Ukulhas Island Development: What Tourists Need to Know About Ongoing Construction

If you’re planning a trip to the Maldives and considering a stay on a local island, it’s important to understand the current state of Ukulhas Island development. In 2025, the island is undergoing a major phase of construction—rebuilding roads, upgrading drainage systems, and expanding guesthouse infrastructure. While these improvements are designed to enhance island life and tourism in the long run, they may temporarily impact parts of the visitor experience. Here's what you should know before you arrive.

Why Is Ukulhas Under Construction Right Now?

If you’re researching a stay in Ukulhas, you may have come across photos or updates showing construction around the island — particularly roadwork and new buildings. That’s not a mistake, and it’s not something the island is trying to hide.

In 2025, Ukulhas Island is actively developing its infrastructure to solve long-standing problems caused by heavy rains and outdated roads. Most of the island’s major roads are currently being rebuilt with proper drainage, asphalt surfacing, and upgraded walkways.

The reason? In previous rainy seasons, homes and streets would flood, and water often seeped into houses. Families would spend hours draining water with pumps — sometimes even in the middle of the night under pouring rain.

The roads would become muddy, slippery, and hard to walk — especially for children, elders, and visitors. Tiles inside homes could loosen or break due to water damage.

What Kind of Construction Is Happening?

The biggest project right now is island-wide road redevelopment, managed by MTCC (Maldives Transport and Contracting Company). The project includes:

• 2.68 kilometers of paved roads

• A new stormwater drainage system

• Sidewalks and access ways built for long-term use

• Ongoing guesthouse and housing renovations

Beyond roads, you’ll also notice the construction of new guesthouses, hotels, and rebuilt homes. These upgrades aim to serve a growing number of travelers while improving life for the local community.

How Does It Affect Travelers?

It’s fair to ask: Will this ruin my stay?

Here’s what to realistically expect:

• No late-night noise: Construction noise is strictly regulated — no loud work after 11 PM.

• Peak season respect: During high season (December to April), heavy machinery work is minimized to protect guest experience.

• Beach and reef access remain open. All public beach areas, snorkeling points, and local restaurants continue to operate normally.

• Visual impact: You may walk past active roadwork or see materials near some guesthouses — but it’s part of a broader, temporary transformation.

Many travelers actually find the process fascinating — getting a glimpse into how a small Maldivian island self-develops while still welcoming tourists with warmth and hospitality.

Ukulhas Residents: Building for the Future

Ukulhas has long been known for its environmental focus and community cooperation. That spirit shows even during this intense phase of development.

When flooding gets serious, it’s not rare to see neighbors working together to install water pumps and manually drain streets — even in the rain. This shared responsibility is what keeps the island grounded, even during rapid modernization.

Locals understand the balance: preserving the island’s natural identity while building a future-ready infrastructure. They want tourists to enjoy the best version of Ukulhas — even if that means some dust and noise in the short term.

Why These Changes Matter (for You Too)

Whether you're a first-time guest or a returning traveler, these infrastructure upgrades will benefit you:

• Better roads = easier walking and biking

• Drainage = fewer travel disruptions during rain

• New guesthouses = more choice and better facilities

• Modernized homes = healthier island life

Ukulhas Island development is a sign of growth — but it’s not out of control. There’s no resort-style takeover or high-rise hotels. The island’s charm still lies in its reef, its simplicity, and the way locals wave to you in the street.

Planning a Trip During Construction: Should You Still Come?

• Yes — and here’s why.

  • The bikini beach is still pristine and untouched.

  • The house reef still teems with marine life.

  • Most construction zones are limited to inland areas and won’t disrupt your beach days or island walks.

  • The community continues to welcome guests — with respect, service, and open arms.

  If you’re sensitive to visual construction or noise, talk to your guesthouse before booking. They’ll tell you honestly what to expect. Many are already operating at full comfort with minimal impact.

Yes, Ukulhas is under construction. But it’s not chaos — it’s progress.

The island is investing in safer roads, better housing, and guest-ready infrastructure that benefits both locals and tourists. While you may see work underway, what’s not changing is the heart of Ukulhas: reef culture, clean beaches, warm smiles, and a strong sense of place.

Come with awareness, leave with appreciation.

Ukulhas Island Development: The Bottom Line