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The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives opens

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The Standard, an American hotel brand known for its taste-making clientele, pioneering design, and unrelenting un-standard-ness, has opened The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives.

The resort’s opening on November 1 marks the brand’s first property in Asia.

Traditionally seen as a couple’s destination, The Standard has taken a fresh approach to its island retreat, offering relaxation, social activities and vibrant cultural experiences that welcome not only couples but groups of friends and singles looking to reset and recharge in paradise.

Welcome to The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives

A breathtaking 35-minute seaplane ride away from Velana International Airport, The Standard, Huruvalhi is nestled between the Raa and Baa atolls, on a naturally protected island. Guests can also take a combined 20-minute domestic flight to Dharavandhoo and 35-minute speedboat ride to the resort.

Guests step into an airy, intimate lobby, accessible 24-hours a day and complete with an exclusive curated selection of cult beauty and wellness products, eclectic wares, and resort essentials only available for purchase on the island.

Guests are then escorted to one of the resort’s 115 overwater and beach villas, each with its own infinity plunge pool and private lounge deck with direct access to the lagoon, ocean or beach. A glittering disco ball strategically perched above the soaking bathtub in every villa bathroom makes for a signature Standard statement piece and serves as a reminder that you really can party anywhere and at any time of the day at The Standard.

On property, guests will find a large scale specially commissioned work from Rostarr, a highly acclaimed, groundbreaking multidisciplinary artist and member of The Global Standard Family – the brand’s inner circle of creators, collaborators and cultural tastemakers.

Dining in style

The Standard, Huruvalhi celebrates the bounty of the region. The freshest ingredients and produce sourced both regionally and from the resort’s own island farm are showcased in a delicious array of local and global creations.

Six unique restaurants cater to every taste and preference.

GUDUGUDA, an authentic Maldivian Restaurant, is the first of its kind in the Maldives. Featuring a traditional celebratory Maldivian cuisine cooked by Maldivian “aunties” – the women who carry on the tradition of this remarkable cuisine, menus showcase locally caught, seafood driven dishes, flavourful coconut milk curries, regional fruits and vegetables, aromatic rice dishes and freshly baked breads.

For a spot of grilled grub and reggae beats on the beach, swing by BBQ SHAK, where fresh seafood and meats are grilled to order over coconut shell charcoal and paired with a selection of house-made sauces.

Island living makes for thirsty work. Head over to TODIS BAR, located off the pool deck for a signature TODIS cocktail, served in a half coconut shell and made from “toddy”, a local specialty liquor made by fermenting fresh coconut water.

As the sun sets, guests are invited to BERU BAR for craft cocktails, tropical juices and Maldivian inspired light bites. An adults-only over-water-club perched just feet above the ocean, it features fantastic views, a glass floor bottomed floor and a sunset ritual led by a Boduberu drummer (a local Maldivian percussionist). Local DJs spin breezy Maldivian inspired-beats, drawing everyone to the dance floor.

Adventures on island and underwater

Guests are spoiled for choice with a selection of curated experiences and cultural programmes that include indigenous basket weaving, a moonlight cinema beneath the stars or join one of their legendary pool parties at the beachside infinity pool.

The Standard, Huruvalhi also has some of the most experienced guides for snorkeling and diving excursions through the resort’s protected house reef and local waters.

Enjoy sunset boat trips to uninhabited islands and undiscovered reefs, as well as day and night fishing and private destination dining. For some fun in the sun, a full collection of sea equipment is available from glass bottom kayaks to jet skis and windsurfers.

The resort also has an 82sqm inflatable water park accessible by pontoon for both adults and kids.

Parents looking for a reprieve can drop their kids off at the the Lil’ Shark Kids Club complete with professional childcare services, a teen zone and paddling pool.

For a recovery or a reboot, The Standard Spa is an indoor hydrotherapy playground complete with a contemporary communal hammam, aroma cypress steam room and contrast shower experience.

Chill out with a Do-It-Yourself Mud Experience for one or a massage for two and take in The Spa’s ocean views from our nine private treatment rooms, couples den, and yoga studio hosting daily classes.

The Spa Deck and Tonic Bar is the perfect place to kick-back post treatment, enjoy a yoga session or maybe a moonlit soiree. The Sun Lounge experience offers crystals and an apothecary for the body and mind that includes skincare and lifestyle products.

Committed to Conservation

The Standard’s commitment to showcasing an unparalleled resort experience is equalled by its dedication to the conservation of marine life. Preserving coral life, reducing plastic waste, and using products made from repurposed and recyclable materials all form a groundwork of the resort’s conservation efforts to saving the ocean and marine life.

Guests will find some signature menu items include a USD 1 donation towards the resort’s foundation for coral conservation. The Standard, Huruvalhi also proudly has its very own lagoon coral nursery which houses over 3,000 juvenile corals, creating the resort’s very own personal underwater garden.

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Shangri-La Villingili Resort reopening announced for December 2025

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Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts has confirmed that Shangri-La Villingili Resort & Spa will reopen its doors on 31 December 2025, once again welcoming guests to one of the Maldives’ most distinctive luxury island destinations.

Located on Villingili Island in the southernmost Addu City, the resort is surrounded by lush tropical greenery and pristine natural settings. Guests will have access to 2 kilometres of white sandy beaches and 6 kilometres of uninterrupted coastline, framed by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The resort also features natural lagoons and carefully preserved landscapes, offering a balance of seclusion and discovery.

Shangri-La Villingili Resort & Spa has long been recognised for its blend of Maldivian charm with refined hospitality standards. The reopening will reintroduce the signature service excellence for which Shangri-La is known worldwide, alongside curated experiences designed to enhance the guest journey from arrival to departure. These will include opportunities to explore local culture, engage in ocean-based activities, and enjoy personalised wellness and dining experiences.

The Ministry of Tourism and Environment also issued a statement confirming the reopening, framing it as a government priority.

“The Government of the Republic of Maldives is pleased to announce the forthcoming reopening of Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort, Addu City, which has remained closed since March 2020 due to the COVID-19. The re-opening of this Resort is a presidential pledge by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu,” the statement said.

The ministry noted the resort’s economic and social significance to Addu.

“From its opening in 2009 until its closure, Shangri-La Villingili made significant contributions to both local livelihoods and enhanced connectivity through Gan International Airport. Prior to the closing of the resort, the resort employed more than 500 staff,” it said.

According to the government, sustained engagement with Addu Investments Private Limited and all relevant stakeholders has been central to resolving the resort’s prolonged closure. These efforts culminated in “a firm commitment from Addu Investments Private Limited to resume operations and reopen the resort by 31 December 2025.”

The ministry added that the reopening would “bring renewed economic and social benefits to Addu City, strengthen tourism diversification across the Maldives, and support the Government’s vision of expanding tourism opportunities beyond the central region while promoting development in the outer atolls.”

The statement concluded by welcoming the development and extending appreciation to Shangri-La and Addu Investments.

“The Government welcomes this positive development and extends its appreciation to Shangri-La’s management and Addu Investments Private Limited for their commitment to reopening this landmark property.”

Shangri-La, for its part, emphasised that the return of the resort represents both a renewal of its presence in the Maldives and a commitment to elevating the standards of luxury travel in the region. With its reopening, the group said, travellers will once again be able to experience a destination that combines natural beauty with world-class service, creating a setting suited for both leisure and meaningful experiences.

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Minor Hotels to reopen NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort in December 2025

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Minor Hotels has announced that NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort will reopen on 18 December 2025, following a six-month transformation that has revitalised the island’s villas, dining outlets and leisure facilities, while preserving its natural beauty. Formerly known as Reethi Beach Resort, the property has been repositioned under the NH Collection brand to combine Maldivian heritage with contemporary comfort.

Situated in the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, NH Collection Maldives Reethi Resort is accessible by a 35-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport. Hanifaru Bay, famed for manta rays, whale sharks and turtles, lies less than 20 minutes from the island.

The resort offers 105 beach and overwater villas, designed to merge traditional Maldivian character with modern convenience. Beach Villas provide direct access to the shoreline and ocean views, while a new category of sixteen villas with private pools enhances the offering. Overwater Villas, located on the north side of the island, extend across the lagoon and feature private decks with uninterrupted vistas, ideal for sunbathing by day or stargazing by night.

Seven distinct dining and bar venues are available to guests. The three signature restaurants include Alifaan, a beachfront grill centred on wood-fire cooking; Kaiyo, an overwater venue showcasing Asian cuisine; and Jumla, an all-day dining space serving international and local flavours. Light snacks and tropical drinks are offered at Madumaithri, beside the new beachfront infinity pool, and at Aqua Bar, located by the main pool. Atardecer, the sunset beach bar, combines cocktails, tapas and entertainment, while Handhuvaru, a rum bar set within the island landscape, provides a more secluded option. Guests may also enjoy fine dining experiences in the wine cellar or opt for the Adrift private dining concept, set in outdoor locations around the island.

The resort’s location enables a range of marine and land-based activities. Snorkelling is possible at the house reef, while excursions to Hanifaru Bay allow diving with manta rays, whale sharks and sting rays. Watersports include jet skiing, wakeboarding, flyboarding, kayaking, windsurfing, hydrobiking and stand-up paddleboarding. On land, the redesigned REVIVE spa offers wellness therapies inspired by nature, complemented by the resort’s Activity Centre, which features a fitness studio, games room, Kids’ Club, and courts for tennis, badminton, volleyball and pickleball. Guests may also relax along the beachfront or at the main pool.

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Oktoberfest comes to shore at SO/ Maldives with bratwurst & beats

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This October, SO/ Maldives alters the world’s most iconic beer festival into a chic island activation, blending Bavarian tradition with the resort’s signature flair for fashion-led experiences. Guests are invited to trade their lederhosen for linen and toast to Oktoberfest in true Maldivian style with Bratwurst & Beats by the Beach, a one-night-only beachfront celebration at Lazuli Beach Hut on Sunday, 5 October 2025, from 7 PM to 10 PM.

As the waves set the rhythm, the evening unfolds with a Bavarian-inspired BBQ featuring bratwurst fresh from the grill, golden pretzels, tangy sauerkraut, and all the authentic fixings paired with unlimited free-flowing beers. Once the sun melts into the horizon, a live DJ takes over, layering energetic beats with the island’s natural soundtrack. More than just a feast, the activation brings together community, culture, and celebration in a way only SO/ Maldives can deliver.

Nestled in the vibrant Emboodhoo Lagoon, SO/ Maldives is a private island playground where avant-garde design meets barefoot luxury. The resort’s 80 beachfront and overwater villas are crafted for open-plan living, each complete with a private pool and sweeping ocean views. Designed across eight categories, including spacious two- and three-bedroom villas, SO/ Maldives offers stylish sanctuaries for couples, families, and groups seeking a fashionable island escape.

The culinary journey at SO/ Maldives is as bold as its design. Guests can explore three distinct dining destinations: The Citronelle Club, an oceanfront venue serving Pan-Asian delights with a European twist; Lazuli Beach Club, a sun-kissed Mediterranean-inspired lounge radiating Côte d’Azur vibes; and Hadaba, the signature Levantine restaurant where smoky delicacies meet endless sea views.

Wellness and play are equally celebrated at the resort. Spa is a sanctuary of rejuvenation featuring Vichy rainforest showers, steam and sauna rooms, and a fitness sphere with panoramic ocean vistas. Families are drawn to The Nest Kids Club and The Zone games lounge, while explorers dive into the watersports hub for island adventures on and beneath the waves.

“Oktoberfest is all about bringing people together, and at SO/ Maldives we love adding our own fashionable twist,” said Olivier MOIES-DELVAL, General Manager of SO/ Maldives. “Imagine celebrating with bratwurst and beer on a white sandy beach, with music, laughter, and the Maldivian sunset it’s an Oktoberfest you’ll never forget.”

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