Ukulhas Island

A lived-in island, shaped by the sea.

Ukulhas Island is a locally inhabited island in the North Ari Atoll, known for its cleanliness, environmental awareness, and calm residential atmosphere. Unlike private resort islands, Ukulhas offers a genuine view of Maldivian island life — where community, routine, and the sea exist side by side.

For travelers seeking authenticity with comfort, Ukulhas provides a grounded and welcoming setting.

An Island with Environmental Focus

Ukulhas is recognised nationally for its early adoption of organised waste management and island-wide sustainability practices. Environmental care is part of daily life here — visible in clean streets, managed waste systems, and community participation rather than symbolic initiatives.

Guests often notice the difference immediately: a sense of order, pride, and shared responsibility.

Daily Life on Ukulhas

Home to just over 1,500 residents, Ukulhas maintains a calm and walkable scale. Life follows a steady rhythm shaped by fishing, prayer times, school routines, and the movement of the tides.

Ukulhas lagoon and beach in 2025, serene and natural

Ukulhas is well suited to guests who value simplicity and connection over nightlife or entertainment.

Visitors can expect:

A residential, low-rise island environment
Local cafés, shops, and community spaces
Quiet evenings and early mornings
A respectful, lived-in atmosphere

Beaches, Reef & Lagoon

Ukulhas features a wide, designated bikini beach with clear water and easy access from the village. Shore-access snorkeling is possible in several areas around the island, with conditions varying by season, tide, and weather.

Marine life sightings are part of the island’s natural environment and cannot be predicted or guaranteed, but the surrounding reef system supports regular exploration directly from shore.

Location within the Maldives

Ukulhas is located in the North Ari Atoll, an area known for its marine diversity and open-water channels. The island’s position allows for a balance between accessibility and separation — close enough for straightforward transfers, yet far enough to maintain a calm island feel.

a small island with a small island in the middle of the ocean

Getting to Ukulhas Island

Ukulhas is accessible from Velana International Airport via public ferry or speedboat. The team at Nala Veli provides guidance and coordination support to help guests plan their arrival smoothly.

Scheduled Speedboat Transfers

Speedboat services operate daily between Malé and Ukulhas, with a travel time of approximately 90 minutes. This is the most commonly used option for guests.

Public Ferry Services

Public ferries operate on fixed days with longer travel times. This option suits travelers with flexible schedules who prefer a slower journey.

Private Speedboat Transfers

Private speedboat transfers can be arranged upon request, offering flexibility in departure time and reduced travel duration.

All transfers are operated by licensed third-party providers and remain subject to weather and sea conditions.

Ukulhas Island is ideal for travelers who appreciate calm surroundings, authentic local life, and close connection to the sea. It may not suit those seeking nightlife, resort-style entertainment, or private-island seclusion.

For guests aligned with its rhythm, Ukulhas offers a rewarding and genuine Maldivian experience.

Plan Your Stay on Ukulhas Island