Huraa, Maldives 🇲🇻
#2119
,
Nomad Score:
47%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Huraa is a picturesque island located in the North Malé Atoll of the Maldives, known for its white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs. |
| 👥 Population | Approximate population is around 1,200 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 25 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | The currency is Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), approximately 1 USD ≈ 15.30 MVR. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Tap water is not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity supply is 230V, 50Hz, using Type G sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Local providers include Dhiraagu and Ooredoo, offering competitive data packages. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Local banks may have limited services for expats; international cards are generally accepted. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include guesthouses and small hotels, commonly booked through local platforms or Airbnb. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Cashless payments are becoming more common, but having cash on hand is advisable. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses offer short-term rental solutions, typically ranging from $40 to $100 per night. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Affordable accommodation is available, with prices starting at around $30 per night at local guesthouses. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Stay near the beach area for easy access to snorkeling and local amenities. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Consider guesthouses with good Wi-Fi and a peaceful atmosphere, focusing on beach-side locations. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | While Huraa lacks dedicated coworking spaces, some guesthouses offer work-friendly environments. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Zima Cafe is popular among digital nomads for its relaxed vibe and Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Networking events are rare; socializing with local expats can be done at cafes and community spots. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Look for local meetups and social events advertised through social media, particularly Facebook groups. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available, but there's no specific app; negotiate fares directly. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bicycles can be rented for a small fee, typically around $5 per day. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Huraa's main beach is just a short walk from most accommodations, offering stunning sunset views. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Trans Maldivian Airways operates seaplane transfers to and from Malé. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Qatar Airways and Emirates are among the major international carriers serving Malé. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Huraa is primarily accessible by boat; there are no highways on the island. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There is no train service; transfers from Malé are primarily by boat. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Not applicable; public transportation is limited to ferry services. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Speedboats to Malé are frequent, with one-way fares around $20. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | The nearest hospital is in Malé; Huraa has basic healthcare facilities. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Several guesthouses offer yoga classes, especially during high season. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic gym facilities are available at some guesthouses. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services are offered by most guesthouses for a small fee, typically around $5. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Food delivery is limited; local restaurants may offer direct delivery. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try Garudhiya, a traditional fish soup, commonly served in local eateries. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Some local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but vegan options are limited. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Sweets like Dhon Riha are popular; try them at local cafes. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Huraa has a few small shops offering snacks and local produce. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited online shopping options; local markets are more common. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Grocery delivery is not common; shops are typically small and locally owned. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Nightlife is minimal; local cafes host occasional music events. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | There are no local breweries on Huraa; beer is imported. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Wine bars are not available; alcohol is primarily served at resorts. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Limited street food options; local eateries provide affordable meals. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | You can find various international dishes in accommodations and local restaurants. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the local mosque and enjoy the scenic beaches. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Cultural sites are scarce; focus on marine and natural attractions. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Notable historical sites are limited but explore the traditional Maldivian architecture. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The island has a beautiful mosque which reflects traditional Maldivian aesthetics. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Local festivals are celebrated, mainly around Eid and Independence Day. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The whole island has a local culture that is rich, but no specific districts. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Theater performances are rare; focus on local culture in casual settings. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Small street markets offer local produce and goods, especially on weekends. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music is limited; local Maldivian music can occasionally be heard in cafes. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Street art is not common, but traditional crafts are prevalent. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Some guesthouses may offer cooking classes for traditional dishes. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Limited art galleries; focus on local crafts and souvenirs. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Explore traditional Maldivian houses on the island. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The community maintains a strong sense of local heritage, reflected in their customs. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Huraa is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs, ideal for snorkeling. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Nearby natural reserves can be accessed via boat, offering stunning landscapes. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Walking around the island is enjoyable, but cycling paths are limited. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The beach offers breathtaking sunset views, especially from the western side. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Birdwatching can be done around the mangrove areas nearby. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Bonfires are typically not allowed on public beaches; check with guesthouses for options. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local post offices handle parcel delivery; however, international services are limited. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Tech repair options are scarce; consider seeking services in Malé. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Limited recreational activities; some guesthouses offer table tennis. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language classes are rare; however, informal swaps with locals can be done. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | No formal libraries; most reading can be done in guesthouses. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Limited community centers; interaction is mainly within guesthouses. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Gaming lounges are not available; small gaming setups may be found in guesthouses. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No casinos on the island; they are primarily located in resorts. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $2,500 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $100,000), though real estate options are limited. |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $80,000), with few listings available. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $3,000 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $180,000) in prime areas. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $150,000) in less central areas. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $3,200 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $256,000) in desirable locations. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $2,700 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $216,000) for larger spaces. |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | The corporate tax rate in the Maldives is 15%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | The dividend withholding tax rate is 5%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | The Maldives operates on a territorial tax system, taxing only income generated within the country. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | The personal income tax rate is capped at 15%. |
| 🧾 VAT | The standard VAT rate is 6%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No specific CFC rules apply in the Maldives. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Property taxes are minimal; specific local rates apply. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | A stamp duty of 2% is applicable on property transactions. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | There are no income taxes for expatriates earning outside the Maldives. |