Dhidhdhoo

Dhiddhoo serves as the administrative capital of Haa Alif Atoll and is the second most populated island in the northern Maldives. Its name derives from the Dhivehi words meaning 'long place,' referencing its elongated shape stretching nearly 2 kilometers along the atoll rim. The island houses government offices, courts, and regional services, making it a cultural and administrative hub for the atoll's 14 inhabited islands. Dhiddhoo is renowned for its traditional dhoni boatbuilding, where skilled craftsmen shape coconut timber into the elegant curved vessels essential for inter-island transport and fishing. Visitors can observe these techniques passed down through generations, explore local markets featuring fresh fish and tropical fruits, and experience authentic northern Maldivian community life. The island offers several guesthouses and serves as an excellent base for exploring the northern atolls.