternatively, you can take a speedboat or a taxi boat, which may be more expensive but offer a quicker transit time. For those arriving by air, Velana International Airport is located on Hulhulé Island, adjacent to Hulhumalé, and a short taxi ride will get you to your destination.
Hulhumalé is a compact and easily navigable neighbourhood. Walking is the best way to explore the area, as many attractions are within walking distance. For longer distances, bicycles can be rented from various shops, providing a pleasant way to tour the island. Local buses operate within Hulhumalé and connect to Malé and the airport, offering a budget-friendly option for transport. Taxis are also available and are a convenient choice for those seeking more comfort. However, there are no trains in the Maldives.
Hulhumalé is generally considered a safe neighbourhood for tourists, but standard precautions should always be observed. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded spaces. Although there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is advisable to be cautious near public transport hubs and markets. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid displaying valuable items.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police assistance or 102 for medical emergencies. There are local clinics and hospitals in Hulhumalé where you can seek medical help. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout the neighbourhood. Familiarize yourself with the locations of the nearest medical facilities upon arrival.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially at religious sites and public areas. Swimwear is acceptable at beaches but should not be worn in town. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially during Ramadan. Avoid eating or drinking in public during fasting hours. Public Transport: Do be courteous and give up your seat for the elderly and pregnant women. Don't play loud music or engage in disruptive behavior on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or a simple 'hello.' A handshake is common, especially among men. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't waste food or refuse hospitality, as it can be seen as disrespectful.
To experience Hulhumalé like a local, visit the bustling local markets for fresh fruits, vegetables, and Maldivian handicrafts. Engage with local fishermen and learn about their traditional practices. Don't miss the opportunity to try street food, such as mas huni (a tuna salad) and roshi (flatbread). For a unique experience, attend a local cultural event or performance if your visit coincides with one. Lastly, take time to relax on the beautiful beaches, especially during sunset, to enjoy the stunning views.

Hulhumalé: The Modern Oasis of the Maldives

Local tips in Hulhumalé