New Hospitality Group SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS to Open Six Resorts in the Maldives Over Six Years

The operator’s first luxury and ultra-luxury lifestyle resorts will open in South Malé Atoll in 2025 and 2026.

India (November 2024) – SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS is poised to transform hospitality in the Maldives. Co-founder & CEO Laith Pharaon has launched the company to craft a fresh, new approach that’s based on intuitive service, simple-yet-artistic design, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Officially announced today, the company has embarked on its first development phase of six resorts. The first two will open in South Malé Atoll in 2025 and 2026. Each of the individually branded properties will offer a completely unique stay, but all will be united in their shared philosophy of giving guests spectacular stays that are customised to their lifestyles.

SIX & SIX’s guest-centric approach goes beyond the levels of personalisation seen in traditional resorts. Guests will have complete freedom over how they dine, explore, play, and relax. Expert health and nutrition specialists and personal trainers will create individualised wellness programmes, utilising state-of the-art facilities and techniques. This tailored approach to experiential travel will also include one-of-a-kind opportunities to connect with the Maldives’ stunning nature and rich culture. 

A leading figure in the lifestyle-hospitality space, Laith will lend his personal touch to the concepts, making each resort extremely distinctive within the Maldives. By doing away with the standardised touchpoints that are ubiquitous in the country, and instead focusing on unparalleled moments of awe, he will empower guests to experience the true, authentic beauty of the country.   

“Maldives is a place where natural luxury is at its best,” says Laith. “SIX & SIX, through its service culture and delivery, will elevate the guest journey. We will ensure that guests enjoy the ultimate luxuries: the time, the space, and the freedom to be themselves. By removing things that gets in the way, we can focus on delighting guests who already have it all.”

SIX & SIX’s first resort, RAH GILI MALDIVES, is perched on the edge of the South Malé Atoll beside an exclusive dolphin sanctuary where hundreds of the playful mammals gather during breeding season. On land, guests will indulge in a range of fine dining, one-off events, and cultural happenings. Opening Q4 2025, guests will be able to choose from the resort’s 74 pool villas, including 38 overwater, ranging from 120 to 200 square metres and 8m x 2.5m pools. Sleek design, whimsical surprises and buzzing social spaces will combine to create an exclusive haven for in-the-know globetrotters.

In 2026, SIX & SIX will open the epitome of island luxury—DHON MAAGA MALDIVES. Also in South Malé Atoll, the ultra-luxe hideaway will offer some of the Maldives’ most colossal and plush accommodations as 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom villas. Guests will be spoilt for choice from the 31 overwater and 25 beach villas ranging from 250 up to 400+ square metres and feature 16m x 4m pools, bathtubs inlaid with semi-precious gems, and zen courtyards. Private-jet transfers, an expansive wine cellar, state-of the-art spa and wellness facilities, and world-class restaurants will make the resort one of the most extravagant in the world. 

“All of our resorts will offer first-of-their kind experiences” says Director of Operations Marc Gussing. “The end-to-end journeys start before guests even arrive and are filled with touches designed for each individual. Our ambition is to be the go-to resort operator for the bon-vivants who demand customisation so that they can create their own, ideal story. After nearly 15 years in the country, I’m delighted to be a part of the company that will transform luxury hospitality in the Maldives.”

Born out of a deep love for the island nation, SIX & SIX will also take a leading role in protecting the Maldives’ environment and contributing to its society. Located on some of the country’s most pristine isles, SIX & SIX-managed resorts have extremely ambitious ESG targets, demonstrating the company’s deep commitment to holistic sustainability. Extensive use of solar-power, zero-waste to landfill, local produce support, reef rehabilitation, and community programmes will help to preserve the nation’s wondrous environment and way of life. 

Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa Earns Three Prestigious Nominations at World Travel Awards 2023

Nestled in the pristine northern Haa Alifu Atoll of the Maldives, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is the epitome of a luxury island sanctuary. This opulent all-suite resort is designed to cater to the discerning traveller who craves authentic luxury and utmost seclusion. 

This year has been an exciting time for the resort as it has received three prestigious nominations from the industry renowned World Travel Awards. Hideaway is proud to be in the running for the titles of Maldives Leading Honeymoon Resort 2023, Maldives Leading Beach Resort 2023, and Maldives Leading Luxury Island Resort 2023. These nominations are a testament to the resort's commitment to providing exceptional experiences for its guests.

These prestigious nominations come at a time when the resort has also just embarked on a thrilling journey, in introducing the ‘The Signature Collection at Hideaway’. A collection of ultra luxury residences built on the northern point of the island, away from the rest of the secluded villas, these epic residences are in a class of their own. Designed in absolute luxury, these spacious, multi-room residences come with special privileges adding to the already sophisticated package – a holiday fit for royalty. 

At Hideaway, sustainability is a core value that shapes everything. Our commitment to sustainability not only benefits the environment, but also enhances the guest experience, ensuring that every stay is memorable.

One of the highlights at Hideaway is the exquisite dining options. With a range of cuisines to choose from, including Asian Fusion and Mediterranean, there's something to please every palate. Indulge in a private beachfront dinner for two or savour the flavours of the Maldives at our world-class restaurants. Vastly talented Chefs who use the freshest, locally sourced ingredients to create dishes that are both delicious and sustainable. 

This idyllic island is the perfect retreat for honeymooners and couples seeking a blend of seclusion and adventure. With a select number of exclusive villas and residences nestled among lush vegetation and expansive beaches in the large private island, every guest is guaranteed privacy and tranquillity. Unwind in your own little piece of paradise, with the sounds of the ocean and the scent of tropical blooms as your backdrop.

In addition, the resort offers enchanting experiences for couples seeking romance. These include renewing vows on immaculate beaches, savouring candlelit beachside dinners, and indulging in exclusive getaways to a private island, reminiscent of Robinson Crusoe's tale. Just envision spending an entire day with your beloved on a serene private island, creating treasured memories and exploring together. At Hideaway, the team will go above and beyond to help create unparalleled once-in-a-lifetime experiences for both of you.

At the resort, every member of the family deserves a memorable vacation. That is where the Tender Hearts Kids Club come in - a place where children can learn, play, and make new friends from around the world.

Educational activities designed to spark curiosity and creativity, and fun-filled games and events will keep the little ones entertained all day long. Whether they're splashing around in the pool or exploring the island's natural wonders, the memories will last a lifetime.

This special sanctuary under the northern Maldivian skies offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa – your little piece of heaven. 

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru Ups the Arrival Ante

Introducing the new Flying Boxfish seaplane and The Island Café at Velana International Airport

Guests travelling to Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru this year will benefit from the island nation’s most elevated arrival experience, thanks to two superlative new additions: The Flying Boxfish seaplane and The Island Café – a Landaa haven located in the new Seaplane Terminal at Velana International Airport.

The Flying Boxfish is the second marine-inspired marvel to take to the Maldivian skies as part of Four Seasons private seaplane fleet, following the 2019 launch of its Picasso-inspired predecessor, The Flying Triggerfish.

With a bold yellow and black spotted livery, the new customised premium 10-seater DHC-6-300 Twin Otter Flying Boxfish is a striking option for private seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport to Landaa Giraavaru, a scenic 35-minute flight from Malé in the secluded Baa Atoll UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.

International arrivals can now experience Four Seasons service in The Island Café: a retreat with wrap-around balcony, revitalising dining options, areas for lounging, dining, resting, and refreshing, as well as a play area, and an observation telescope to watch the seaplanes take off and land.

The Island Café isn’t just an arrivals haven. As seaplanes only fly during daylight hours, late international departers can now take the last flight from Landaa and stay in The Island Café until their international check-in gate opens.

Visit Maldives | GM Forum ‘21 - Keynotes and Panel Discussions

GM Forum 2021 will feature three keynote speeches, two presentations and three panels’ discussions.

The first keynote will be given by Dr Abdulla Mausoom, Maldives Minister of Tourism, followed by a keynote from the general manager of Sheraton Maldives Fullmoon Resort & Spa, Emilio Fortini, and chairman, Marriott Business Council. The third feature will be done by Najib Khan, CEO of Ooredoo Maldives. 

The two presentations for GM Forum 2021 are ‘Training Needs Analysis of the Tourism Sector, by portrayal of Meery Project, Ministry of Higher Education, Maldives, and ‘Information driven Storytelling,’ by IDeaS Revenue Solutions (Singapore). 

For this year’s Forum, the panel discussions featured will be; ‘Trends in Destination Marketing,’ featuring Thoyyib Waheed, MD, MMPRC / Visit Maldives and Abdulla Ghiyas, Chair, PATA Maldives, and moderated by Sharaz Hafiz, deputy director, digital marketing and social media; Pulse Hotels & Resorts ‘Connectivity in the New Normal’, featuring Mohamed Mihad, MD, Island Aviation Services Limited and Ahmed Maumoon, deputy CEO, Manta Air, and moderated by Ibrahim Saleem Bandhu. The third panelwill be looking at ‘Human Resource Challenges’ which will feature representatives from the Maldives National University and Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT), and will be moderated by Vaibhav Garg, director for talent and culture, Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives.

GM Forum ‘21 will be at Paradise Island Resort scheduled for 23rd September. General managers and corporate hoteliers representing hospitality brands and properties operating in the Maldives are entitled for free delegates passes.

If you are a GM or a corporate hotelier wishing to attend, please register here. 

Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts Lands in the Maldives with Signature Glamourous European Spirit

The Paris-born Brand Brings a Touch of Nostalgia to the Famed Archipelago, Inviting Guests to Linger Longer and Savour the Good Life

Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands, along with Singaporean developer Chiu Teng Enterprises today announce the opening of Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa, marking the Paris-born brand’s debut in one of the world’s most captivating destinations. Located on Thilamaafushi, the southern pocket of Lhaviyani Atoll, the 141-villa resort celebrates the fabric of the Maldives, its people, nature and art, channeling its energy to uncover the charm of the destination through Le Méridien’s distinctive European-chic lens.

“With a nostalgic nod to the glamour of the French Riviera in the 1960s, Le Méridien inspires travellers to explore the world in style, savour the good life and enjoy experiences that offer something more than meets the eye,” said Jason Nuell, Senior Vice President, Premium Brands, Marriott International. “We are delighted to bring Le Méridien to this internationally desired destination, the perfect place for guests to step out of their daily routine and into a glamorous getaway where wandering sans agenda and lingering longer are encouraged.”

Spanning nine hectares, Thilamaafushi is defined as “island surrounded by vast lagoon” in Dhivehi, the local parlance of the Maldives. The natural island is an eco-conscious haven abundant with indigenous flora and fauna, enveloped by a shimmering lagoon and coral reefs bursting with vibrant marine life, including pods of Manta Rays and turtles. Guests can easily access the resort by a 35-minute seaplane journey north of Velana (MLE) International Airport, Malé.

“We look forward to welcoming guests to unlock the sights, sounds and aromas of the destination, showcasing matchless hospitality and enriching experiences that bring to life the Maldives through Le Méridien’s distinct European-lens,” said Nilesh Singh, General Manager, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa. “Along with Le Méridien’s focus on timeless midcentury design and signature brand programmes, guests are invited to savour the moment and delight in the discovery of everything the resort has to offer.”

Visit Maldives | Kuda Villingili Resort open doors in the Maldives

The total investment for the Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives is INR 1000 crore.

MFAR Hotels & Resorts Private Limited announced the launch of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives. The inaugural function was conducted in the presence of the resort’s first official guest, Sunjay Sudhir, High Commissioner of India to the Maldives. The resort is located amidst a sprawling 40-acre island in North Malé Atoll; a 30-minute speedboat rides away from Velana International Airport (MLE), making it one of the most accessible resorts in the Maldives. The total investment for the Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives is INR 1000 crore. MFAR has also acquired an island of INR 20 acres in the Maldives for development in the immediate future.

The resort features 59 exquisite beach villas including luxurious penthouses and 36 water villas with an option of private swimming pools. This idyllic haven, inspired by the sprawling nature of the Maldives perfectly balances a sense of togetherness and inclusivity with privacy and independence. It is a slice of paradise that embraces and celebrates the diversity of cultural expressions perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, or traveling groups.

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives also offers the choice of three diverse dining venues to its guests: The Beach Club, a South American take on the classic beach menu, the resort’s signature dining establishment The Restaurant that serves fresh, handcrafted gourmet food, and The Hawkers, an upscale dining venue with three distinct restaurants, Spice, East, and Med, that serve mouth-watering Indian-Arabic, Thai-Japanese, and Italian-Mediterranean fusion street food respectively, through each restaurant’s open kitchens.


“From island excursions to stellar surfing, from stargazing to wildlife encounters, from sandbank dining to big game fishing, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives will never be in shortage of exciting activities for our guests,” said Dr. P Mohamed Ali (Galfar), Chairman and Founder of MFAR group of companies.

“This much-awaited property was delivered within the promised time to our beloved guests. Experience the best Maldives can offer with our most convenient, comfortable, safe, and hassle-free stay,” said Abdul Basheer, Director of MFAR group of companies.

Other hospitality projects by MFAR Hotels & Resorts include Le Méridien Kochi & The International Convention Centre in Kochi, The Westin Chennai, and The Radisson Collection by Hormuz Grand, Muscat, Oman. MFAR has also acquired land in Sri Lanka for the development of a beach resort. The resort promises its guests state-of-the-art food & accommodation facilities and is already being dubbed as one of the best resorts to stay in the Maldives.

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Experience Maldivian traditions at Heritance Aarah

he delightful Heritance Aarah with its powder-white beaches, swaying palm trees and crystal-clear turquoise water is located in Raa Atoll, a 40-minute seaplane ride from Malé.

Offering the perfect combination of exclusivity and comfort, Heritance Aarah offers luxury with a touch of Maldivian tradition. Guests are greeted with a traditional Maldivian dance and one of the leading restaurants on the property offers a fusion of Maldivian and Sri Lankan cuisine. The villas are designed and built using local Maldivian and modern architectural techniques and the resort even has a replica of a Maldivian village on the property to provide guests an overview of life in the Maldives.   

The resort offers a premium all-inclusive holiday plan which is currently being offered at a 45 per cent discount and includes seaplane transfers from Male (that cost approximately $500 per person). 

Opened in December 2018, Heritance Aarah is the first resort in Maldives from the Sri Lankan luxury brand Aitken Spence Hotels and Resorts. It offers an excellent choice of dining with six restaurants and four bars and top-notch facilities including the Maldives’ first medi-spa, making it ideal for honeymooners, families and group of friends. Its range of accommodation consists of 150 villas including 26 intimate luxury duplex ocean suites, 56 sunset ocean villas and 68 land villas.

In 2019 Heritance Aarah became the first property in the Maldives to receive the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Gold certification. It is committed to sustainability and works diligently to reduce the environmental impact of the hotel. For instance, it is a plastic-free zone and even the toothbrushes in the bathroom are made of bamboo.   

What makes the Heritance Aarah stand out is its service. Each villa comes with its own personal butler who is responsible for your comfort during your stay. From driving you around the resort in a battery-powered buggy to making reservations at various restaurants to booking your excursions, your butler is your genie, with your every wish being his command.  

The restaurant staff right from the maître de to the waiting staff to the team of chefs and bartenders is exceptional, making each visit to any of the six restaurants memorable. 

Puverel to lead Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

Conrad Maldives Rangali Island has announced the appointment of Carla Puverel to the role of general manager. She will take up leadership of the twin-island resort, featuring 151 luxury beach and over-water villas, immediately.

The property is part of Conrad Hotels & Resorts, a luxury brand from Hilton. Puverel most recently served as general manager of the Anantara Peace Haven Tangalle Resort in Sri Lanka.

Puverel said: “I am very pleased to be joining the Hilton family to lead the charge at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island.

Source

Seaside Finolhu to reopen on Oct 1 after major upgrade

Key Take Away

Seaside Finolhu is set to reopen its doors to visitors on October 1 after completing its highly anticipated transformation project. This keenly anticipated transformation covers guest villas, restaurants, public areas, and a state-of-the-art indoor golf studio.

In line with the resort upgrades, Finolhu will also introduce the new names and concepts for its four restaurants and spa. Translated as “sandbank”, Finolhu is one of the finest island resorts located in the UNESCO-protected Baa atoll.

The resort also encourages its valued guests to continue sharing their memorable #SeasideFinolhu stories on social media.

For More Information Click Below :

maldives.net.mv/39631/seaside-finolhu-to-reopen-on-oct-1-after-major-upgrade/

Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts To Launch Ozen Reserve Vittaveli in October 2020

Key Take Away

The young and successful Indian Ocean hospitality group, Atmosphere Hotels & Resorts, has announced the launch of Ozen Reserve Vittaveli in South Male Atoll, Maldives; establishing its uber-luxe brand – The Ozen Collection. The resort will debut in October 2020.

The jewel of the crown, “Royal Reserve”, will offer 3,500 square meters of unmatched luxury and elegant living for a blissfully immersive stay.

 Ozen Tangalle takes the brand to the south coast of Sri Lanka and is scheduled to be launched in 2022.

For More Information Click Below:

www.traveltrademaldives.com/atmosphere-hotels-resorts-to-launch-ozen-reserve-vittaveli-in-october-2020/

Maldives brings forward reopening date to July

Key Take Away

"We are planning to reopen our borders for visitors in July 2020," read an official statement issued by the Ministry of Tourism on May 30.

To ensure safety, the government says it is issuing a "Safe Tourism License" to accredit tourist facilities that abide by government legislation and specific safety requirements like having a certified medic on call and holding an "adequate stock" of personal protection equipment.

Travelers will also need to take steps. They'll be required to present a medical certificate confirming proof of a negative Covid-19 test taken at least 14 days before they arrive.

For More Information

www-cnn-com.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.cnn.com/travel/amp/maldives-reopening-july/index.html

Vakkaru Maldives Appoints Iain McCormack As General Manager

Key Take Away

Vakkaru Maldives has announced the appointment of Iain McCormack as its new General Manager. A hotel management graduate of Southampton College, Iain started his career path working at many renowned hotels with over 36 years in the hospitality business and a career

With Iain’s rich multi-faceted experience in resorts worldwide and his passion for top-notch guest services, he will be a key player in enriching the stellar reputation of the Vakkaru brand.

For More Information

www.traveltrademaldives.com/vakkaru-maldives-appoints-iain-mccormack-as-general-manager/

Get Ready to Experience “Island Homes” in Maldives Post Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused disruptions in almost every human activity on the planet. At the moment travelling anywhere is out of the question for most, even though some countries are cautiously opening their borders

Maldives is ready to offer a fresh concept that you really should experience: Island Homes. The thought of being cloistered in a luxurious home with every comfort available while away from home is definitely something many travelers around the world are yearning to experience for themselves once Maldives is open for business post pandemic.

Most Island Homes are located in a contained private area providing the ultimate in privacy with many of the luxuries you’d usually expect to find at a Maldivian resort.

One of the first such properties to pop up in Maldives is the luxurious Veli Vilaa located in Dhiffushi Island.The property has such a calming and magical effect on the senses that guests often despair having to leave. One Serbian family, who arrived before the pandemic leading to  lockdowns all over the world, chose to extend their stay to six weeks once they realized they’d rather stay and experience the stress-free island life, cocooned and sheltered from the woes of the world at large for as long as possible, before heading back.

Maldives Conducts Webinars For Indian Market, Commences Campaign With Kayak

Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has conducted webinars for travel trade in India and  has commenced a campaign with an Indian travel agency Kayak from today till 22nd May 2020.In an effort to inspire travelers to keep dreaming about the destination.

India is one of the key source markets likely to be amongst the top post-pandemic tourists to the Maldives when traveling resumes once again. In January 2020, there were 13,846 tourist arrivals from this market which was a 19% increase when compared to the same period from last year.

These sessions were held to train potential travel agencies and tour operators to yield the maximum business and achieve a greater reach in the market. The webinars by MMPRC also aim to lead engagement in promoting the Maldives and answer destination FAQs over the course of the lockdown.

Till date, these webinars have reached over 302 pax from tour operators and travel agents in India such as Ease My Trip, SOTC Travel Ltd, Travel Triangle and Vacations Exotica to name a few.

The joint campaign with Kayak will have ads depicting ‘Visit Maldives…later’ displayed throughout the website. The messaging in the campaign is intended to encourage visitors to travel to the Maldives once the pandemic has been overcome.

LUX* Resorts & Hotels Shows Appreciation to Healthcare Professionals in Maldives with Complimentary Stay

In appreciation of the Maldivian medical professionals’ selfless dedication in fighting on the frontline during this challenging time, LUX* Resorts & Hotels in the Maldives shows their gratitude to the local healthcare workers by giving a complimentary two-night stay on full board at either LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas or LUX* North Malé Atoll Resort & Villas, Maldives.

The public can pay tribute to a healthcare professional who had touched their life during this unprecedented crisis by sharing their stories of appreciation on their own Facebook profile, along with the hashtags #CollectivelyWeCare and #CollectivelyWeCareLSAA or #CollectivelyWeCareLNMA, including a picture of the medical worker and tagging the resort they wish to win a stay in for their nominee.

The post with the most likes will enable the nominated healthcare worker to redeem his or her stay for two adults on full board basis including domestic transfers, as soon as accessibility is re-established to the respective resorts. This campaign will end on 3 June 2020.

Additionally, LUX* Resorts & Hotels will honour these two Healthcare Heroes by planting a coconut tree on World Environment Day (5 June) in their names to serve as permanent reminders of their service rendered during this unprecedented time.

No gesture is enough to repay their selfless acts of service, however, we wish to do our bit to provide them with a well-deserved holiday so they can recuperate and rest,” said John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* North Malé Atoll Resort & Villas.

With emotional ‘farewell’, Maldives’ first resort takes break amidst coronavirus outbreak

The coronavirus pandemic has hit the Maldivian economy hard, as travel restrictions and other preventive measures affect the country’s lucrative tourism industry, which contributes the bulk of the island nation’s state revenue and foreign reserves.

Before the pandemic, the government had been bullish about tourism prospects, targeting two million, high-spending holidaymakers this year after last year’s record 1.7 million.

Tourist arrivals saw a year-over-year decline of 22.8 per cent in the first 10 days of March. With arrival numbers falling, several resorts across the Maldives are being closed.

One notable resort that is suspending its operations is Kurumba Maldives, the very first resort that introduced tourism to the Maldives and whose opening in 1972 kicked off the island nation’s transformation from one of the world’s poorest countries to a world-class holiday destination favoured by the rich and famous.

JA Manafaru Maldives transforms into all-inclusive resort

JA Manafaru Maldives has become an exclusive all-inclusive resort, offering even more value to guests visiting the paradise island destination.

Seven scenic dining destinations provide a wealth of options with traditional Indian Ocean cuisine, international fare and seafood feasts all available on the all-inclusive plan. The stunning signature restaurant, White Orchid, sits in the middle of the ocean treating guests to balmy breezes as they indulge in award-winning Asian fare.

Guests can also enjoy a wide range of exclusively premium beverages across multiple venues including Horizon Lounge with its ocean views, Andiamo Bistro and Pool with its lush green backdrop and Ocean Grill, beachfront dining under the stars.

There is also an award-winning Calm Spa Sanctuary, offering Ayurveda, aromatherapy and wellness journeys for the soul. To keep all ages entertained, there are both Kids and Teens Clubs.

With a five-star rating and TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2019, JA Manafaru is one of the Indian Ocean’s most sought-after destinations and a popular choice for couples and families — classified as a “Legend” hotel by Preferred Hotels & Resorts — extraordinary properties in the world’s most remarkable destinations.