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Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Resort reopens
In the southern corner of the Maldives an idyllic paradise can be discovered, surrounded by the crystal-clear Indian Ocean, and offering the legendary service of Raffles.
Raffles Maldives Meradhoo is now open, welcoming guests from July 16 to experience unadulterated luxury in one of the world’s largest and most remote natural atolls.
Spanning across two islands, the resort offers 38 magnificent beachfront and overwater villas abundant with space. The unmatched open and airy rooms come at the pleasure and privilege of being the islands’ sole resort, boasting seclusion unlike any other.
Reflecting the natural beauty of the island, rooms are enhanced with beautiful soft sky blue and duck egg, adorned with luxurious furnishings including the famed Raffles’ writer’s desk. Guests can marvel at the vibrant sea life bustling below the glass panel on the terrace of the overwater villas.
Situated close to the equator results in the peak display of the natural environment, with sparkling waters and soft, pearly sand. The brilliant habitat lends itself to unbelievable diving and snorkelling experiences, rife with dynamic marine life and the entire ocean to explore.
With endless activities crafted for the adventurous and curious souls, plunge into thrilling watersports or big game fishing, or take part in paradisical excursions.
Build confidence through diving courses with experienced instructors and truly explore all that the vast, magical waters have to offer.
For the calmer dispositions looking to rejuvenate, look to the Raffles Spa, where guests can unwind in a haven of serenity. Set over the water and open to the sky above, submit to native ingredients and ancient rituals, revelling in their therapeutic power.
A marine utopia, wherever guests stay, the best of the Maldives is at their disposal. The resort invites you to discover and understand one of mother nature’s most beautiful masterpieces.
Explore the resort’s two remarkable house reefs, led by a unique Marine Butler, who is available to all guests and will happily lead snorkelling tours around the astoundingly clear waters, abundant with colourful wildlife.
The resort is an ocean-lover’s paradise, as the on-site is passionate, resident Marine Biologist, Dr Giulia Pellizzato. Connecting guests to the marine environment directly, she gives educational presentations, as well as daily snorkelling trips. With over 10 years’ experience of research studies and diving, you are invited to participate in her coral growth and seawater monitoring projects, and witness the beauty of the Maldives truly come to life.
Feel the awe of the Raffles experience from the first steps into Male, with a warm traditional welcome. Receive the VIP treatment with the Raffles butler service, intuitive, discreet and personalised to every need.
Immerse in the finery of the restaurants and bars, and enjoy the freshest ingredients blending to create the perfect mix of international and local cuisine. Experience Thari, where guests can enjoy an open, relaxed atmosphere on the beachfront. Firepit serves delicious barbecue bursting with flavour, while Yuzu offers diverse Nikkei cuisine.
Bask in the glow of the sunset at Yapa Sunset Bar or head to Long Bar for the world’s most prestigious beverages, set in the most tranquil, elegant ambiance.
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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