Hulhumale City Guide

Food is mostly Maldivian with a good mix of Indian, Chinese, and Western cafés. Expect a lot of fish. Vegetarian food is possible but less common. Some spots stay open late.

No alcohol on the island. Nightlife is about cafés, shisha lounges, and walks along the beach, not parties or bars.

Specialty coffee shops are growing, but the local style is strong and sweet. Good for a casual work spot.

Service charge (10%) is usually included in bills. Extra tips for great service are nice, but not required.

Buy SIM cards at the airport from Ooredoo or Dhiraagu. Bring your passport for registration. Good coverage and data. eSIM may or may not be an option.

Streets and public spaces are kept clean. Recycling programs are in place.

Some minimarts and a few pharmacies open very late or 24/7. Most other services keep regular hours.

Large supermarkets like STO Supermart and Redwave stock most basics, including some international brands. Shops open early to late but may close during prayer or on Fridays.

Cards work at hotels, bigger restaurants, and supermarkets, but most smaller shops still want cash.

ATMs are near banks and in main commercial areas. Expect possible withdrawal and international bank fees.

Local schools in Hulhumalé teach mostly in Dhivehi and English. International schools are found in Malé.

Few nomads for now, but some meetups and digital-friendly cafés. No formal community spaces yet.

Central Park and tree-lined streets offer open space to relax or exercise.

Running paths line the beach and park. Safe and scenic, especially at sunrise or sunset.

A few gyms plus public sports areas like football pitches and courts.

Some tennis courts in sports complexes. Book ahead and ask about gear rental.

Padel is rare but might exist at some private clubs or high-end resorts.

Some guesthouses offer yoga—studios are rare. Spa services more common in resorts.

You’ll find some karate and taekwondo classes in gyms. English-speaking coaches may be available.

No skiing—Maldives is flat and tropical.

Paddleboarding, kayaking, jet-skiing, and more—rentals are easy, especially near the beach.

No surf breaks in town, but top spots are 30–60 minutes by boat—tours can be booked easily.

Great dive shops and easy access to coral reefs with lots of marine life. Snorkeling is also top notch.

Hulhumalé Hospital covers emergencies and everyday needs. Staff in main hospitals often speak English. Pharmacies are common for basics. Private clinics can be more comfortable for specialized care.

Tap water isn’t safe to drink. Stick to bottled or filtered water.

Hulhumalé works for families, with playgrounds and outdoor spaces. Supermarkets stock some baby supplies and there are kid-friendly cafés.

LGBTQ+ travelers should be discreet—laws are strict and acceptance is low.

Pets are restricted and not common on local islands. Importing pets takes paperwork and approval.