News
Minor expands presence in Maldives with new NH Hotels resort at Kuda Rah
Minor Hotels, a leading hospitality group with more than 550 hotels in 56 countries, has announced the arrival of the first NH Hotels & Resorts branded property in the Indian Ocean, with NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort set to open its doors on 01 September 2024.
Located in South Ari Atoll, approximately 25 minutes by seaplane from the capital Malé, NH Maldives Kuda Rah will offer marine enthusiasts unparalleled access to some of the world’s most spectacular diving and snorkelling sites. Right in their backyard holidaymakers will find the legendary Kuda Rah Thila, an underwater pinnacle teeming with vibrantly coloured soft corals and frequented by majestic marine life like blue striped snappers, turtles, napoleons and even the occasional white tip or grey reef shark.
The atoll is also a well-known hotspot for some of the Maldives’ largest marine wildlife, meaning whale shark and manta ray spotting adventures – along with more than 50 established dive sites – are only a short boat ride away from the resort.
NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort is an intimate hideaway, with just 51 modern deluxe suites and villas, each boasting an inner courtyard or beach-facing pool, and generously sized between 90 to 231 square metres. Inside, a calming blend of solid wood floors, a palette of chalky whites and creams with ocean-blue accents, and charming pitched roofs create a restful space that celebrates Maldivian topography.
Culinary experiences at NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort unfold to unhurried rhythms of the ocean. Sea Spray, overlooking the resort’s central infinity pool, offers sustained vitality throughout the day, with a menu that zigzags from breakfast favourites to inventive vegetarian dishes. Glow, the chic bar and lounge, ensures thirst-quenching beverages and delectable snacks are never far away. At Malaa, a captivating open-air show kitchen, guests can explore seafood-driven Maldivian cuisine through cooking classes accompanied by captivating music performances. For the ultimate indulgence, in-villa or bespoke beachside dining experiences can be arranged on request.
At the spa, the treatment menu is a holistic fusion of serenity and energy, with a focus on traditional Balinese and Thai massages alongside therapeutic options infused with local touches. Three tranquil treatment rooms, each equipped with a private steam room and Jacuzzi, offer a haven of relaxation, complemented by a dedicated manicure and pedicure room. A state-of-the-art gym caters to fitness enthusiasts, ensuring a healthy routine is seamlessly maintained. Young guests will be entertained at the dedicated indoor kids’ club, and babysitting services provide peace of mind for parents.
Christophe Adam, General Manager of NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort, said: “We are proud to introduce NH Kuda Rah Resort Maldives as the first NH branded property in the Indian Ocean. Our resort is designed to provide guests with an intimate experience that is deeply connected to the natural beauty of the Maldives. Whether it’s diving at the renowned Kuda Rah Thila, enjoying the serene surroundings from their private villas, or embarking on watersport adventures like parasailing, we are dedicated to ensuring that every moment spent here is unforgettable.”
The resort caters to a wide range of interests, making it easy for guests to pause their busy lives and fall into a relaxed routine. Honeymooners can explore the beauty of the Maldivian archipelago through island hopping excursions, while families can delve deeper into the underwater world with exceptional diving and snorkelling experiences, as well as participating in coral planting initiatives, contributing to the restoration of the vibrant local ecosystem. Meanwhile, whale shark excursions and big game fishing expeditions promise unforgettable adventures infused with adrenaline.
“Minor Hotels has long been one of the largest global hospitality operators in the Maldives, a destination of immense strategic importance for our group,” said Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of parent company Minor International. “Adding to our luxury portfolio, the introduction of NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort marks our first upscale property in the archipelago, as we expand our reach and deliver a stunning Maldives experience to guests seeking the perfect blend of indulgence and accessibility. This property represents our commitment to diversifying our portfolio while maintaining the high standards of quality and service that our guests have come to expect from Minor Hotels.”
The opening of NH Kuda Rah brings Minor Hotels’ portfolio of properties in the Maldives to eight, and follows the debut of NH Collection to the archipelago last year. It also marks the third resort property globally under the NH Hotels & Resorts brand, following NH Marina Portimao Resort in Portugal and the opening last year of NH Boat Lagoon Phuket Resort in Thailand.
NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort is accessible via a 25-minute seaplane journey from Malé, followed by a 5-10 minute transfer by speed boat or traditional Dhoni.
For further information about NH Kuda Rah Resort Maldives, please visit https://world.nh-hotels.com/en/nh-maldives-kuda-rah.
VARU by Atmosphere has unveiled the Kaagé Progressive Maldivian Cookbook, bringing the flavours and culinary heritage of the Maldives to life through an immersive new experience. As part of the island experience, guests can enjoy private cooking masterclasses, offering a hands-on connection to authentic local flavours and the opportunity to take home the beautiful cookbook as a memento.
At Kaagé, the award-winning speciality restaurant, guests embark on a culinary journey through the history and traditions of the Maldivian islands. Time-honoured local recipes are paired with modern culinary techniques, allowing the distinctive flavours of the Maldives to be recreated in kitchens around the world.
Held on 20th August, the exclusive cookbook launch event brought together journalists, culinary influencers and resort guests, who joined the resort’s chef team for an interactive masterclass. The session explored local ingredients including skipjack tuna, coconut and fiery Scotch bonnet chillies, offering participants an authentic taste of Maldivian culinary traditions.
“These immersive cooking classes are now a permanent part of your resort experience. Kaagé is a tribute to the vibrant culinary identity of the Maldives,” says Maurice Van Den Bosch, General Manager at VARU by Atmosphere. “Through our cookbook and masterclasses, we invite you to connect deeply with island culture. We look forward to sharing these traditions with you.”
VARU by Atmosphere is a naturally Maldivian island escape in North Malé Atoll, just a 45-minute speedboat journey from Malé. Blending authentic Maldivian culture with contemporary elegance, the resort offers an intimate island experience centred around warm hospitality, vibrant dining, wellness and immersive experiences. From its distinctive overwater villas and unique overwater cellar to its island-inspired cuisine and commitment to sustainability, VARU by Atmosphere celebrates the essence of the Maldives while offering a refined and relaxed tropical retreat.
The Kaagé Progressive Maldivian Cookbook is available exclusively to participants of cooking masterclass. To discover more or reserve your spot, visit www.varu-atmosphere.com or contact reservations@varu-atmosphere.com.
Bestbuy Maldives (BBM) has presented a brand-new Honda Airblade motorbike to the winner of a lucky draw held to mark the opening of its newest wholesale outlet in Hulhumalé Phase 2.
The outlet, located at Lot 20286 on Nirolhu Magu, opened on 16 February 2026 as part of BBM’s expansion of its wholesale operations.
To celebrate the opening and thank customers for their continued support, BBM introduced a special lucky draw exclusively for customers who made purchases from the new outlet on its opening day.
Customers who purchased products during the opening were eligible to enter the draw, with a Honda Airblade motorbike offered as the grand prize.
The lucky draw was conducted on 13 August 2026, with Ibrahim Shifaz of Vagthun Vaguthah outlet selected as the winner.
Shifaz was recently presented with the ceremonial key to the Honda Airblade by AVS Subrahmanyam, Chief Operating Officer of Bestbuy Maldives.
The promotion formed part of BBM’s activities surrounding the opening of its Hulhumalé Phase 2 outlet, which provides customers with access to the company’s range of wholesale products from the growing residential and commercial area.
Bestbuy Maldives is a supplier and distributor serving businesses across the Maldives, including customers in the hospitality, food service and retail sectors.
SUSHISAMBA Dubai, the multi-award-winning dining destination perched 51 floors above The Palm Jumeirah, is taking its renowned energy to the shores of the Indian Ocean. From Friday, September 25 to Sunday, September 27 September 2026, SUSHISAMBA Dubai arrives at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands for an exclusive three-night pop-up at EAU Bar, spotlighting Dubai’s thriving hospitality scene on an international stage.
Highlighting Dubai’s status as a global dining capital, this island takeover brings together two powerhouses of luxury hospitality. Running nightly from 7PM to 10PM with two dinner seatings, the pop-up features a curated dining experience led by Brand Chef Kitak Lee, brought to life by live performances from SUSHISAMBA’s iconic samba dancers, a signature element that made the venue one of Dubai’s most sought-after spots, for an unforgettable celebration by the sea.
Set against the pristine oceanfront backdrop of EAU Bar at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, a ultra-luxury resort known for its legendary Aris Meeha service, immersive Maldivian traditions, and world-class epicurean offerings across its island destinations, guests will experience SUSHISAMBA’s signature blend of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian culture. The exclusive pop-up will feature a bespoke menu of signature dishes crafted with the highest standards of culinary artistry, complemented by SUSHISAMBA’s bar team serving craft cocktails infused with exotic ingredients.
“This collaboration marks an exciting milestone as we take the electric spirit and culinary excellence of SUSHISAMBA Dubai to one of the world’s most spectacular luxury destinations,” said Brand Chef Kitak Lee. “We look forward to bringing our signature blend of flavours, theatrical energy, and world- class hospitality to EAU Bar for three unforgettable nights.”
Whether dining under the stars or enjoying inventive mixology by the ocean, guests can expect an immersive journey defined by elevated dining, dynamic entertainment, and the unmistakable SUSHISAMBA spirit.
Event Details:
Venue: EAU Bar, at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
Dates: September 25–27 2026
Seating Schedule:
Friday, September 25:
- First Seating: 6:30 PM–8:30 PM
- Second Seating: 8:30 PM–10:30 PM
Saturday, September 26 & Sunday, September 27:
- First Seating: 6:30 PM–8:30 PM
- Second Seating: 8:30 PM–10:30 PM
For bookings and more information, please contact the reservations team at +960 400 0999 or maldives.reservations@ritzcarlton.com, or visit The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands website here.
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