Hulhumale | Maldives

Hulhumalé is an artificial island located in the Malé Atoll, just 8 kilometers (5 miles) north of Malé, the capital of the Maldives. It is part of the Malé metropolitan area and has been developed to address the growing population and urbanization challenges faced by Malé. The island is a symbol of modern urban planning and sustainable development, designed to provide housing, infrastructure, and facilities for the Maldives' increasing population.

Geography and Size

• Area: Hulhumalé spans an area of about 4.3 square kilometers (1.7 square miles), with future expansion projects aimed at increasing its size further.
• Location: Situated to the northeast of the capital, the island is close to Malé International Airport, which makes it well-connected to both the capital and international destinations.
• Man-Made Island: Hulhumalé was created through land reclamation projects, beginning in the early 2000s. The island was designed to offer additional living space and alleviate overcrowding in Malé.

Population and Demographics

Hulhumalé was primarily developed to accommodate the increasing population of the Maldives, as Malé became too congested. Over the years, Hulhumalé has grown in terms of infrastructure and housing, attracting residents from Malé and other islands.

• Population: As of recent estimates, the population of Hulhumalé is around 50,000 to 60,000 residents, and the island is expected to accommodate hundreds of thousands in the future as its development continues.
• Housing: The island includes various residential areas, ranging from affordable housing projects to luxury apartments, and is designed to serve as a modern urban environment for people from all walks of life.

Urban Development and Infrastructure

Hulhumalé is often described as a model for sustainable development in the Maldives, as it integrates green technologies, modern urban planning, and environmental sustainability. The island’s development is planned in phases, with the first phase completed and several expansion projects underway.

• Residential Areas: Hulhumalé offers a range of housing options, including multi-story apartment complexes, townhouses, and villas. The island is designed to be a self-sufficient community with schools, hospitals, and recreational spaces.
• Road Network: The island is equipped with a modern road network, and the introduction of public buses and taxis has made transportation easy for its residents and visitors. The island is also accessible by ferries from Malé.
• Utilities: Hulhumalé has a sewage system, clean water supply, and electricity, with infrastructure improvements being made regularly to meet the demands of the growing population.
• Hulhumalé Central Park: A large green space in the center of the island, designed to provide residents with recreational and leisure activities. The park is part of the island's commitment to environmental sustainability and green living.

Environmental Sustainability

Given the Maldives' vulnerability to climate change and rising sea levels, Hulhumalé’s development has focused on incorporating sustainable and eco-friendly features. The island is designed to be resilient to these challenges, with initiatives aimed at reducing its environmental footprint.

• Coastal Protection: Hulhumalé has been designed with breakwaters and sea walls to protect it from storm surges and erosion. These measures are vital for ensuring the island’s long-term viability in the face of climate change.
• Green Spaces: The island features a number of parks, gardens, and green rooftops, promoting environmental sustainability. The development of Hulhumalé prioritizes green living and community-focused spaces to improve quality of life.
• Renewable Energy: Efforts are being made to incorporate solar power and other renewable energy sources into the island’s energy grid to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Key Landmarks and Features

Though still growing, Hulhumalé already boasts a number of key landmarks and features that make it an attractive destination for residents and visitors alike:

1. Hulhumalé Beach: A man-made beach offering scenic views of the Indian Ocean, where residents and tourists can relax, swim, and engage in water sports.
2. Hulhumalé Mosque: A beautiful mosque located in the center of Hulhumalé, offering prayer facilities for the island’s growing population.
3. Hulhumalé Ferry Terminal: The ferry terminal connects Hulhumalé with Malé and other nearby islands, making it an important transportation hub.
4. Hulhumalé Central Park: A large green space that serves as a recreational area for families and a place for social gatherings and events.
5. Hulhumalé Marina: A marina catering to yachts and boats, providing a space for water sports, fishing, and leisure activities.

Economic and Commercial Development

Hulhumalé has developed into an important commercial center for the Maldives. The government has established policies to attract businesses and industries to the island, making it a key part of the country’s economic development strategy.

• Retail and Shopping: The island has growing retail infrastructure, with shopping malls, stores, and restaurants catering to both residents and tourists. The establishment of business districts and offices has transformed the island into a bustling urban area.
• Healthcare and Education: Hulhumalé is equipped with healthcare facilities, including a modern hospital, and has schools, including both public and private institutions, making it a comprehensive area for residents to live, work, and raise families.
• Tourism: While Hulhumalé is more residential in character compared to Malé, it has increasingly become a base for visitors who wish to explore the capital and surrounding areas. The island's hotels, restaurants, and recreational facilities make it an appealing option for visitors looking for a quieter, more local experience.

Transportation and Accessibility

Hulhumalé is well connected to both the capital, Malé, and the Maldives International Airport (Velana International Airport), which is just 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) away from Hulhumalé. Ferries and private boats are the main modes of transportation to and from the island, although the government is working to establish more public transport options for residents and visitors.

• Airport Connectivity: Hulhumalé is in close proximity to Maldives International Airport, making it an ideal location for both residents and tourists.
• Public Transport: The island has a growing network of public buses that makes commuting around the island efficient and convenient.

Future Development Plans

Hulhumalé is part of the Malé Urban Development Plan, which aims to create a more modern, sustainable, and balanced urban environment in the Maldives. The island will continue to expand over the coming decades, with plans to:

• Increase Residential Capacity: With continued development, Hulhumalé will accommodate a larger population, providing affordable and sustainable housing solutions.
• Infrastructure Expansion: New roads, bridges, and public spaces will be developed, with improvements to transport and utilities to meet the needs of the growing population.
• Green Development: Hulhumalé’s future plans include increasing its focus on environmental sustainability, incorporating more green spaces, renewable energy projects, and eco-friendly infrastructure.

Conclusion

Hulhumalé is a key part of the Maldives' future, offering a modern and sustainable alternative to the overcrowded capital, Malé. With its strategic location, commitment to environmental sustainability, and urban development, Hulhumalé is poised to become a major residential and commercial hub in the region, helping the Maldives address its urbanization challenges while providing a high quality of life for its residents.