Business
Mövenpick Hotels debuts in Maldives with opening of Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives
Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts has debuted in Maldives with the opening on Thursday of Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives.
Nestled on a private island in the northern Noonu atoll, Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives promises serene seclusion and tropical tranquillity. The resort also showcases a series of unique architectural features and distinctive design touches that complement the soothing natural surroundings.
The resort was designed by the acclaimed architects from the Poland based company MOTIV, who used the private, uninhabited tropical island of Kuredhivaru as a blank canvas on which to create something aesthetically appealing and truly unique. Taking inspiration from the Maldives’ spectacular natural scenery, MOTIV designed a masterpiece that weaves seamlessly into the island environment, blurring the boundaries between innovative design, Maldivian heritage and Mother Nature.
Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives offers 105 luxury villas, all with their own private swimming pool.
The 30 Beach Pool Suites and three Beach Spa Pool Residences are surrounded by native trees and mature plants, providing privacy and shade. Each room features an amazing elevated deck that “floats” three metres above the private pool, offering endless ocean views.
Guests in each of the 72 Overwater Pool Villas will discover a huge glass floor in the hallway, which frames breathtaking displays of marine life underfoot. Each villa also features a private pool and a large outdoor deck with a hammock and direct access to the shimmering sea below. The roofs, inspired by central Asian culture, provide beautiful canopies that reflect ambient light into the rooms at night.
While designed as a destination for relaxing and rejuvenating escapes offering a high degree of privacy, the contemporary tropical resort combines comfort and style while featuring an array of onsite recreational facilities to entertain a wide range of guests, from honeymooners to adventurous families.
Rich in marine life and excellent diving opportunities, the waters surrounding the resort will play an integral role in its appeal through a variety of above and underwater experiences. The resort will feature a comprehensive dive centre, beach sports activity centre, exclusive guest-only superyacht, as well as a small scale marine research centre and private marina.
The first Marine National Park (MNP) in the Maldives, which consists of a group of nine uninhabited islands commonly known as Edu Faru, is approximately 15 minutes from the resort via speedboat. The popular Christmas Tree Rock and Orimas Thila dive sites are also an easy boat ride away.
Exquisite culinary experiences are a cornerstone of the Mövenpick experience and the new Maldivian resort will offer five unique dining venues. Amongst these are a welcoming all-day dining restaurant, a speciality restaurant with sunset views, a seafood restaurant, a grill bar and private dining room for special occasions.
Enticing wellness and recreational facilities will include a luxurious spa with 14 private treatment rooms. Other features include a tranquil yoga pavilion, a state of the art gym, water sports centre, volleyball and tennis courts. The resort will also have a business centre, library and retail boutique to further ensure guests enjoy a convenient and carefree stay.
Guests have the chance to book their dream holiday at Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives with special opening rates starting from just USD 577 per night inclusive of breakfast and taxes.
Bookings of three nights or more will also include an array of additional benefits, including USD100 resort credit per stay (valid for food and beverage, spa treatments, water sports and diving), plus an additional 20 percent discount at the Diving and Water Sports Centre, and a free room upgrade (subject to availability).
Now part of French multinational hotel group AccorHotels, Mövenpick Hotels & Resorts is one of the world’s most reputable upscale hotel management companies. Since it was established in 1973, the hospitality firm has expanded its international presence and today, manages 20,000-plus rooms in more than 82 hotels across Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.
A newcomer to the Maldives booming tourism industry, AccorHotels is on a major expansion drive, with three existing properties, including Fairmont Maldives Sirru Fen Fushi, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort, in addition to Mövenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives. Raffles Maldives Meradhoo, which was previously managed by Dubai-based hospitality group Jumeirah is set to open later this year, while the brand new Pullman Maldives Maamutaa resort will open its doors to guests next year.
For more information about Mӧvenpick Resort Kuredhivaru Maldives and reservations, please call +960 6563000 or email: Resort.Kuredhivaru.Reservations@movenpick.com.
Business
Visit Maldives presents cultural, food festival to celebrate 2025
Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives) has announced the ‘Maldives Culture and Food Festival’, a two-day extravaganza showcasing the Maldivian cuisine, local arts and craft, and entertainment.
The festival will take place at Central Park, Hulhumale’, on New Year’s Eve, December 31st, 2024, and continue into New Year’s Day, January 1st, 2025, offering a unique and immersive experience for locals and tourists alike.
This exciting initiative by MMPRC is a collaborative effort involving key partners such as the Ministry of Tourism (MOT), Housing Development Corporation (HDC), MyHulhumale’, Business Center Corporation (BCC), Male’ City Council, Waste Management Corporation Limited (WAMCO), the Maldives Police Service, Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), Public Service Media (PSM), Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL), Dhiraagu, Ooredoo, Manta Air, Maldivian, Ace Travels, and Gulf Air. It promises a dynamic programme filled with performances, activities, and food stalls. Attendees will have the opportunity to savour authentic Maldivian dishes, explore traditional arts and crafts, and witness captivating cultural performances.
On December 31st, the festivities will begin at 20:00 with doors opening to the public. A spectacular drone show will be held, depicting a tourist’s journey through the beautiful Maldives. The evening will continue with captivating cultural performances including Boduberu performances, and “Dhafi Negun”. A New Year’s Eve countdown will also take place, culminating in a dazzling fireworks display to welcome 2025.
The celebrations will continue on January 1st 2025 from 16:00 to 22:00, with the festival reopening and featuring food and arts and crafts stalls. A range of family-friendly activities will be available, including a police and fire truck showcase, a climbing wall, a bounce house, and a Transformers display. Additionally, the festival will feature energetic Boduberu performances and an exciting Roboman showcase.
“MMPRC is proud to present the first Maldives Culture and Food Festival,” said Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO and MD of MMPRC. “This event is a key initiative to celebrate the achievements of the Maldives in 2024 and to promote the diverse cultural heritage of the Maldives while providing a memorable experience for locals and visitors. We invite everyone to join us in celebrating the Maldivian spirit as we bid farewell to 2024 and welcome the new year.”
Business
Barcelo Nasandhura Malé to open in Q1 2025
Barcelo Nasandhura Malé, the Maldives’ newest luxury destination, is set to open its doors in Q1 2025.
Located on the site of the former Nasandhura Palace Hotel, the property will become the largest hotel in the capital, Malé. With 136 elegantly designed rooms, including 95 with stunning ocean views, and 116 luxurious serviced apartments, Barcelo Nasandhura Malé promises a unique blend of sophistication, comfort, and convenience in the heart of this vibrant city.
Operated by the renowned Spanish hotel chain Barcelo Group, the hotel represents a significant expansion of the brand’s presence in the Maldives and beyond. Barcelo Group, known for its exceptional resorts, recently opened Barcelo Whale Lagoon Maldives in South Ari Atoll in August 2024, further solidifying its growing portfolio in the region. In addition to its Maldivian properties, Barcelo Group manages a range of high-profile hotels across the UAE, Thailand, and several European countries.
Barcelo Nasandhura Malé will feature an array of premium facilities, including four upscale dining outlets, a rooftop shisha bar, an oceanfront pool, a state-of-the-art gym, and a luxurious spa. The hotel will also boast 1,034 square meters of versatile MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) space, making it an ideal venue for corporate events and gatherings.
While some serviced apartments were initially intended for residential use, they will now be available for daily rental, offering guests enhanced flexibility and a wider range of accommodation options. Originally scheduled to open on December 1, 2024, the opening has been slightly delayed due to minor construction work. However, the team remains committed to ensuring Barcelo Nasandhura Malé is ready to welcome its first guests in Q1 2025.
Barcelo Hotel Group, awarded World’s Leading Hotel Management Company 2023 by the World Travel Awards, is the second-largest hotel chain in Spain and ranks among the 30 largest globally in terms of the number of rooms. Founded in 1931, this family-run organisation operates 280 four- and five-star city and holiday hotels, offering more than 62,000 rooms across 25 countries. The group markets its hotels under four distinct brands, each focused on providing diverse and memorable travel experiences.
Renowned for its commitment to excellence and sustainability, Barcelo Hotel Group delivers exceptional stays, seamlessly blending luxury, comfort, and environmental responsibility.
Action
Denise Hoefer brings world-class Padel to The Nautilus Maldives
As part of its ‘Masters for Masters’ series, The Nautilus Maldives will host Denise Hoefer, Germany’s No. 1 padel player and one of the world’s top 50 most influential figures in the padel industry, for an exclusive Padel Masterclass from March 22 to 25, 2025. This exceptional event invites guests to enhance their padel skills under the expert guidance of a global champion, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Maldives’ Indian Ocean.
Padel, recognised as the world’s fastest-growing sport, has captured the hearts of 30 million enthusiasts globally, according to the International Padel Federation. This March, The Nautilus will provide a unique opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in this thrilling game during a four-day Padel Masterclass led by Denise Hoefer, Germany’s top-ranked female padel player and captain of the German national team. Participants will refine their techniques on The Nautilus’s state-of-the-art padel court, while experiencing the island’s signature blend of world-class coaching and timeless, unscripted hospitality.
The Padel Masterclass will feature a tailored mix of group and private sessions, catering to players of all levels. Younger participants will have the chance to join the Young Wonderers program, offering specially designed classes that introduce the sport in a fun and engaging way. After an energising day on the court, guests can unwind at Solasta Spa, where exclusive treatments by Maison Caulières—such as Spinal Connection Deep Tissue Healing, Volcanic Stone Therapy, and Warm Poultices—promise ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. These tranquil spa experiences provide a perfect complement to the day’s dynamic activities, leaving participants refreshed and revitalised.
With just 26 ultra-luxury houses and residences, The Nautilus offers an intimate sanctuary within the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Surrounded by powder-soft white sands, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters, this private island retreat redefines bespoke hospitality. Every element is meticulously crafted to inspire, offering guests an unparalleled ultra-luxury experience focused on relaxation, renewal, and discovery. Whether honing padel skills or embracing the serenity of island life, The Nautilus stands as the ultimate destination for discerning travellers.
-
Cooking1 week ago
Patina Maldives celebrates festive season with enchanting Net Zero Dinner at Roots
-
News1 week ago
World’s biggest giveaway featuring 52 Maldives holidays kicks off
-
Business1 week ago
Visit Maldives presents cultural, food festival to celebrate 2025
-
News1 week ago
Ayada Maldives elevates luxury travel with new speedboat
-
News7 days ago
Reimagined paradise: New era for W Maldives
-
Entertainment7 days ago
Art in the tropics: vibrant celebration at Pullman Maldives Maamutaa
-
Celebration6 days ago
Ring in prosperity and joy at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives this Lunar New Year
-
Celebration5 days ago
Amilla Maldives’ 70s-inspired New Year’s bash lights up the island