Malé, Maldives 🇲🇻
#1216
,
Nomad Score:
50%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Malé is the capital city of the Maldives, known for its vibrant culture and stunning architecture. |
| 👥 Population | Approx. 200,000 |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average speed is about 30 Mbps, but may vary depending on location. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | 1 USD ≈ 15.4 MVR (Maldivian Rufiyaa) |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | 230V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type D and G sockets |
| 📶 SIM Card | Ooredoo and Dhiraagu are the main providers offering good coverage and affordable data plans. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted; ATMs available but can be limited. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include hotels, guesthouses, and serviced apartments. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Yes, cards accepted widely, especially in larger establishments. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local guesthouses are common for short stays. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Local guesthouses can start from around $30 per night. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | The waterfront area offers stunning views and close proximity to attractions. |
| 🏙️ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Areas near Malé's city center provide easy access to coworking spaces and amenities. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | The Hive Malé offers a productive environment and networking opportunities. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | The Coffee Shop is a popular remote work spot, with good Wi-Fi and ambiance. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Monthly meetups and workshops organized by local expats and digital nomad groups. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | The Maldives Expats Facebook Group frequently posts about community events. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Kuriir and Ooredoo's ride-hailing feature are popular options. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available from various shops around the city. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Hulhumale Beach is approximately 15 minutes away by ferry. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Maldivian is the main regional carrier for inter-island flights. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Emirates and Qatar Airways offer frequent flights. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Malé is well-connected by ferry service to nearby islands. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Malé's ferry terminal serves as the primary transport hub. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Ferry passes available for unlimited travel within some routes. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Inter-island ferries and seaplanes make travel between islands convenient. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | ADK Hospital offers quality healthcare services. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | The Yoga Room offers classes and wellness retreats. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness First provides various membership options. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services are available in most guesthouses and hotels. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Heavenly Maldivian Cuisine app offers local food delivery. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Mas Huni – a traditional breakfast dish made with tuna and coconut. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | The Lotus Restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian-friendly dishes. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Cafe Lune is famous for its delicious pastries and desserts. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Local markets like Majeedhee Magu offer various groceries and local products. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | The Maldives' E-commerce platform offers local products online. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Lime and Dhiraagu offer grocery delivery services. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Mahal Nightclub is popular among locals and expatriates. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | Maldivian Brew specializes in local craft beer. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Wine & Dine offers a selection of fine wines. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Local stalls in Malé offer snacks like Samosas and Fish Cutlets. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Thai & Chinese restaurants are widely available in the city. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | The Maldives Islamic Centre and the Old Friday Mosque are essential visits. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Maldives National Museum showcases the cultural heritage of the Maldives. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | The Old Friday Mosque dates back to the 17th century. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Grand Friday Mosque is one of the largest in the Maldives. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Independence Day is celebrated with parades and festivities every July. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Henveiru is known for local festivals and traditions. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | The National Theatre in Malé hosts performances and events. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Shoe Market offers local handicrafts and souvenirs. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Local open mic nights at various cafes support emerging artists. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Fahiheen Park features stunning murals and local art installations. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Maldivian cooking classes are offered in various guesthouses. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | The National Art Gallery showcases contemporary Maldivian art. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Mulee Aage is a historical building that serves as the President's Office. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The Maldivian flag represents unity and independence. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Fihalhohi Island offers beautiful beaches and snorkeling. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Banana Reef is a popular scuba diving spot nearby. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Bike paths are being developed along Hulhumale Lagoon. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | The top of the artificial island offers great sunset views. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Spot numerous bird species at the nearby islands. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated areas on various resorts allow bonfires during evenings. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Maldives Post offers reliable shipping services. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Local electronics stores provide repair services. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Some community centers have table tennis facilities. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Learn Dhivehi at various local language schools. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | The National Library is the best place for reading and studying. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Centre for Youth Activities offers cultural events and gatherings. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Casual gaming spots are available at various cafes. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Maldives does not have traditional casinos, but games are offered in resorts. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $5,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $200,000) |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $4,000 per m² (e.g., 40 m² = $160,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $4,500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $270,000) |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $3,500 per m² (e.g., 60 m² = $210,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $4,000 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $320,000) |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $3,200 per m² (e.g., 80 m² = $256,000) |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | 15% |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | 0% |
| 🏦 Tax System | Tax residency based on physical presence for 183 days. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | 15% |
| 🧾 VAT | 6% |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, Maldives imposes CFC rules on foreign entities. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property tax based on property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | 0% for Maldivian citizens; 10% for foreigners. |
| 💻 Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | Foreigners typically pay no tax on income earned outside Maldives. |