Ukulhas, Maldives 🇲🇻
#1223
4.21489, 72.86447
Nomad Score:
50%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Ukulhas is a small island located in the Alif Alif Atoll, known for its vibrant community and relaxed atmosphere. |
| 👥 Population | Approximately 1,500 residents. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average speed of 20-30 Mbps, suitable for basic remote work. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Currency is the Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR). 1 USD ≈ 15 MVR. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable. Bottled water is recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity supply: 230V, 50Hz, 🔌 Type G sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Available from providers like Dhiraagu and Ooredoo, with prepaid options. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Major cards accepted at larger establishments; ATMs available. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include guesthouses and locally operated homestays. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Partially cashless; however, cash is widely used. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Available via local guesthouses and Airbnb listings. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Options include guesthouses such as Ukulhas Inn and Jaani's Guest House. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Not many dedicated coworking spaces; working from cafes or guesthouses is common. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | Cafe 8 and Ukulhas Harbor Cafe are popular among remote workers. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Limited formal networking events; locals are welcoming, offering informal meetups. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Occasional gatherings at guesthouses or community activities. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | Local taxis are available, no specific ride-app services. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bicycles are available to rent for easy island exploration. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Ukulhas Beach is known for its stunning white sands and clear waters. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Trans Maldivian Airways for domestic travel between islands. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | Maldives National Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates are main carriers. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | The island is small and walkable; no major highways available. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | There are no trains; ferry services connect Ukulhas to the main Velana International Airport. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | No formal public transport system; ferries are used for inter-island travel. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Ferry services available to nearby islands and the capital Malé. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Ukulhas Health Centre for basic medical needs; larger facilities in Malé. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited options; select guesthouses offer wellness activities. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Basic fitness options available in some guesthouses. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Laundry services available at most guesthouses. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Limited options; most restaurants are local and dine-in only. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Mas Huni, a breakfast dish made with tuna, coconut, and onions. |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Local restaurants may offer vegetarian options, but choices are limited. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Local desserts found at most cafes, with traditional sweets like bondibaiy and fruit salads. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Small local shops and markets for fresh produce and snacks. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited; local shopping is preferred in-person. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Limited options; local markets are the main source. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Ukulhas is quieter at night, with casual gatherings at guesthouses. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | No breweries; local drinks include coconut water and imported beverages. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Limited options; alcohol is restricted outside resorts. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Few street vendors; traditional snacks are available in the local market. |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Western-style cuisine available at select cafes and guesthouses. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Visit the local mosque and community center for cultural experiences. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | Limited cultural institutions; local art displayed in guesthouses. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Explore local architecture and traditional Maldivian houses. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | Ukulhas Mosque is a significant site for visitors. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | National holidays celebrated; specific local events are limited. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | The entire island is a cultural district, showcasing local life. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | No dedicated theaters; local gatherings may include performances. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Weekly markets for fresh fish and local produce. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Traditional music can be heard during local celebrations. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Minimal street art; focus on natural beauty and traditional culture. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Limited; inquire with guesthouses for local cooking experience. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Not available locally; local crafts can be purchased at markets. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | Traditional Maldivian structures throughout the island. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | Community values reflect Maldivian heritage through warm hospitality. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Snorkeling and diving spots abound around Ukulhas. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is accessible via boat. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | The island is small and walkable, with bike rentals available. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Beautiful beachside spots ideal for sunset views. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | Common sightings include various tropical birds; explore the island for best views. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Designated beach areas permit bonfires; inquire locally. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Limited; DHL and local post office available for shipping. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | No dedicated tech repair shops; basic troubleshooting available through guesthouses. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Some guesthouses have table tennis tables for guests. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Basic English spoken; no formal language classes. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Local guesthouses offer peaceful areas for studying. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | The local community center hosts various community events. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Not available; local residents engage more in outdoor activities. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | No gambling facilities on Ukulhas; entertainment is mainly nature and local culture. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approximately MVR 25,000 per m²; example: 50 m² studio = MVR 1,250,000. |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Not applicable; Ukulhas is a small island with no suburbs. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. MVR 20,000 per m²; example: 60 m² = MVR 1,200,000. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Not applicable. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. MVR 18,000 per m²; example: 80 m² = MVR 1,440,000. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Not applicable. |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Current corporate tax rate is 15%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Where applicable, 0% on dividends from local companies. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Based on residency with local and national rates applying. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Tax rates may vary, but top bracket is approximately 15%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Standard VAT rate is 6% on goods and services. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | No strict CFC regulations in the Maldives. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | No annual property tax in the Maldives. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Typically 3% on property transactions. |