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GHM’s debut Maldives resort The Chedi Kudavillingili to open in 2020

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Singapore-based GHM has announced plans to launch The Chedi Kudavillingili, its first resort in the Maldives, later this year.

The 99-villa property will feature 36 overwater villas, a 150-metre-long central pool and desirable proximity to the Maldives’ main Velana International Airport, a 25-minute speedboat ride away.

Located on a 1-kilometre coral island called Kudavillingili, The Chedi Kudavillingili is shaped by a global team of design talents working closely with the GHM team. Maldivian architecture anchors the resort’s overarching aesthetic appeal, with complementary interior design and landscaping from Singapore and a lighting scheme from the United States.

“Our plans for The Chedi Kudavillingili will showcase the enduring beauty of the Maldives and its people, but we will also remain true to GHM’s tenets of intuitive luxury, timeless designs, bespoke experiences and quality service,” Hans R. Jenni, GHM’s Co-founder and President, was quoted in a statement, as saying.

Since its founding in 1992, GHM has taken the road less travelled into destinations not so well known at the time, opening resorts such as The Nam Hai in Vietnam, The Chedi Muscat in Oman and The Chedi Andermatt in Switzerland. Each won renown for designs that embraced local archetypes and were then enhanced by an alchemy of Asian aesthetics and contemporary cool.

“I’ve always been impressed with GHM’s work – particularly with The Chedi Muscat,” Dr P Mohamed Ali, Chairman of the MFAR Group, which owns the island, said.

“I’ve seen the kind of impact a GHM resort can have on a destination, and I am looking forward to how GHM will redefine the luxury resort experience in the Maldives, just as they have done in Muscat.”

When GHM launches a new resort in a more established destination, the team is mindful of the brand ethos and the need to provide a singular experience for its guests, not unlike what it has been doing for other resorts in its portfolio.

“This new Chedi is to stand on the shoulders of GHM’s reputation, one that has been defining and redefining what’s chic for nearly three decades,” Jenni said.

“The Chedi Kudavillingili is to be the best yet.”

GHM expects the majority of the resort’s guests to come for the quiet, the placid waters and the pristine sands, for sunset cruises, barbecue dinners and fishing expeditions.

In addition to the 36 overwater villas, and 63 island-based villas, The Chedi Kudavillingili will feature a spa with eight overwater treatment rooms, a beach club and bar, an all-day dining restaurant and Hawkers Stalls featuring four live cooking stations. Recreational opportunities on the island run the gamut from courts for several different sports to surfing and a plethora of on-the-water and underwater pursuits.

Indian hotel developer MFAR Group had in 2013 acquired the leasehold rights to the Kudavillingili island in North Male Atoll from local developer Yacht Tours Maldives.

MFAR had earlier said that an investment of USD 150 million would be made to develop a luxury resort on the island.

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Alila Kothaifaru Maldives aligns festive events with World of Care commitments

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Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.

Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.

From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.

On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.

Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.

A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.

On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.

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Awards

Mercure Maldives Kooddoo wins triple honours at World Luxury Awards 2025

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Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.

The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.

Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.

“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.

The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.

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Awards

Hat-trick for Pullman Maldives Maamutaa at 2025 World Luxury Awards

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Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.

The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.

Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.

“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.

The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.

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