Awards
Dusit Thani Maldives achieves Google Eco-Certification for exemplary sustainable tourism efforts

Dusit Thani Maldives has proudly secured the esteemed Google Eco-Certification as a tribute to its exceptional commitment to sustainable tourism practices and proactive environmental conservation.
The Google Eco-Certification stands as a testament to Dusit Thani Maldives’ unyielding dedication to advancing eco-conscious hospitality and reducing the resort’s carbon footprint, all while delivering unrivaled guest experiences. This accomplishment underscores the resort’s persistent pursuit of harmonizing luxury, nature, and responsible tourism.
Mr. Reinhold Johann, General Manager at Dusit Thani Maldives, expressed his gratitude, stating, “The Google Eco-Certification is a profound honor for Dusit Thani Maldives, reflecting our unwavering pledge to preserving the environment and fostering responsible travel. We firmly believe that luxury and sustainability can seamlessly coexist, and this recognition propels us to innovate further and lead the charge in sustainable tourism both in the Maldives and on a global scale.”
Dusit Thani Maldives has implemented a variety of initiatives aimed at diminishing its ecological impact and nurturing the local ecosystem, including:
Energy Efficiency: The resort has invested substantially in energy-efficient technologies and systems, such as solar panels and LED lighting, resulting in a noteworthy reduction in energy consumption.
Water Conservation: Employing advanced water management techniques, Dusit Thani Maldives has successfully minimized water usage through strategies like desalination processes and the incorporation of water-saving fixtures.
Marine Conservation: The resort actively participates in marine conservation endeavors, including coral propagation initiatives and routine reef clean-ups, with a primary focus on safeguarding and rejuvenating the delicate marine ecosystem of the Maldives.
Community Engagement: Collaborating closely with local communities, Dusit Thani Maldives spearheads educational and sustainability projects, instilling a sense of responsibility towards nature and bolstering the livelihoods of nearby residents.
Waste Management: With a robust emphasis on waste reduction, recycling, and environmentally-conscious waste disposal methods, the resort takes deliberate actions to prevent the contamination of both land and oceans.
The Google Eco-Certification serves as a distinct emblem of Dusit Thani Maldives’ resolute commitment to ecologically sound operations. Through the attainment of this esteemed certification, the resort aspires to inspire other participants within the hospitality sector to embrace sustainable practices and actively contribute to the preservation of our planet.
In the year 2022, Dusit Hotels and Resorts solidified its position as the pioneering hotel chain in Thailand to procure 100% organic jasmine rice across all its properties within the nation. This sourcing is achieved through direct purchases from small-scale farms in northeastern Thailand, which not only furnishes nutritional benefits to patrons and personnel but also generates a sustainable income stream for the supported communities. Furthermore, the company initiated the procurement of cage-free eggs for six of its hotels, with plans to extend similar projects as part of its ongoing enhancement of supply chain management.
Awards
Equator Village wins Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport Hotel 2025 at World Travel Awards

Equator Village has once again been honoured as the Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport Hotel at the World Travel Awards 2025, held on 28 June in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. This marks the third consecutive year the resort has received this prestigious accolade, following earlier wins in 2023 and 2024, underscoring its commitment to service excellence and consistent guest satisfaction.
Mohamed Waheed, Resort Manager at Equator Village, expressed pride in the achievement, stating that the recognition reflects the dedication, creativity, and hard work of the entire team. He highlighted their commitment to delivering warm, personalised service and creating welcoming spaces that resonate with the charm and hospitality of the south. Waheed also extended gratitude to the resort’s guests and partners for their continued support and trust.
Celebrating over three decades of recognising hospitality excellence, the World Travel Awards is regarded as one of the most esteemed honours in global tourism. Winners are selected through a rigorous international voting process involving both travel professionals and the public.
Located just a five-minute drive from Gan International Airport, Equator Village offers exceptional convenience along with the relaxed charm of the southern Maldives. The resort features 78 spacious bungalows surrounded by lush flower gardens, alongside facilities including a beachfront restaurant, bar, pool, gym, and meeting spaces – all infused with tropical flair and heartfelt southern hospitality.
Awards
Dhawa Ihuru recognised among Maldives’ Best House Reefs by Travel + Leisure Asia

Dhawa Ihuru has been named one of the Best House Reefs in the Maldives by Travel + Leisure Asia in its esteemed Luxury Awards 2025. Renowned as a stylish retreat for diving enthusiasts, the resort’s house reef—home to reef sharks, turtles, eagle rays, and vibrant coral ecosystems—continues to attract and inspire travellers from across the globe.
This accolade goes beyond recognition, reflecting over two decades of steadfast dedication to marine conservation, scientific research, and coral restoration. These efforts have transformed the house reef into a living testament to sustainable tourism.
Since the establishment of the Banyan Group’s Marine Lab in 2004—the first resort-based conservation and research facility in the Maldives—Dhawa Ihuru has been at the forefront of environmental responsibility. Through long-term coral preservation projects and guest-focused educational initiatives, the resort has consistently promoted biodiversity and sustainability.
Guests at Dhawa Ihuru are invited to participate in a range of conservation efforts, including:
- Coral planting and reef regeneration
- Reef monitoring alongside marine biologists
- Turtle identification and tracking
- Sustainability workshops and marine talks
- Community engagement programmes
These hands-on experiences not only aid in ecosystem restoration but also nurture awareness and a sense of shared responsibility among travellers.
“This recognition is a reflection of our long-standing commitment to marine protection,” said Elias Pertoft, General Manager of Dhawa Ihuru and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru. “What began as a vision nearly three decades ago has evolved into a living legacy of conservation. We are proud to continue nurturing one of the Maldives’ most biodiverse reefs—not only for our guests, but for future generations.”
Nick, Marine Lab Manager at the resort, added, “Over the past 20 years, our immersive marine biodiversity programmes, including hands-on conservation activities, have provided both educational and inspiring experiences. By involving our guests, we are enriching their stay and fostering a global community of marine stewards.”
To commemorate this achievement and celebrate the resort’s flourishing marine environment, Dhawa Ihuru will host the Rannamaari Dive Fest on 24 July 2025—a full-day celebration running from 10 AM to 10 PM. Inspired by the legendary Rannamaari shipwreck, the event will showcase the vibrancy of island life both above and below the waterline.
Event highlights include:
- Underwater treasure hunts for divers and non-divers
- Marine conservation talks and activities with the resort’s Marine Lab team
- Cultural and creative island experiences, such as Maldivian arts & crafts with local artists, a Maldivian cooking class, a DIY wellbeing workshop, and family-friendly activities
- A sunset cocktail celebration at Velavani Bar, followed by a beachfront DJ night
Travellers are invited to take part in this unique celebration that blends adventure, culture, and conservation—honouring one of the Maldives’ most iconic house reefs and contributing to its protection for generations to come.
Action
Dive for free at Kandooma, just named Maldives’ leading dive resort

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has been crowned ‘Maldives Leading Dive Resort 2025’ at the prestigious World Travel Awards, marking a major milestone as the inaugural winner of this newly introduced category.
The announcement was made at a glittering gala ceremony held on 29 June in Tanzania, attended by tourism and hospitality leaders from across Africa and the Indian Ocean. The accolade honours Kandooma’s commitment to exceptional diving experiences and innovation in accessible underwater tourism.
“We’re surrounded by some of the most awe-inspiring marine life in the Maldives – it’s truly like diving in a living aquarium,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “From graceful manta rays and reef sharks to turtles, moray eels, and vast schools of tropical fish, our waters are teeming with life.”
Just minutes from the resort are world-class dive sites including Kandooma Thila, a renowned cleaning station for grey reef sharks; Guraidhoo Corner, famous for its strong currents and pelagic encounters; and Medhu Faru, where divers drift alongside vibrant coral walls. The close proximity of these sites allows for up to three dives a day – ideal for enthusiasts chasing underwater thrills.
Central to Kandooma’s diving success is its bold ‘Dive Free’ initiative – a game-changer for the scuba community. Guests who stay three nights or more and are certified divers receive two complimentary boat dives per day, including equipment and professional guidance.
“Diving can be an expensive pursuit, so we decided to flip the script,” Eletr added. “Our ‘Dive Free’ program removes the barriers and makes the underwater magic of the Maldives accessible to more people than ever.”
Kandooma’s on-site 5-star PADI dive centre offers courses for beginners through to advanced, specialty certifications and refreshers, as well as private excursions for underwater photography, night dives, and wreck explorations.
With its commitment to sustainability, marine preservation, and guest experience, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has proven that world-class diving doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag – just a sense of adventure.
For more information or to book a diving escape, visit: www.maldives.holidayinnresorts.com
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