What Souvenirs Should You Buy in the Maldives?

In addition to promoting its sustainable practices, the Maldives is renowned for producing a wide range of souvenirs that depict the islands' natural beauty and culture. From eco-friendly lacquerware and coconut shell products, each souvenir carries the elegance of the Maldives' vibrant traditions and commitment to environmental preservation.

Sustainable Tourism and Local Communities

Eco-friendly resorts in the Maldives are continually pushing the needle in their initiatives promoting the safeguarding of the environment. Establishments belonging to popular chains like Adaaran resorts prioritise sustainable methods that benefit both the environment and local communities. Many popular resorts encourage guests to buy locally created, sustainably gathered souvenirs, thereby preserving traditional crafts and assisting local craftsmen. In addition to marketing local products, Maldivian businesses support conservation measures such as coral reef protection and garbage management.

Maldivian Lacquerware

What they are: These are intricately crafted wooden items such as bowls, trays, and boxes, typically decorated with vibrant patterns found in the natural environment, including flowers and marine life. Moreover, they are a traditionally Maldivian art form that showcases the island's colours and takes inspiration from the surrounding sea and lush flora.

What they mean: Lacquerware is drenched in the Maldivians' deep connection to nature and their heritage. Their craftsmanship is passed down through generations and supports the conservation of national art forms.

Tropical Fruit Jam and Honey

What they are: Jams made from tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and banana, as well as honey harvested from local bees. These products offer a taste of the Maldives’ rich agricultural bounty and are made with care from fresh, locally grown ingredients.

What they mean: By buying these products, you support the local farming industry, which is heavily vulnerable to climate change.

Maldivian Sarongs

What they are: A traditional piece of clothing worn by both men and women, generally made from cotton or silk and adorned with fun patterns. It's very well known that sarongs are a staple in many South Asian cultures, reflecting the relaxed, tropical lifestyle of the subcontinent's spirit.

What they mean: The use of natural materials in making sarongs ties into the Maldives' collective respect for their limited natural resources, and it’s a practical yet culturally rich souvenir.

Handmade Jewelry

What they are: Jewellery from shells, coral, and other local materials like coconut and pearls. The Maldives’ marine life is world-renowned for its prosperity, and the beautiful underwater ecosystem inspires this jewellery, showcasing the Maldivians' love for their home and her resources.  

What they mean: When one buys coral-based jewellery, it aids in the longevity of the island's efforts for self-preservation.

Baskets and Mats

What they are: Baskets, mats and bags made from palm leaves found in the Maldives and are handwoven—because of their use, lightweight and often traditional Maldivian designs.

What they mean: Using palm leaves is eco-friendly and shows guests how to use the island’s resources, a perfect example of the Maldive's innovation in conservation.

Coconut Shell Products

What they are: A range of products made from coconut shells, including cups, bowls, and decorative items. Around the island, coconuts are a vital part of Maldivian life, and crafting from coconut shells is both practical and historically proven to be durable.

What they are: Practically, coconut shell products embody the spirit of sustainability, as they make use of every part of the coconut, a symbol of the Maldives' resourcefulness.

Fish and Marine Life Art

What they are: Playful and atmospheric paintings, sculptures, and carvings depicting marine life, including many species of fish, turtles, and coral. The Indian Ocean is known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine species, and the Maldives' pristine location in it makes this art a tribute to the underwater world.

What they mean: These distinctive art pieces celebrate the rich marine ecosystem of the Maldives, which is central to the nation’s identity. Moreover, by supporting this art, guests help raise awareness of the importance of ocean conservation.

Traditional Dhoni Model

What they mean: Wonderful miniature models of the traditional Maldivian fishing boat, the Dhoni, made from wood or other materials. The Dhoni is integral to Maldivian culture as per its use for fishing, transportation, and leisure.

What they Mean: The Dhoni represents the Maldivians' intersectionality on the sea and their maritime heritage. It’s a reminder of the country's integral connection to the ocean.