Business
Centara signs management pact for new Maldives resort, Centara Grand Muthaafushi
Leading Thai hospitality group Centara Hotels & Resorts has signed a new hotel management agreement for its fourth beach resort in Maldives, Centara Grand Muthaafushi Resort & Spa Maldives.
In a statement, Centara said the agreement was signed with Maldivian companies Muthaafushi Orient Investments Limited and Well Land Investment to manage and operate the new five-star resort in Baa Atoll. The new resort is expected to have soft opening in the fourth quarter of next year, followed by the grand opening in 2019, it added.
Centara Grand Muthaafushi will comprise 24 land villas and 77 water villas with an array of international restaurants including an underwater restaurant, a floating cinema, a dedicated Thai spa, a fitness centre and other facilities expected in a Centara Grand resort.
“We are delighted to be selected by Muthaafushi Orient Investments Limited to manage and operate their new five-star resort in the Maldives. We believe that Centara Grand Muthaafushi Resort & Spa Maldives will fit well into our Centara Grand resort portfolio. This expansion of the business in the Maldives is in line with Centara’s growth strategy to strengthen our presence both in the South Asian region and internationally,” Centara Hotels & Resorts’ CEO Thirayuth Chirathivat was quoted as saying in the statement.
Mohamed Hameed, Director of Muthaafushi Orient Investments Limited, said, “It was an esteemed pleasure for Muthaafushi Orient Investments Limited to embark on this partnership with Centara Hotels & Resorts for the new Centara Grand Muthaafushi Resort & Spa Maldives. It is a great opportunity for us to work with such an eminent hospitality brand of the Thai origin as Centara, who brings with it long legacy of success in operating both owned and managed properties in popular tourist destinations worldwide.”
According to Centara, Avista Asset Management, a real estate asset management company from Singapore, built an investment case to identify potential joint venture partners which led to the teaming up of Muthaafushi Orient Investments Limited, China Orient Asset Management (International) Holding Limited and Centara Hotels & Resorts.
Avista Asset Management has been appointed as the development and asset manager of this project by Muthaafushi Orient Investments Limited. Avista Asset Management will continue to work closely with all the stakeholders, and manage the development and asset management of Centara Grand Muthaafushi Resort & Spa Maldives.
Located approximately 123 kilometres north west of the Maldives’ main Velana International Airport, Baa Atoll consists of 75 islands dotted around three separate natural atolls, and is home to some of the richest biodiversity in the region. The atoll has been declared a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, placing it in the company of world famous ecological sites.
Centara, which has 65 hotels in total, operates in 10 countries with 22 properties outside Thailand in locations including Vietnam, the Maldives and Sri Lanka. Two hotels are under development in China and 10 others are planned in various countries, including three investments and seven management contracts.
Centara already runs two resorts in the Maldives; the Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa and Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa. The two resorts have won several international awards, including the ‘Leading All Inclusive Resort’ from South Asian Travel Awards 2016 and the ‘Guest Review Award 2016’ from Booking.com for Centara Grand Island Resort & Spa.
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.
Business
BBM, Lifebuoy empowers hygiene practices among Maldivian children
BBM, in collaboration with Lifebuoy, marked Global Handwashing Day 2024 with engaging activities aimed at instilling the habit of proper hand hygiene among Maldivian school children. Held on November 17th, the event continued the successful “H for Handwashing” campaign, blending education with creativity and fun.
The initiative featured info sessions, exciting games, and creative contests designed to teach children the importance of handwashing while giving them a hands-on understanding of the correct techniques. Activities ranged from reimagined board games like “Germs & Ladders” and “Handwashing Ludo” to interactive sessions that reinforced hygiene habits in an enjoyable way.
This campaign underscores BBM’s commitment to fostering healthier practices among the younger generation, contributing to a healthier and more hygienic Maldives. COO of BBM, A.V.S. Subrahmanyam, emphasised, “At BBM, we believe that empowering the next generation with the knowledge and tools for better hygiene practices is vital for building a resilient and healthy community. We are proud to continue our efforts in collaboration with partners like Lifebuoy.”
Adding to this, Muksith Hussain, Head of Retail Sales at BBM, shared, “Reaching children through such innovative initiatives helps us lay the foundation for a healthier tomorrow. We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm and participation of these young minds in learning the importance of hygiene.”
The event also saw valuable support from the Maldivian Red Crescent (MRC), whose contributions enriched the experience for the children. BBM expressed gratitude for MRC’s involvement, as their efforts played a key role in making the event impactful and memorable.
Through campaigns like this, BBM aims to nurture a lifelong habit of handwashing, creating a brighter and healthier future for the Maldives.
Let’s keep the spirit alive—join the Handwashing Revolution with BBM and Lifebuoy!
-
Lifestyle1 week ago
Maldives: The new haven for over-55 travelers
-
News7 days ago
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives receives Wellness Heaven Award 2026 nominations
-
Entertainment1 week ago
Kurumba Maldives, Marvin Humes ring in 2025 with exclusive beachfront DJ set
-
Featured1 week ago
Villa Resorts partners with Mohamed Al Geziry Consultancy to expand GCC presence
-
Action1 week ago
JOALI BEING hosts inspirational tennis workshops with Sascha Zverev, Alexander Zverev Foundation
-
Business1 week ago
BBM, Lifebuoy empowers hygiene practices among Maldivian children
-
News1 week ago
Dream island getaway at Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives to locals, expats
-
Action1 week ago
Denise Hoefer brings world-class Padel to The Nautilus Maldives