Kulhudhuffushi

Kulhudhuffushi is the capital of Haa Dhaalu Atoll and is often described as the heart of the Maldives' northern region, sitting on Thiladhunmathi Atoll some 275 km from Malé. According to the 2022 census, 10,251 people live there, making it one of the larger and more populous islands outside the capital area. The island takes its name from its mangroves, known locally as Mashi Kulhi, for which it has long been recognised.

The island's history includes repeated damage from storms in 1812, 1819 and 1921, and a particularly severe storm known as Keylakunu that is said to have halved the population at the time. Despite this, Kulhudhuffushi built a reputation for resilience and hard work, and its people were noted for courage during past conflicts. In the 1940s, residents led a rebellion across Thiladhunmathi Atoll against the Malé government over what they saw as unfair treatment of the north.

Kulhudhuffushi functions as the economic hub of the northern Maldives. Its Saturday Market on Bandaara Road draws islanders from across Thiladhunmathi for trade in local produce and food, and the island is also known for traditional occupations such as shark fishing, blacksmithing, coir rope making, boatbuilding and work aboard cargo vessels. Regionally, it is served by an A-category hospital and has five schools.

Sport plays a notable role in local life: football is the most widely played game, and the island has more quality football grounds than anywhere else in the Maldives bar Malé, having hosted President's Cup group matches in 2015. Kulhudhuffushi is also regarded as the country's basketball stronghold, and produced Olympic sprinter Azneem Ahmed, who competed in the 100 metres at the 2012 London Games.