News
What’s new at Vakkaru: Unveiling six reasons to celebrate six-year milestone
As Vakkaru Maldives marks its 6th anniversary this December, the resort commemorates a journey filled with extraordinary achievements and memorable experiences. Since opening its doors on 17 December 2017, it has emerged as a world-renowned leading private island sanctuary, offering unparalleled luxury levels of service, and creating cherished memories for a growing community of loyal guests.
Six reasons to return or to visit Vakkaru for the first time, with exciting developments providing enhanced experiences for our guests, especially catering to the growing demands of the family market.
Luxury Redefined with New Three- & Four-Bedroom Beach Pool Residence
This accommodation can be adapted to guests’ preferences, making it an ideal choice for families or groups seeking an elevated beach getaway. The main residence has a large 42-sqm swimming pool a spacious terrace with an outdoor gazebo overlooking the Indian Ocean. The third and fourth bedrooms have their own Beach Villa with Plunge Pool connected to the main residence, with its own 12-sqm whirlpool.
Enhanced Two Bedroom Beach Residences and Villas
The two-bedroom Residences now boast a newly built indoor living lounge for additional relaxation space. At the same time, the Beach Pool Villas have been upgraded with larger swimming pools for an even more luxurious swim experience.
Multiple Wins at World Travel Awards 2023
Endorsing Vakkaru positioning as a leading luxury resort, for the fourth consecutive year, Vakkaru has been recognized with multiple awards at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2023. These include:
- World’s Leading Luxury Honeymoon Resort 2023
- Indian Ocean’s Leading Hotel Suite 2023
- Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort 2023
- Maldives’ Leading Hotel Suite 2023
This continuous recognition is a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication and commitment towards the unique experiences offered to our guests.
On Resort Photo Studio
The newly constructed photo studio by Yash Lightroom offers guests unique opportunities to plan personalised, professional photoshoots, for those cherished memories.
New Marine Experiences
The resort has introduced an array of new marine experiences led by our new marine biologist, Lydia Glinski. The programmes are designed for young explorers and adults including “Be A Marine Biologist for a Day,” and dedicated PADI specialty diving courses and a Coral Adoption programme.
Key Appointments in Sales & Marketing Team
Vakkaru Maldives announced two key appointments to its Sales & Marketing team, Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing, Sian Thomas, with over two decades of experience and having previously served as the Director of Sales & Marketing, in leading Luxury Resorts in the Maldives and Dubai.
Afaag Ibrahim, a Maldivian with a great reputation and exceptional leadership skills, joined as Director of Sales.
Located in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its spectacular sea life, Vakkaru Maldives is a timeless sanctuary recently named the Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort in the World Travel Awards. An awe -inspiring 30-minute seaplane ride from Velana International Airport takes you to this secluded reef island, shaded by coconut palms and blessed with calming ocean views and powder-soft white-sand beaches. Here 113 beautifully appointed Overwater and Beach Villas are elegantly designed to respect their surroundings, while exceptional dining experiences and amenities await in six restaurants, two bars and a wine cellar. Among our industry-leading offerings is overwater Merana Spa, complete with an Ayurveda practice and a regular host to residencies by the world’s most inspiring wellness practitioners. Children and teens are generously catered for in the Parrotfish Club and Coconut Club respectively, while guests of all ages can play against world-famous pros through a best-in-class coaching partnership with Tipsarevic Luxury Tennis or play each other on the padel tennis court. Splash offers a host of thrilling water sports, ocean excursions, private luxury yachts as well as coral adoption programmes.
Awards
Dusit Thani Maldives ranked among Maldives’ top pools and spas in Travel + Leisure awards
Dusit Thani Maldives has announced its recognition in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026, earning two distinctions in the Maldives category.
The resort was ranked #6 in Maldives Best Resort Pools, while Devarana Spa was ranked #7 in Maldives Best Resort Spas.
Set on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Dusit Thani Maldives offers a serene island escape where Thai-inspired gracious hospitality meets the natural beauty of the Maldives. The resort’s expansive pool, surrounded by tropical greenery and steps from the Indian Ocean, remains one of its most loved spaces for guests to relax, reconnect and enjoy the rhythm of island life.
The recognition for Devarana Wellness further highlights the resort’s focus on meaningful wellbeing experiences. Nestled among the island’s lush palms, the treetop treatment rooms offer a peaceful setting for restorative therapies, mindful rituals and wellness journeys inspired by nature.
“We are truly honoured to be recognised by Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2026,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager Maldives, Dusit International. “These awards mean a great deal to us because they reflect the experiences our guests continue to enjoy and appreciate. From relaxing poolside moments to deeply restorative wellness journeys, our team takes pride in creating memorable stays that feel both personal and connected to the beauty of our island.”
This latest recognition adds to Dusit Thani Maldives’ growing list of international accolades and reinforces the resort’s position as a leading luxury island retreat in the Maldives.
For more information, please visit the resort’s website.
Family
Art, sport and island adventure shape JOALI Maldives Summer Camp 2026
JOALI Maldives, the first and only art-immersive resort in the Maldives, has presented its Summer Camp 2026 programme, running from 1 July to 31 August 2026. Set against the backdrop of the Island of Joy, the immersive summer experience invites families to discover a world of creativity, adventure, culture and connection through an inspiring calendar of activities, workshops and exclusive residencies with internationally acclaimed artists, athletes and culinary talents.
Rooted in the resort’s joy of Creative Living philosophy, Summer Camp 2026 is designed for the whole family – a season of shared discovery where guests of all ages can engage with remarkable creators, explore new crafts and be inspired by extraordinary talent. From contemporary sculpture and heritage weaving to chocolate artistry and Olympic-level athletics, each residency offers a different lens through which to experience the world.

Younger guests aged 4 to 12 are also invited into a world of their own at Muramas Kids Club, where a dedicated programme of hands-on activities and island adventures runs throughout the summer, complementing the wider residency calendar and ensuring every member of the family finds their own moment of joy.
A remarkable group of creators, visionaries, and champions join JOALI Maldives, bringing new perspectives, creative practices and inspiring experiences to the island.

Aurélie Hoegy
Contemporary Artist and Designer | Residency: 16 – 21 July 2026
Aurélie Hoegy is a French multidisciplinary artist whose work explores the forms, textures and movement found throughout the natural world. Known for her handcrafted sculptural installations, including the JOALI Hammock at JOALI Maldives, Aurélie works with natural fibres and organic forms to create immersive pieces that invite curiosity, participation and discovery.
Workshops & Activities:
- Tapestry Weaving Experience – Recommended for ages: 4 – 12 years (Complimentary)
- Illuminated Jellyfish Craft – Recommended for ages: 12+ years
Laima Laurina
Ceramic Artist and Sculptor | Residency: 30 July – 2 August 2026
Laima Laurina is a Latvian ceramic artist whose handcrafted porcelain creations are inspired by the textures, colours and quiet rhythms of the natural world. Laima explores the relationship between craftsmanship and creativity, transforming raw materials into delicate works that celebrate curiosity, care and attention to detail.
Workshops & Activities:
- Porcelain Studio – Recommended for ages: 4 – 12 years (Complimentary)
Hidhana Latheef
Heritage Artist and Designer | Residency: 7 – 10 August 2026
Hidhana Latheef is a Maldivian heritage craft artist and designer dedicated to preserving and reimagining the traditional art of Kasabu Viyun – an intricate weaving technique that combines gold and silver threads into decorative patterns passed down through generations.
Workshops & Activities:
- Kasabu Viyun: Heritage Craft Workshop – Recommended for ages: 8+ years (Complimentary)
Nicola Adams Obe
Olympic Gold Medallist Boxer | Residency: 17 – 19 August 2026
Nicola Adams OBE is a double Olympic gold medallist and a celebrated athlete in British sporting history. Widely recognised for her determination and pioneering achievements, Nicola’s journey has inspired people around the world to pursue their goals with confidence and self-belief.
Workshops & Activities:
- Train Like a Champion – Family fitness & boxing-inspired workshop – Recommended for ages: 8+ years (Complimentary)
- Elite Fitness Session – Recommended for ages: 12+ years (Complimentary)
Melissa Coppel
Master Chocolatier and Pastry Chef | Residency: 22 – 26 August 2026
Melissa Coppel is a master chocolatier whose creations transform chocolate into expressions of flavour, craftsmanship and design. Her work explores the intersection of artistry and pâtisserie, where technique and creativity come together in unexpected ways.
Workshops & Activities:
- Chocolate Ateliers – Recommended for ages: 4 – 12 years (Complimentary)
Raya Mansoor
Contemporary Artist | Residency: 23rd–29th August 2026
Raya Mansoor is a Maldivian contemporary artist known for bold, expressive canvases that pulse with colour and emotion. Co-founder of Oevaali Art Shop and named in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia 2026, Raya brings her ongoing Avi series to JOALI Maldives, creating a new large-scale original work and inviting guests into her creative world.
Guests are also invited to attend an Artist Showcase & Exhibition – a curated presentation of works, including the piece created during her residency, hosted alongside an exclusive on-site guest event.

Muramas Kids’ Activities
To complement the artist and talent residencies, a rich programme of daily complimentary activities will also be available to all young guests at Muramas Kids Club.
Highlights include:
- Laser Tag – Dodge, hide and tag your way through exciting team challenges.
- Little Chefs – Discover the joy of cooking through fun hands-on culinary creations.
- Polaroid Photography Workshop – Capture favourite island memories through instant photography.
- DIY Mosaic Art – Design colourful masterpieces inspired by the island’s natural beauty.
- Basket Weaving Workshop – Learn traditional weaving techniques and create your own keepsake.
- Puppet Workshop & Performance – Craft unique puppets and bring stories to life through performance.
- Tie-Dye Sessions – Twist, colour and create vibrant wearable artwork.
- Eco Heroes: Trash to Treasure – Transform recycled materials into creative works while learning about sustainability.
- Boduberu Workshop – Experience the rhythm and energy of traditional Maldivian drumming.
- Glow Games – Enjoy interactive glow-in-the-dark games after sunset.
- Stargazing – Discover constellations and stories hidden within the night sky.
- Balloon Art – Shape colourful balloons into imaginative creations.
- Pool Battles & Water Games – Splash into friendly competitions and aquatic adventures.
- Beach Spike Ball – A fast-paced beach game focused on teamwork and fun.
- Outdoor Badminton – Enjoy friendly matches under the Maldivian sun.
- Tennis Clinics – Develop new skills and confidence on the court.
- Junior Archery – Learn precision, focus and coordination through beginner-friendly archery.

For bookings and further information, please visit the resort’s website or contact reservations.jomv@joali.com.
Awards
Alila Kothaifaru recognised among top 10% of hotels worldwide
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, a Hyatt resort, has been recognised with the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2026, placing the resort among the top 10% of hotels worldwide based on reviews and ratings shared by travellers over the past year.
Unlike awards determined by industry panels, the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award reflects the experiences of guests themselves. From memorable marine encounters and thoughtfully curated dining experiences to the genuine hospitality of the resort’s team, the recognition highlights the moments that guests continue to remember long after their stay.

Situated in the pristine Raa Atoll and surrounded by a vibrant house reef, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives has become a favourite among travellers seeking a balance of contemporary luxury and meaningful connection with nature. Guest reviews frequently describe the resort as a “slice of paradise,” praising its attentive service, tranquil atmosphere, beautiful villas, exceptional dining, and unforgettable snorkeling experiences.
Many guests have highlighted the warmth and sincerity of the resort’s team, noting how personalised gestures and intuitive service transformed their stay into something truly memorable. Others have shared glowing reviews of the island’s marine life, from encounters with sea turtles, eagle rays and black tip reef sharks just steps from their villa to excursions in search of manta rays and dolphins in the surrounding waters.

The recognition follows the resort’s TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Award in 2025, reaffirming its reputation as one of the Maldives’ most highly regarded luxury island retreats.
“What stands out most when reading our TripAdvisor reviews is how closely the island and its people are connected in our guests’ memories. They speak about the turquoise lagoon, the vibrant house reef, and the sense of tranquility they find here, but they also remember the waiter who knew their morning coffee order, the chef who thoughtfully accommodated their dietary preferences, the dive instructor who guided their first underwater adventure, or the villa host who added a personal touch to a special celebration,” said Abdul Salam Ahmed, Guest Experience Manager.
“Luxury is often measured by beautiful villas, exceptional cuisine, or breathtaking scenery. While we are fortunate to offer all of these, true luxury is something far less tangible. It is the luxury of uninterrupted time, of complete peace of mind, and of feeling genuinely cared for by a team that anticipates every need. What resonates most deeply with our guests is not simply what they see, but how they feel when they are here,” said Thomas Weber, General Manager of Alila Kothaifaru Maldives.

Inspired by the stories and feedback shared by its guests, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives continues to shape experiences that celebrate the island’s natural beauty, rich marine environment, and genuine hospitality—creating memories that linger long after the journey home.
Rather than simply being a destination to visit, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives strives to be a place guests return to in their memories and increasingly, in person.
For more information, visit the resort’s website.
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