Featured
LUX* South Ari Atoll contributes to local NGO Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme
LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas rounded off the year by celebrating its community initiative with a donation of USD 10,092 (€8,700) to a local non-profit organisation and long-term partner, Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWSRP).
The donation was raised in October 2021 in conjunction with LUX* Resorts & Hotels’ 10th anniversary, where a 10-night stay was auctioned off to the highest bidder.
Through the group’s Instagram page, LUX* South Ari Atoll presented a prize of a 10-night stay in a Romantic Pool Water Villa to support their chosen local non-profit organisation.
The Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme is a research-based conservation charity dedicated to the study of the gentle giants and fostering community-focused conservation initiatives in the Maldives as well as the greater Indian Ocean.

“We are grateful to all the followers that have participated in this auction and helped us celebrate our milestone – 10 years of helping people celebrate life,” Patrice Aira, General Manager at LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas, said.
“Our Marine Biology team has been working closely with MWSRP over the past nine years by collecting data on the whale sharks that we spot on the excursions and submitting it to MWSRP’s research database. As one of the largest resort islands in the destination, we are committed to leading the way with eco-tourism and marine conservation work in our community and region.”
Richard Rees, co-founder and managing director of MWSRP, was equally excited about this celebration.
“Like many grassroots conservation organisations, this pandemic has hit our charity hard. This donation is hugely appreciated and will be used funding the redevelopment and relaunching of our Whale Shark App and the Big Fish Network – an active citizen science portal which aims to increase community and stakeholder involvement towards the research and conservation of the whale sharks in the Maldives,” Rees said.
“This donation will also be a great help in creating more training and briefing tools for guides as well as expanding the awareness campaigns.”
For the latest updates and news, follow LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas on Instagram and Facebook
Featured
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives aligns festive events with World of Care commitments
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.
Awards
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo wins triple honours at World Luxury Awards 2025
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.
Awards
Hat-trick for Pullman Maldives Maamutaa at 2025 World Luxury Awards
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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