History of Dharavandhoo

Foundation and First Mentions

The history of the settlement of Dharavandhoo island is rooted in deep antiquity. As is the case with many islands in the archipelago, the exact date of the settlement's foundation is not recorded in written sources. However, it is known that Baa Atoll has been inhabited for many centuries, serving as a home for seafarers and fishermen long before the development of modern tourism in the Maldives.

Key Development Factors

The formation of the settlement and its development were determined by several important factors:

• Geographical Location: The island is located in the very heart of Baa Atoll, which is now a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Its convenient location and the presence of a protected lagoon facilitated the safe approach of boats.
• Natural Resources: Proximity to waters rich in fish and the famous Hanifaru Bay provided residents with a stable source of food, which was critical for the survival of an isolated community.
• Fertile Soil: Unlike many sandbanks, Dharavandhoo possesses a sufficient layer of soil for agriculture, allowing for the cultivation of coconut palms and fruit crops.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

In the early period, the island's economy was built entirely on subsistence exchange and traditional crafts. The main occupation for men was tuna fishing, while women were engaged in fish processing and making products from coconut fibre (coir)—durable ropes and mats that were highly valued in the region.

The island's culture was formed in close connection with the sea and Islamic traditions, which have been rooted in the archipelago since the 12th century. The island's isolation contributed to the creation of a close-knit community with strong traditions of mutual aid and oral folklore.

Key Dates in the Island's History

• 1153: Adoption of Islam in the archipelago, defining the religious and cultural traditions that local residents adhere to this day.
• Mid-20th Century: The island establishes itself as an important centre for fishing and crafts in Baa Atoll, known for its skilled artisans.
• 2009: The government amends legislation, allowing the development of local tourism on inhabited islands.
• June 2011: The entire Baa Atoll receives UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, attracting the attention of the global community to the region.
• 17 October 2012: The domestic airport of Dharavandhoo is solemnly opened, ensuring fast and comfortable connection with the capital.
• 2013: The first guesthouses oriented towards receiving international tourists begin to open on the island.
• Present Time: The island has become one of the most popular places for those visiting the Maldives for snorkelling with manta rays in the famous Hanifaru Bay.

Stages of Development and Transformation

The evolution of Dharavandhoo island represents a journey from a secluded fishing community to a key transport and tourism hub in the region. Over the past decades, fundamental changes have occurred here, shaping the modern appearance of the settlement.

• Traditional Economic Base: For centuries, the town's life was built around fishing and agriculture. These industries determined not only employment but also the urban structure, oriented towards the coastal zone and the port.
• UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Status (2011): The inclusion of Baa Atoll in the World Heritage list became a catalyst for change. This event reoriented the development vector towards nature conservation and eco-tourism, increasing the local community's responsibility for the environment.
• Launch of Domestic Airport (2012): The opening of the air harbour became a major urban planning and economic breakthrough. The island turned into the logistics centre for the entire atoll, ensuring a stable flow of cargo and passengers, which gave a powerful impulse to small businesses.
• Guesthouse Business Boom: With the appearance of the first guesthouses, the island's economy diversified. Local residents began investing massively in the hospitality sector, leading to the renovation of housing stock and the creation of new jobs in service, restaurants, and excursion management.
• Infrastructure Modernisation: The growth of the resort's popularity required improvements in the quality of life. Water supply and energy systems were upgraded, internet coverage was expanded, and public beaches were landscaped, making the stay on the island comfortable for both tourists and residents.
• Cultural Transformation: Having become a popular destination for those visiting the Maldives for snorkelling with manta rays, the town has become more open to the world. Interaction with travellers stimulated the learning of foreign languages and the adaptation of service to international standards while preserving Islamic traditions.

Architectural Appearance and Development Stages

The urban structure of Dharavandhoo island is distinguished by simplicity and functionality, characteristic of small settlements in the atolls. Historically, development formed from the coastline inland, creating a clear grid of streets. In the island's architecture, an evolution from the use of natural materials to modern durable structures is clearly traceable, stimulated by the development of tourism.

Traditional Style and Coral Architecture

In past eras, the island's architecture was entirely subordinate to available resources and climatic conditions. This period left its mark on old buildings and construction methods.

• Coral Masonry: Historical buildings were erected from carved coral blocks (hirigaa). This material provided excellent thermoregulation, keeping the interiors cool. Today, coral mining is prohibited, so such walls remain only in the oldest houses and mosques.
• Organic Materials: Traditionally, coconut palm wood was used for frames and woven palm leaves for roofing. Over time, these eco-friendly but short-lived materials were replaced by slate and galvanised iron.

Modern Development and Tourism Influence

Since the beginning of the 21st century, and especially after the opening of the airport, the island's appearance has undergone significant changes. Modest single-storey dwellings have been replaced by more substantial structures.

• Functional Style: The basis of the housing stock today consists of concrete houses of 1–2 storeys with flat roof terraces. Facades are often painted in bright colours—turquoise, pink, or light green, which is typical for the Maldives.
• Hospitality Architecture: The boom in guesthouses brought elements of modern resort style. Buildings of 3–4 storeys appeared with panoramic glazing, balconies, and landscaped courtyards styled as tropical gardens.

Iconic Structures and Districts

Despite the compact size of the island, several key zones stand out, shaping its architectural landscape:

• Dharavandhoo Airport: Occupies a significant part of the eastern tip of the island. The terminal building is executed in a modern utilitarian style and serves as the main gateway to Baa Atoll.
• Harbour Area: The social and commercial centre of the settlement. Shops and cafes are concentrated here, and the architecture represents a mix of administrative buildings and technical port structures.
• Island Mosques: Religious structures stand out against the general background with their minarets and domes, combining the canons of Islamic architecture with local decorative traditions.

Prominent Figures and Leaders

Although Dharavandhoo is a small island, its history and modern development are closely linked with the names of state officials who contributed to transforming the settlement into an important transport hub, as well as local leaders managing community life.

• Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik
  President of the Republic of Maldives (2012–2013)
  He played a key role in the recent history of the island. In October 2012, he officially opened Dharavandhoo Airport, which became a turning point in the economic development of the entire Baa Atoll and made the island the main logistics centre of the region.
• Ahmed Rasheed
  President of the Island Council (during the airport opening period)
  He led the local administration during the period of large-scale infrastructure transformation. He took an active part in the airport opening ceremony and represented the interests of residents during the implementation of this strategic project.
• Ali Samih
  President of the Island Council (contemporary period)
  The current head of local self-government. Under his leadership, projects are being implemented for landscaping, supporting eco-tourism, and maintaining the island's status as part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
• Mauroof Zakir
  Member of the People's Majlis (Parliament)
  Representative of the Kendhoo constituency, which includes Dharavandhoo. He defends the interests of the islanders at the national level, facilitating the allocation of budget funds for the development of healthcare and education in the region.
• Ahmed Thasmeen Ali
  Politician, former Speaker of Parliament
  An influential political figure who represented Baa Atoll for a long time. His activities contributed to attracting investment to the region and developing tourism infrastructure in the Maldives, which indirectly influenced the growth of Dharavandhoo's popularity.