News
Amari Raaya Maldives’ opening offer: 40% off, free seaplane transfers, and more
Amari Raaya Maldives, the Maldives’ newest luxury destination resort, welcomed its first guests on August 1. In celebration, Amari Raaya Maldives has announced an exclusive opening offer for guests to be some of the first to experience this un-touched island haven, with 40% off room rates, complimentary seaplane transfers for two, a 30-minute private photo shoot, and a memorable group sunset cruise.
The brand-new resort is located on one of the largest natural islands in Raa Atoll – easily accessible just 45 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport. Amari Raaya has been sympathetically designed with much of the lush forest and exquisite natural beauty preserved.
This large island, with its natural greenery and wide range of activities and experiences, presents quite a different option to the ‘typical’ Maldives experiences and, whilst romantic experiences are aplenty, also works well for families and groups. There is much to explore, activities such as diving with the certified PADI instructors to spot the local sea turtles – or swimming with whale sharks, paddle-boarding, jet-skiing or kayaking on the azure blue waters. Extra special experiences are also on offer such as welcoming sundown from atop a canopy of palms or dining on a private corner of the beach.
Couples, families or friends can enjoy spectacular dining, exciting activities and unobstructed ocean views from 187 beach and ocean villas – which each offer direct access to the beach or ocean.
Explore untouched nature
Guests looking to escape the world and relish exquisite natural beauty should look no further. Situated on one of the largest natural islands in Raa Atoll, at 390,000 square metres (39 hectares), Amari Raaya has been sympathetically designed with much of the lush forest reserved for guest enjoyment, including a natural mangrove with forest trails for walking, and sky-high watchtower views to enjoy. Interwoven into the experience is the fictional story of Seb, a portrait artist who was shipwrecked on the island and who has inspired the resort’s concept. Discover the remnants of his castaway story, including his art studio, ship and watchtowers converted to private dining and star-gazing venues.
For families
Not just for couples, Amari Raaya Maldives offers comprehensive facilities for young children and teenagers, from sports to play areas. The kids’ club offers fun for all ages – younger children can enjoy arts and crafts whilst older children can venture out armed with a map and compass in search of puzzles, art and treasure. Families and groups can opt for a Family Beach or Family Beach Pool Villa, a unique accommodation style, offering two-interconnected villas and a shared private outdoor living space for quality time together.
For activity hunters and thrill seekers
The local reef is home to an abundance of ocean life including sea turtles, and in season the famous bioluminescent plankton. Venture into the deep blue Indian Ocean and dive with the onsite certified PADI instructors – spot the local sea turtles, or enjoy fun-filled water activities. Alternatively, guests can try archery, zip lines, mini-golf, paddle tennis, badminton, or take a dip in the two stunning pools.
For romance and relaxation
Romance knows no bounds at Amari Raaya Maldives. Start the day with one of the Maldives’ most iconic experiences – a floating breakfast served in your very own private pool. Relax in the sumptuous Maai Spa, offering unique, personalised treatments inspired by Thai traditions. Later, enjoy a candlelit dinner on the beach surrounded by fresh flower petals as the sun sets beyond the ocean. Alternatively, dine beneath the island’s lush forest canopy, with twinkling lights providing an atmosphere of true romance.
For foodies
Guests will be in gastronomy heaven with seven dining options serving up vibrant flavours, combining Thai, Asian, Maldivian and International cuisine. Each dining destination offers something special, from bustling hawker food stalls at the signature Amaya Food Gallery to sunset snacks and cocktails on rooftops, Italian favourites served poolside, mobile snacks and ice-creams served from a bus, and sumptuous freshly caught seafood daily.
For bucket-list experiences
Those looking to tick something extra special from their life to-do list can take their pick from experiences including welcoming sundown from atop a canopy of palms or dining on a private corner of the beach whilst feeling the sand between your toes and watching the sun slip from the horizon. Or how about the thrill of swimming with whale sharks beneath the ocean waves, or paddle-boarding, jet-skiing or kayaking on the azure blue waters – moments never to be forgotten.
Opening Offer: Up to 40% off stays, complimentary transfers for two, a 30-minute private photo shoot, and a memorable group sunset cruise. The offer is valid for bookings made between 1st August to 23rd December 2023, creating an opportunity for travellers to be among the first to experience this paradise island destination. Rates start from USD 420++ (approximately 380 GBP) per villa per night with daily breakfast.
For reservations and more information, visit the official website of Amari Raaya Maldives.
Featured
Amilla Maldives presents ‘Eid in Harmony’ island celebration
Amilla Maldives is inviting guests to mark Eid al-Fitr with a series of island celebrations under the theme Eid in Harmony, bringing together cultural experiences, family activities and festive dining.
Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is widely celebrated across the Maldives as a time of gathering and shared moments. At Amilla Maldives, the occasion will be observed through a programme of relaxed events designed to reflect the atmosphere of island life and community.
During the celebrations, guests will be able to take part in cultural performances, family-friendly activities and island gatherings highlighting Maldivian traditions. These will include performances of Bodu Beru, interactive island games and creative workshops that offer visitors insight into local culture.
The resort will also present a range of culinary experiences for the occasion. Chefs will prepare festive dishes inspired by both regional and Maldivian flavours, with dining experiences ranging from relaxed daytime offerings by the beach to evening dinners served under the stars.
Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the celebrations are designed to offer guests an opportunity to experience the traditions and atmosphere of Eid in a natural island setting.
Guests interested in the full programme of celebrations can access the resort’s Eid 2026 brochure online.
Featured
SO/ Maldives unveils three-day Easter celebration
SO/ Maldives has announced a three-day Easter programme taking place from 3 to 5 April 2026, featuring dining experiences, sunset gatherings, beach cinema and family activities across the island.
Set against the backdrop of the Maldives’ lagoon waters, the programme is designed to combine culinary events, music and leisure activities, offering guests a variety of experiences over the Easter long weekend.
The celebrations begin on Good Friday, 3 April, with the Ocean Harvest & Wine Soirée at Citronelle Club. The event features a five-course seafood dinner inspired by South African cuisine, accompanied by a curated wine pairing hosted by a master sommelier. The experience will be limited to 20 guests.
Later in the evening, entertainment will continue at Lazuli Beach Club, where the Vintage Nights at Lazuli event will feature curated wines and DJ music in a beachfront setting.
On Saturday, 4 April, guests will be invited to a Golden Hour Sundowner at the Pavilion Bar, where cocktails will be served during sunset overlooking the lagoon.
The evening will continue with the Starlit Holy Saturday Feast at Lazuli Beach Club, featuring a three-course dinner served outdoors. The programme will conclude with an open-air beach cinema experience, where guests can watch a film on the beach accompanied by popcorn and refreshments.
The programme concludes on Easter Sunday, 5 April, with a series of events along the island’s shoreline. The evening begins with Easter Bloom Cocktail Hours, offering floral-inspired drinks prepared with fruit and botanical ingredients.
The highlight of the celebrations will be the Easter Grand Beach Barbecue at Citronelle Club, featuring grilled dishes served in a seaside setting. The event will also include live saxophone performances and music.
Throughout the weekend, children will have access to a dedicated programme at The Nest, where activities will include Easter crafts, egg decorating, dance sessions and an Easter egg hunt. Additional activities such as face painting, piñata games and creative workshops will also be available.
Through its Easter programme, SO/ Maldives aims to provide a mix of dining, entertainment and family-friendly activities, offering guests the opportunity to mark the holiday while enjoying the island setting.
News
Kandooma Maldives focuses on Asian travellers for Eid period
As the Eid-al-Fitr holiday period approaches, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives is turning its focus towards Asian markets, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and the Indian subcontinent, where the festive holiday period often creates opportunities for short-haul leisure travel.
With several days of public holidays across many Asian countries during Eid, the Maldives presents an attractive option for families and expatriate communities seeking a tropical island escape within convenient flying distance.
“Asian markets continue to present strong potential for short-haul leisure travel to the Maldives, particularly during holiday periods such as Eid,” said Sharon Garrett, Director of Marketing & Sustainability at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “For many families, it’s an opportunity to combine the celebrations of Eid with a relaxing island holiday in a safe, welcoming environment surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives.”
Located in the South Malé Atoll, the resort is just 45 minutes by speedboat from the new Velana International Airport terminal in Male, making it one of the more accessible private island resorts for regional travellers arriving via key Asian aviation hubs such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, Mumbai and Colombo.
To mark the Eid holiday period, the resort will host a special celebratory dinner and a programme of family-friendly activities, designed to bring guests together in the spirit of Eid. Visitors can also enjoy a wide range of island experiences, including snorkelling and scuba diving, as well as wellness treatments at Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala.
Families travelling with children are well catered for through the resort’s Kandoo Kids’ Club, alongside the popular IHG Kids Stay & Eat Free programme, which allows children under 13 to stay and dine free when sharing a room with their parents and dining from the kids’ menu when accompanied by adults in the resort’s restaurants.
Accommodation options range from garden and beach villas to spacious two-storey beach houses and overwater villas, appealing to couples and families alike. Two- and three-bedroom accommodation options are ideal for multi-generational families and small groups travelling together during the Eid holiday period.
As the Maldives tourism industry continues to diversify its source markets, regional Asian travellers remain an important segment, particularly during key holiday periods such as Eid.
More information about Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives can be found from the resort’s website.
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