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OBLU SELECT Sangeli: Microcosm of sustainable stewardship
Situated in the North-Western tip of Malé Atoll, Maldives is the island of Sangeli, home to OBLU SELECT Sangeli. This luxury five star resort is operated by the popular Indian Ocean hospitality brand Atmosphere Hotels and Resorts, who have chosen Green Globe to certify the sustainable operations of their OBLU, OZEN and Atmosphere resorts.
Atmosphere Hotels and Resorts’ Sustainability Management Plan is applied across their group of properties and states its desire to, “Carry out its business in line with our company’s guiding principles of being conscious of global environment issues and acknowledge our responsibility towards the environment. While the well-being of our guests remains the fore-front, we commit ourselves to carrying out operations in a sustainable manner, taking every step to minimise operational impact on, and preserve the environment wherever we operate.”
OBLU SELECT Sangeli is a 50 minute boat ride from the Maldives capital of Malé. The Resort is a popular destination for nature lovers with snorkeling and diving in the inner lagoon and outer reef. The Resort has its own in-house Marine Biologist dedicated to raising awareness about environmental issues faced by the planet, while leading marine talks and interacting with guests.
Scientist and diver, Giorgia Maggioni says, “Throughout my studies, I’ve always been passionate about corals. Working as Marine Biologist at OBLU SELECT Sangeli allows me to actively contribute to the preservation of the most diverse ecosystem, the coral reef, through its restoration and rehabilitation. Meanwhile, being in a resort environment, I get an opportunity to educate our guests and I take pride in showing them our successful coral restoration project and all the sustainability measures adopted by the resort.”
Being located on an Indian Ocean atoll island, the management of OBLU SELECT Sangeli are committed to do the best they can to mitigate the causes of climate change and protect their paradise. Since going solar in 2020, the resort has generated 1,327,082 Kwh of electricity, which has reduced diesel generation by 358,671 litres. This is a carbon reduction of 947 tonnes of CO2e, or the equivalent of 379 round trips flights between the UK and the Maldives.
The vegetation across the island is precious and vital to OBLU SELECT Sangeli’s ongoing operations and managing water resources is therefore vitality important. The iconic tropical Coconut Palm flourishes on Sangeli as it is endemic to the Maldives. The grey water produced by the resort is recycled so it can be safely used for irrigation of the Coconuts Palms – the Maldives national tree – and all island vegetation. The resort produces potable water via desalination and bottles its own drinking water in reusable glass. While the resort also collects rainwater, it prides itself on educating staff and guests on water saving behaviours so none of this valuable resource is wasted.
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.
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.
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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