Featured
Maldives targets two mln tourist arrivals in 2020

Maldives government on Sunday announced an ambitious target of attracting at least two million tourists to the popular Indian Ocean holiday destination in 2020.
Tourism minister Ali Waheed told attendees of a special ceremony held at the main Velana International Airport Sunday morning to welcome the 1.5 millionth tourist of the year that new and improved efforts would be made to achieve the target of two million tourist arrivals next year.
“This is an ambitious target, but anything can be achieved with hard work. We will work hard to achieve this target as well,” he said.
Maldives on Sunday welcomed the 1.5 millionth tourist of the year, reaching the destination’s target for tourist arrivals this year.
The minister attributed this year’s success to joint efforts by his ministry, Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) and industry stakeholders. The political stability in the country also played a major role in achieving the target, he said.
Maldives welcomed a record 1.4 million tourists in 2018. It was a 6.8 per cent increase from the 1,389,542 tourists that chose to holiday in the Maldives in 2017.
The new government aims to attract 2.5 million tourist arrivals per year by the end of its first five-year term in 2023.
To achieve this target, the government had proposed adding MVR 50 million (USD 3.23 million) to the annual marketing budget of the tourism ministry.
In the proposed state budget for 2020, the government had allocated MVR 154.2 million (USD 9.98 million) for tourism promotion — up from the MVR 104.2 million (USD 6.7 million) in 2019, and MVR 34.73 million (USD 2.2 million) each in 2018 and 2017.
The parliament is currently reviewing the budget.
The government, which came to power in 2018, pledged to ramp up tourism promotion.
Reflecting the new government’s pledge, the state budget for 2019 includes MVR 104,200,000 (USD 6.7 million) for tourism promotion, up from MVR 34,733,333 (USD 2.2 million) in 2018 and 2017.
Featured
ROBINSON NOONU expands summer offering with wellness, sports, and cultural events

ROBINSON NOONU, one of the Maldives’ leading resorts, has introduced a summer programme that combines culinary highlights, family activities, wellness initiatives, and entertainment events. The resort is recognised for creating memorable experiences that remain with guests long after departure and has curated a schedule designed to appeal to a wide range of travellers.
Guests at ROBINSON NOONU are offered a selection of culinary experiences enhanced by weekly live performances from international artists and DJs. These performances provide a varied musical backdrop, creating an immersive atmosphere for dining and evening entertainment.
Families visiting the resort this season can participate in the Weekly Splash Action at the newly renovated water sports jetty. The highlight of the event is a ten-metre-long air cushion (Blob), which catapults participants into the lagoon. The activity attracts additional interest when the General Manager joins in, adding to the sense of occasion.
The resort has expanded its sports and wellness offering with the introduction of a padel tennis court, bringing one of the world’s fastest-growing sports to its facilities. Another addition is ‘YinSurf’ on the Strobel & Walter Balance Board, combining yoga, mindfulness, and full-body training. This programme is designed to promote physical wellbeing while supporting mental focus.
Every two weeks, the resort hosts themed events, including:
- Jungle Party – held in a driftwood-inspired venue.
- Underwater Party – featuring an inflatable octopus and 360° underwater visuals.
- Sundowner Beach Party – an evening gathering on the beach during sunset.
- White Party – an event on the pool deck with themed décor.
- BOHO Festival Show – a new addition, with a bohemian setting of teepees and natural tones.
- Pink Pool Party – a lively celebration with a colourful theme.
The highlight of the season will be the ‘This is NOONU’ Week, scheduled from 22 to 29 September. The programme includes performances from eight international artists, guest DJs, and WellFit experts. Events such as the Suite Party and a special edition of the Pink Pool Party will be featured, offering guests a range of experiences throughout the week.
By combining entertainment, wellness, sport, and culinary experiences, ROBINSON NOONU continues to strengthen its position as a Maldivian resort offering diverse programmes for its guests.
Awards
ROBINSON MALDIVES named Best Adults Only Resort at TTM Awards 2025

ROBINSON MALDIVES, located on the island of Funamadua, has been named ‘Best Adults Only Resort 2025’ at the Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) Awards. The recognition reinforces the resort’s standing as a leading destination for travellers seeking privacy, tranquillity, and attentive service in the Indian Ocean.
The TTM Awards, regarded as one of the most significant honours in the Maldivian tourism sector, are presented annually during the TTM Maldives International Trade Show. The event brings together global travel professionals, tour operators, and media representatives. Winners are chosen through an international online voting process, with travellers casting votes across a range of categories. Commenting on the award, Andreas Stys, General Manager of ROBINSON MALDIVES, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this award. It is a testament to our unwavering commitment to delivering a holiday experience defined by style, relaxation, and outstanding quality.”
The resort has recently undergone an extensive refurbishment, introducing a number of new features to enhance the guest experience. These include:
- 28 new overwater villas with private pools, offering comfort and seclusion above the lagoon
- Redesigned interiors, including the main bar, restaurant, gym, and reception, refreshed with a contemporary look
- A Japanese teppanyaki restaurant, providing a live dining experience
- The Sundowner Bar, with panoramic views of the ocean
As an adults-only retreat, ROBINSON MALDIVES also offers white-sand beaches, coral reefs for snorkelling, a variety of sports and wellness activities, and dining options that combine international and local flavours. By securing the title of ‘Best Adults Only Resort 2025’, the resort has strengthened its reputation as a preferred choice for couples, solo travellers, and those seeking a premium escape in the Maldives.
Awards
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives wins Best Adults-Only Resort at TTM Awards 2025

Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives has been named Best Adults-Only Resort 2025 at the Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) Awards & Gala, held on 28 August 2025. The award recognises resorts that provide dedicated adults-only experiences in the Maldives.
Located in Meemu Atoll, the resort is spread across two islands, a concept designed to ensure privacy and tranquillity. The adults-only island is positioned as a destination for couples and adult travellers seeking seclusion, supported by uninterrupted lagoon views and natural surroundings.
The resort offers a range of curated experiences, including sandbank picnics, floating breakfasts, candlelit dining, and spa treatments inspired by Maldivian traditions. These activities are designed to allow couples to spend time together without distraction.
Commenting on the award, Rajeeva Rajapakse, General Manager of Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives, said: “Being recognised as the Best Adults-Only Resort 2025 at the TTM Awards is a true honour for us. This achievement is a testament to the passion and commitment of our team in creating an environment where our guests can connect, unwind, and experience the Maldives in its most tranquil form. Our focus has always been on delivering a sense of intimacy and exclusivity, and this award inspires us to continue enhancing the unique moments that define Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives.”
The TTM Awards is an annual event that brings together industry leaders to recognise achievements across the Maldivian hospitality sector. The award highlights Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives’ position as a destination for couples and adult travellers seeking a retreat designed exclusively for adults.
The resort has also announced a seasonal offer, providing guests who book stays of five nights or more with discounts of up to 67 percent during the upcoming winter period.
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