Naifaru

Naifaru

Residential Island Code: Lh

About Naifaru

Naifaru is the capital of Lhaviyani Atoll and the most populous island, with 5,722 registered residents recorded in 2023. It is renowned for its commercial fishing sector and extensive use of mechanized vessels. Despite its small size of 0.56 km², the island has a dense urban layout and a fully developed port. Naifaru is also a center for retail trade, government administration, and marine services. The reef surrounding the island supports tuna bait fisheries and is managed for sustainability. Infrastructure includes a regional hospital, multiple schools, utility services, and island council facilities. Due to high population density, vegetation is minimal, though cultivated coconut palms and ornamental trees are present in public spaces. Naifaru maintains cold storage and fish packing operations, with exports handled by sea transport. The island has played a central role in regional governance since the mid-20th century and remains Lhaviyani’s economic and administrative core.

Island Information

Geographic

Area
58.29 hectares
Nearest Island
Madivaru (1.60 km)

Coordinates: 5.445225, 73.365165

Administrative

Island Name
Naifaru
Island Code
Lh
Atoll
Faadhippolhu
Island Type
Residential Island
Regulating Authority
Council
Primary Agency
Council

Environmental Sites

Documented ecosystems and environmental sites on Naifaru.

Kuredhi Kandhuolhi

Documented

Marine Protected Area (MPA)

Kuredhi Kandhuolhi, also known as Kurendhu Express, is a designated Marine Protected Area located near Naifaru in Lhaviyani Atoll. This site is known for strong currents that attract a variety of pelagic species, including sharks and tuna. Its reef structure supports vibrant coral and marine life, making it valuable for ecological conservation and a notable diving site.

5.4482, 73.3715 View Details

Kuredhi Kandhuolhi (Kurendhu Express)

Documented

Marine Protected Area / Protected Island / Sandbank

Located near Naifaru, the Senhihifushi and Huraidhoo area is a designated Marine Protected Area encompassing both island and sandbank features. The site includes coastal ecosystems with fringing reefs and lagoon systems that support biodiversity such as nesting seabirds and coral-associated fish. Its protected status aims to conserve these habitats and the surrounding marine environment.

5.4433, 73.3670 View Details

Senhihifushi & Huraidhoo Region

Documented

Marine Protected Area / Protected Island / Sandbank

This protected area near Naifaru includes the uninhabited islands of Senhihifushi and Huraidhoo and adjacent sandbanks. The region features shallow lagoons, seagrass beds, and coral habitats that support marine life such as reef fish, rays, and sea turtles. As a Marine Protected Area, it contributes to ecosystem conservation while maintaining cultural and ecological value for surrounding communities.

5.4414, 73.3827 View Details

Vavvaru

Documented

Marine Protected Area / Protected Island / Sandbank

Vavvaru is a small uninhabited island designated as a Marine Protected Area. Surrounded by sandbanks and vibrant coral reefs, it supports a variety of marine life including reef fish, crustaceans, and sea birds. The surrounding lagoon and reef flat are ecologically significant and offer shelter for juvenile marine species. Its proximity to Naifaru makes it accessible for environmental monitoring and conservation efforts.

5.4503, 73.3655 View Details

Dhashugirifinolhu (Dhashugiri)

Documented

Terrestrial

Dhashugiri is a protected island and sandbank near Naifaru, within Lhaviyani Atoll. Though uninhabited, it is ecologically valuable, featuring sandy shores and coastal vegetation that support nesting seabirds. The surrounding shallow lagoon and reef flat provide a calm marine environment, essential for coral growth and fish nurseries. Its proximity to inhabited islands increases its relevance for local environmental awareness and conservation.

5.4464, 73.3717 View Details

Location on Map