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Private island adventure with Raffles Maldives’ exclusive privatisation offer
From Richard Branson’s Necker Island in the Caribbean Sea, to Steven Spielberg’s islands in the Madeira Archipelago of Portugal, the allure of a private island is usually reserved for only the wealthiest of billionaires.
But ownership and maintenance of island properties requires endless work and expenses, so why buy when one could simply rent one of the world’s most prestigious and stunning island resorts – Raffles Maldives Meradhoo in Maldives.
For a limited time, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is offering an exceptional USD 1 million all-inclusive island buyout, providing a rare opportunity to experience this remarkable resort fully on one’s own terms.
In addition to unprecedented privacy and with all manner of special privileges, Raffles will even throw in the use of an additional ‘deserted island’ that can be transformed into an epic celebration or adventure space.
Just an 80-minute boat ride from the equator, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo lies in one of the most remote and unblemished corners of the Maldives — the Gaafu Alif Atoll — and its pristine beauty invariably awes all who visit.
Available for four-night, five-day stays, the You Run Raffles Maldives package provides a generous host with the opportunity to treat up to 70 very lucky loved ones, friends and close associates to the all-inclusive, legendary service of Raffles, complete with Raffles Butlers, set amidst the tropical oasis of Raffles Maldives Meradhoo.
After enjoying a private charter flight from the Maldivian capital Male or landing a private jet at Kooddoo airport (located in the resort’s atoll of Gaafu Alifu) via Gan International Airport in the south, the group will have full access to the resort’s two islands. The first island is a white-sand idyll where 21 vast villas reside amongst palm trees; whilst the second island is an overwater retreat where residences stand over gently lapping waters.
As part of the You Run Raffles Maldives package, guests will also have access to a nearby deserted island to enact whatever castaway fantasy they may wish. Whether transformed into a tropical playground; a thrilling sunset concert with a celebrity DJ; or serving as a serene escape for a romantic night-time champagne-and-stargazing session guided by a personal astronomer, this bonus beach hideaway is a blank canvas that can be designed for the dream experience of a lifetime.
Adding another layer of indulgence, the culinary team at Raffles Maldives Meradhoo will create special menus and tailored dining experiences for guests visiting on this unprecedented package.
Guests are invited to wine and dine whenever and wherever they wish, on a complimentary basis. Exclusive dining experiences may involve a supper of beef tenderloin with chimichurri at The Firepit, an elemental, tiki torch-lit barbecue restaurant where diners sit at sunken tables that have been carved from the sand, or superlative sushi and potent pisco sours at elegant Nikkei restaurant, Yuzu.
For sundowners, parties can gather at the Long Bar for free-flowing Maldives Slings, an irresistible mix of gin, coconut, cinnamon and clove.
No island getaway would be complete without an incomparable spa experience. Raffles Spa will treat guests to Biologique Recherche facials, Aromatherapy Associates massages, and many more bespoke treatments.
Guests are also free to enjoy endless water sports and unlimited use of the resort’s yacht Azimut. Dolphin-watching cruises, fishing or diving expeditions may be arranged, with cocktails and canapés waiting on board.
Sea-life lovers can also enjoy this region’s remarkable beauty under the guidance of their own Raffles Marine Butler, a unique concept in the Maldives. They will happily lead snorkelling excursions to the resort’s two vibrant house reefs, home to scores of fish species, from fluorescent parrotfish to handsome blacktip sharks and 22 gentle hawksbill turtles.
The exclusive guests of You Run Raffles Maldives will be pleased to know their visit will help protect this precious ecosystem over the years to come. The rate includes a five per cent charitable donation, split between the Maldives’ Marine Centre and the Olive Ridley Project, an NGO that works to protect sea turtles.
As a personal memento, guests will receive a range of personalised souvenirs including a customised robe, complete with the embroidered event name You Run Raffles Maldives, and custom epicurean treats created by the chefs for guests to take home, with each gift intended to serve as a treasured reminder of a holiday like no other.
Already recognised as one of the Indian Ocean’s preeminent properties, Raffles Maldives Meradhoo effortlessly maintains Raffles’ reputation for superlative service, exceptional dining and phenomenal beauty.
The dedicated luxury travel connoisseurs of Raffles Maldives Meradhoo are on hand to tailor the trip of a lifetime for discerning guests. For more information on Raffles Maldives Meradhoo please visit www.rafflesmaldives.com. For reservations, please email reservations.maldives@raffles.com or call +960 6828800.
The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives, Autograph Collection has announced a collaboration with Ahmed Aleem Shakoor, who is currently in residence at the resort, introducing a creative element to the guest experience.
Aleem, a self-taught artist, is known for work that combines maritime themes, surrealism and symbolism. His practice spans watercolours, acrylics and mixed media, drawing inspiration from the Maldives’ history and ocean landscapes, often expressed through the use of light, depth and narrative.
During his residency, Aleem is working with the resort to develop a series of artistic and cultural experiences aimed at engaging guests. These include live painting sessions, informal interactions with the artist and workshops designed to encourage creative participation.
The programme forms part of the resort’s wider activities, with offerings such as mini canvas painting, coconut painting and creative art sessions available to guests. In addition, Tales Painted in Sunlight combines elements of Maldivian folklore, storytelling and visual art, providing further insight into local culture.
The collaboration reflects the resort’s approach to incorporating local artistic talent into its programming, while offering guests opportunities to engage with creative activities in a relaxed setting. The residency is designed to allow guests to explore artistic expression as part of their island experience.
As part of its seasonal programme, selected artistic activities are also included in the resort’s Easter offerings, providing additional opportunities for guests to take part in creative experiences during their stay.
Amilla Maldives has been named a joint winner in the Most OutThere Initiative in Inclusive Travel category at the Experientialist Awards 2026, following a Highly Commended recognition in the same category in 2025.
The Experientialist Awards recognise organisations shaping travel through inclusivity, individuality and design, with the inclusive travel category highlighting initiatives that address not only accessibility, but also how journeys are experienced by guests.
At Amilla Maldives, accessibility is integrated into the overall guest experience. The resort adopts an approach that begins at the planning stage and continues throughout the stay, with a focus on understanding individual guest needs and adapting experiences accordingly.
Aligned with its In Harmony with Purpose philosophy, the resort has introduced a range of measures aimed at improving accessibility. These include villa features designed for ease of use, accessible pathways across the island and adaptive experiences such as inclusive snorkelling and wellness sessions.
As an IncluCare Verified resort, Amilla Maldives continues to develop its offering through feedback and collaboration, with the aim of enhancing inclusivity across its operations.
Commenting on the recognition, Morgan Martinello said the resort remains focused on creating travel experiences that feel natural and accessible. He noted that the continued recognition reflects the resort’s ongoing efforts to improve inclusivity.
The award from OutThere, a platform focused on diversity and inclusion in travel, marks a further step in the resort’s efforts to create accessible and inclusive guest experiences.
Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives, part of Centara Hotels and Resorts, has marked its first anniversary, highlighting a year of operations as a luxury island resort within The Atollia development.
During its first year, the resort has received international recognition, including being named among Favourite Overseas Leisure Hotels in the Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 and listed among the Top Ten Best Maldives Resorts in the DestinAsian Readers’ Choice Awards 2026.
Since opening, the resort has offered a collection of beachfront and overwater villas, along with two- and three-bedroom residences designed to provide privacy and space. Accommodation options include private pools or Jacuzzis, with design elements incorporating contemporary architecture, natural materials and Thai-inspired influences.
The resort’s concept draws on Thai heritage, reflected across its wellness, dining and guest experiences. At SPA Cenvaree Retreat, treatments are inspired by traditional Thai wellness practices. Dining options across the resort include live cooking experiences at The Gallery, Mediterranean-inspired seafood at Bluefin, and beverage offerings at venues such as Sunset Social, The Club and Coco Drift.
Guests can also take part in a range of leisure and recreational activities, including water sports and marine experiences. The resort caters to a variety of travellers, offering facilities for families, including a kids’ club and an entertainment zone for teenagers, as well as spaces for private events, group stays and corporate gatherings.
Commenting on the milestone, Jorge Fernandez said the resort combines elements of Thai heritage with the Maldivian environment to create a distinct guest experience. He noted that recognition received during the first year reflects the resort’s approach to hospitality, sustainability and service, while also acknowledging the role of guests and staff in its development.
As it marks its first anniversary, Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives continues to focus on delivering curated guest experiences, with an emphasis on hospitality, design and sustainable operations within the destination.
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