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Most anticipated hotel openings in Maldives in 2021

If a singular place on Earth deserves to be called a “picture-perfect postcard destination”, it has to be Maldives. Its tiny coral islands, surrounded by crystalline clear waters and sandy beaches make for the perfect place to get your tans on, and enjoy a holiday filled with every marvel under the shining sun.
There are over 150 resorts in Maldives, brimming with architectural beauty, impeccable service and unforgettable experiences which guarantees a second, third or even fourth trip back. But even 150 resorts may not be enough; over a dozen new resorts are on the horizon, due to start soon and throughout 2021.
Condé Nast Traveller has compiled a list of the 60 most anticipated hotel openings of 2021, and Maldives has grabbed a few spots on this wonderful list.
Ritz-Carlton Fari Islands, Maldives
Opening: May 2021

The ultra-luxurious Fari Islands development in the Maldives will welcome the arrival of not one, but three, high-end resorts across its archipelago: two in 2021 and the last in 2022.
Promising curated social, culinary and creative experiences, three of the four Fari islands will be home to a singular luxury resort, with the fourth housing the Fari Campus.
One of the three luxury resorts will be the Ritz-Carlton Fari Islands, promising a minimalist approach to luxury across its 100 contemporary villas, which range in size from one- to three-bedrooms and all come with private pools.
On hand to cater to guests’ every whim, Aris Meeha butler service is available to guests around the clock, ensuring every moment of their stay is memorable.
A signature overwater spa with nine treatment rooms, seven restaurants – including one of Michelin pedigree – two bars and an indoor-outdoor Ritz Kids Club with daily activities, playgrounds and a pool cater to travellers of all ages.
Guests will also have access to Fari Marina, where further restaurants plus shops and entertainment await.
Patina Maldives, Fari Islands, Maldives
Opening: Q2, 2021

The second of three resorts opening in the four-island Fari Islands archipelago, Patina Maldives is the debut property in Capella Hotels new Patina brand, which is self-described as catering to ‘progressive travelers of a new generation.’
Here, guests will be able to check-in to one of 90 well-appointed villas each with a private pool, or 20 beach suites, designed for those wishing to be more in the thick of the social scene due to their proximity to the Fari Marina Village.
At its beating heart, a chic Fari Beach Club will be the island’s premier oceanfront destination, although a Nordic Japanese fusion restaurant and plant-based concept will compliment the culinary prowess further.
There’s a major focus on sustainability, with single-use plastic banned and eco-friendly amenities available across the resort.
In 2022, Capella will also debut the third and final resort in the Fari Islands, complete the luxe resort line-up.
Le Meridien Maldives Resort & Spa, Lhaviyani Atoll
Opening: September 2021

A 35 minute seaplane journey over sparkling atolls from Velana International Airport is Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa.
Spanning nine hectares of natural scenery and enveloped by a natural lagoon, this new Maldives hideaway will offer six culinary experiences – including an overwater restaurant — and no less than 50 dive sites for marine enthusiasts to explore.
Designed with family stays in mind, children will delight in the Le Meridien Family concept, an immersive world where tinkering and exploring are celebrated.
A central lifestyle hub, central pool and adults-only pool, spa and rustic beach bars ensure every moment is filled with adventure and fun.
The Chedi Kudavillingili, Maldives
Opening: 2021

For their debut property in the Maldives, GHM will debut The Chedi Kudavillingili on a 1km private island next year.
A 25 minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, the 99-villa resort is split between 36 overwater villas 63 island based villas, and will feature a central pool stretching 150 metres, overwater spa with eight 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 range from courts for several different sports to surfing and a plethora of on-the-water and underwater pursuits.
Cocogiri Island Resort, Maldives
Opening: March 1, 2021

A beautifully boutique island resort of just 20 overwater villas and 20 beach villas on a private island in the Vaavu Atoll, Maldives, Cocogiri is the perfect setting for relaxation, exploration and rejuvenation.
There’s a strong focus on wellness and relaxation, so whether your digital detox location of choice is at the temperature-controlled pool, snorkelling the crystal blue waters or basking on the sun-dappled beaches, barefoot luxury awaits.
Traditional Maldivian experiences range from sunset dining to snorkelling and diving, plus the team are on-hand to arrange excursions such as dolphin cruises, private island picnics and island hopping tours.
Address Madivaru Maldives Resort Spa, Maldives
Opening: 2021

Address Hotel’s current property portfolio only extends to the UAE and Egypt, but that’s set to change with the arrival of the brand’s first resort in the Maldives in 2021.
Address Madivaru Maldives Resort & Spa will be set out across several islands and include a dedicated spa island, water sports island, a myriad of restaurants and bars that will include a floating restaurant, plus beach and water villas for couples and families.
Overwater fitness facilities and several swimming pools will further enhance the leisure options for guests.
Avani Fares, Maldives
Opening: Q4, 2021

Avani hotels’ debut in one of the dreamiest destinations in the world will be Avani Fares Maldives, opening late 2020.
Its location in Baa Atoll mean it benefits from close proximity to nearby dive site Ahivahfushi, making it ideal for snorkelling and scuba diving enthusiasts.
The 200 guest rooms range from standard rooms to luxury villas, while restaurants and bars include a designer deli, all-day dining restaurant and a speciality restaurant.
Note: The above article contains reporting by Condé Nast Traveller.
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NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort celebrates two years of extraordinary hospitality

NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort has marked its second anniversary since becoming part of the NH Collection brand by Minor Hotels. Operating under the upper-upscale NH Collection label since 1 August 2023, the resort has continued to offer immersive guest experiences shaped by the spirit of the Maldives and NH Collection’s commitment to premium service and genuine hospitality.
The anniversary offers a moment to reflect on the resort’s journey in elevating standards while preserving the elements that guests have always cherished: untouched natural surroundings, sincere service, and peaceful seclusion. Over the past two years, the resort has established itself as a sanctuary for couples, families, and solo travellers seeking comfort, exploration, and meaningful connection.
In line with the NH Collection’s ethos to ‘Feel the Extraordinary,’ the resort has embraced a philosophy of exceeding expectations. The team has prioritised delivering seamless stays enriched by thoughtful details, warm hospitality, and inspiring environments. Enhancements have included revitalised dining experiences and updated wellness offerings, all carefully curated to help guests savour every moment.
Key developments over the two-year period include the continued provision of five-star service in a premium setting, the addition of multilingual team members to cater to an international clientele, a strengthened commitment to eco-conscious practices in line with the brand’s sustainability goals, and a refreshed visual identity across both digital and physical touchpoints.
As NH Collection Maldives Havodda Resort enters its third year under the brand, it remains dedicated to refining its signature experience—a harmonious blend of natural beauty, understated elegance, and attentive care.
Reflecting on the occasion, General Manager Frans Westraadt remarked, “Every anniversary is a reminder of what we stand for. We are proud of how far we’ve come in delivering extraordinary stays while staying true to our values. The trust of our guests and the dedication of our team are what fuel us.”
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Fari Islands Festival to feature Michelin-calibre dining and world-class talent this September

This September, the Fari Islands Archipelago in the North Malé Atoll will play host to the inaugural Fari Islands Festival—an immersive celebration of music, art, gastronomy, wellness, and nature, scheduled from 19 to 22 September 2025. The festival promises a convergence of globally acclaimed creatives and thought leaders, including celebrated Canadian poet and illustrator Rupi Kaur, and a display of Amarta, a mesmerising light installation by James Turrell. Among the standout highlights is the guest residency of WAGYUMAFIA, the pioneering Tokyo-based culinary collective renowned for revolutionising the experience of Japanese wagyu, hosted at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands.
As part of the festivities, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives will offer a rare, one-night-only dining experience by WAGYUMAFIA for two fortunate couples on 20 September. This intimate dinner will take place beneath the stars at IWAU, the resort’s signature Japanese restaurant. Founded by self-taught chef Hisato Hamada, WAGYUMAFIA has gained global acclaim for its meticulous craftsmanship, compelling storytelling, and innovative approach to traditional cuisine. Known for its exclusive, invite-only experiences, the brand will present its celebrated wagyu cuisine in the Maldives for the first time.
At IWAU—which means “celebrate” in Japanese—guests will dine in an open-air space where Japanese culinary artistry is showcased through refined techniques, seasonal ingredients, and understated elegance. The minimalist, design-forward setting will provide the perfect backdrop for WAGYUMAFIA’s unique culinary expression.
This extraordinary gastronomic experience is available exclusively through Marriott Bonvoy Moments and is open to Marriott Bonvoy members. The package includes a three-night stay in an Ocean Pool Villa at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, from 19 to 22 September 2025, along with return luxury speedboat transfers from Velana International Airport and daily breakfast at La Locanda. Guests will also enjoy specially curated lunches and dinners at the resort’s acclaimed dining venues, a private dinner for two during the Fari Marina Fiesta, full access to the Fari Islands Festival, and priority reservations for select festival events.
Further enriching the experience are exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities with featured talent, and a special evening hosted by award-winning mixologists from two of the World’s 50 Best Bars—Danico and Nutmeg & Clove—at the Fari Beach Club. The pinnacle of the stay will be the exclusive WAGYUMAFIA dinner at IWAU on 20 September.
This partnership between The Ritz-Carlton Maldives and WAGYUMAFIA epitomises the ethos of the Fari Islands Festival—bringing together world-class artistry, cultural richness, and culinary innovation in a setting of unparalleled beauty. Guests are invited to immerse themselves in this celebration of creativity and luxury, forging lasting memories.
Marriott Bonvoy members may now bid for the exclusive WAGYUMAFIA dinner, access to the Fari Islands Festival, and the three-night stay at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands via Marriott Bonvoy Moments until 21 August 2025.
For those seeking a more expansive festival experience, the resort is also offering the Fari Islands Package. This curated escape includes three-day access to the Fari Islands Festival, an elegant villa stay at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, return luxury speedboat transfers, and daily lunch and dinner at the resort’s signature restaurants. Guests will also be treated to two hosted dinners at select venues within Fari Marina Village on 19 and 21 September, along with two bespoke experiences chosen from the festival’s handpicked collection.
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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort launches Island Journey experience

This season, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort extends an invitation to discerning travellers to experience its exclusive Island Journey offer—an elegant escape curated for those who appreciate effortless luxury from the moment of arrival. Combining thoughtful inclusions with seamless service, the offer promises a stay that is both inspiring and indulgent.
Guests staying a minimum of five nights will receive roundtrip seaplane transfers for two, daily breakfast at ALBA—the resort’s signature dining venue—complimentary access to non-motorised watersports, and the renowned St. Regis Butler Service, which ensures personalised and anticipatory care throughout the stay.
Located in the secluded Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is a haven where avant-garde architecture blends harmoniously with the unspoilt beauty of the Indian Ocean. Surrounded by lush tropical foliage, powder-white sands, and turquoise waters, the resort offers an unrivalled retreat in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations.
The resort features 77 meticulously designed villas, each crafted to complement the natural surroundings. With private terraces, pools, and sweeping views of the ocean or garden, these accommodations set a new standard for island luxury. Among its signature offerings, the overwater John Jacob Astor Estate stands as a symbol of grandeur, boasting three opulent bedrooms, a private gym, and dedicated massage rooms. Meanwhile, the beachfront Caroline Astor Estate captivates with its expansive 67-square-metre infinity pool and elegant living spaces overlooking panoramic vistas.
Guests are invited to explore a range of curated experiences, from snorkelling and diving in the vibrant marine ecosystem to bespoke yacht excursions aboard Norma, the resort’s private luxury vessel. A strong emphasis on sustainability underpins the resort’s operations, with coral restoration programmes led by the in-house Marine Biologist, ensuring the preservation of its underwater world for generations to come.
Whether discovering the wonders beneath the waves, relaxing beneath swaying palms, or indulging in tailored wellness rituals, every moment at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is designed to leave a lasting impression. Available for stays from 1 October to 14 December 2025, and from 10 January to 9 May 2026, this refined escape offers more than a holiday—it is a journey that embodies the true spirit of island sophistication.
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