"A stunning aerial view of a tropical island resort in the Maldives, surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and lush green palm trees."

What to buy in The Maldives

Maldives and shopping are not words you typically see side by side. This tropical paradise is more synonymous with relaxation, luxury, and crystal-clear waters. But if you’re visiting and looking to take home a piece of the Maldives, there are a few souvenirs, trinkets, and gifts worth considering.

Feyli

A Feyli is a traditional Maldivian sarong worn by both men and women. It is usually black and white, with a striped or bordered design, and is often worn during cultural ceremonies or as casual loungewear. It is lightweight and easy to pack, and you can use it as a beach wrap, a scarf, or as home decor.

Sea shells

While collecting sea shells from protected areas is discouraged, you can find sea shell souvenirs from other areas. These can be turned into jewellery, decorative items, or even small trinket boxes.

Local snacks

Maldivian snacks are good if you love a good munch. One of the most popular is breadfruit chips. Other local treats include dried fish chips and coconut-based sweets.

Maldivian art

If you appreciate local craftsmanship, then consider Maldivian art. Look for paintings that capture the beauty of island life, intricate wood carvings, and lacquered boxes that showcase traditional Maldivian designs.

Handmade jewellery

You can get handcrafted pieces made from ocean-inspired materials. They can be a cute sentimental gift or a must-have if you love jewellery.

Mini sailboat (Dhoni model)

The Dhoni is a traditional Maldivian wooden boat used for fishing and transportation. Miniature Dhonis are charming souvenirs, as they represent a significant part of Maldivian culture.

They are often carved by hand from wood and can be displayed as home decor or desk ornaments.

Fridge magnets

Fridge magnets are classic souvenirs, and you can find Maldives-themed ones at duty-free shops in the airport or local souvenir stores.

Postcards

Postcards might seem old-fashioned, but they are still a wonderful way to capture the beauty of a destination. You can mail them to loved ones while you’re there or keep them as part of your travel collection.