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.
Drink
THE OZEN COLLECTION marks four years of partnership with Bodegas Viñátigo

THE OZEN COLLECTION has marked four years of partnership with Bodegas Viñátigo, the Tenerife-based winery recognised for reviving nearly-lost grape varieties from the Canary Islands. For more than three decades, the winery’s vineyards, cultivated in volcanic soils, have preserved traditional winemaking heritage, a philosophy that aligns with THE OZEN COLLECTION’s focus on authentic, terroir-inspired experiences. The collaboration extends beyond seasonal events, with Bodegas Viñátigo’s wines available year-round through THE OZEN COLLECTION’s holiday programmes: the RESERVE™ Plan at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and the INDULGENCE™ Plan at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO.
Winemaker Juan Jesús Méndez reflected on the collaboration, stating: “THE OZEN COLLECTION has become an integral chapter in our story. Over these years, we have developed a deep understanding of their vision and clientele. To see our wines travel from Tenerife’s volcanic soils to the Maldives’ shores has been extraordinary. The enthusiasm of guests and connoisseurs continues to inspire us to create new expressions and strengthen this valued partnership.”
Celebrations will begin at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO from 24 to 26 November, featuring an evening at the underwater restaurant M6m, a dinner at TRADITION PEKING, and a sundowner at HUDHU BAY Beach Club, where guests can enjoy Bodegas Viñátigo wines against the backdrop of the Maldivian sunset.
From 28 to 30 November, OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI will host events at ORIGINƎ, a Canary-Asian fusion dining experience at SOYI, and sunset wine gatherings on the beach, designed to highlight rare Canary Islands vintages and encourage interaction between guests and winemakers.
These curated events provide opportunities for guests to meet the winemakers, learn about their craft, and experience food pairings that enhance each wine’s character. Nicolas Laguette, Director of Wines at Atmosphere Core, commented: “Canary Wine transcends simple consumption; it forges connections between people and cultures. Our partnership with Bodegas Viñátigo, who produce some of the most distinctive wines that even captivated Shakespeare, has significantly enriched our offerings. It has also elevated guest experiences and contributed to our wine programme receiving notable recognition and awards.”
THE OZEN COLLECTION continues to offer curated wine experiences throughout the year, including pairing dinners and sommelier-led tastings. Travellers can explore these vintages while benefitting from 25% savings on direct bookings, combining luxury with value.
Celebration
Season of wonder and connection: festivities at Four Seasons Resorts Maldives

Four Seasons Resorts across Asia are ushering in the festive season with an array of experiences that merge cultural traditions, playful entertainment, and meaningful rituals, creating a distinctive holiday calendar that resonates across their award-winning properties. In the Maldives, where the tropical warmth contrasts with winter’s chill elsewhere, celebrations are designed to capture both the spirit of joy and the magic of place. At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa, guests are invited on a musical journey spanning decades, from the glamour of 1920s soirées to the neon-lit energy of 1980s roller-disco nights. The atmosphere is charged with rhythm and nostalgia, setting the stage for evenings of dancing, themed dining, and family gatherings. Meanwhile, at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, the festivities transform into a fantastical escape on Ellgy Island, where reggae beats, immersive storytelling, and whimsical adventures unfold against the backdrop of the Baa Atoll’s turquoise waters. Adding to the sense of exclusivity, Four Seasons Private Island Maldives at Voavah presents Christmas as a personalised experience, with guests shaping their own version of celebration—whether through Michelin-starred cuisine, live performances, oceanfront rituals, or fireworks beneath the island sky, all enabled by a dedicated team.
The season brings with it a celebration of togetherness. Guests at the Maldivian resorts can gather for Christmas cheer infused with the region’s playful character. Santa’s arrival is a highlight, bringing festive fun for children and adults alike, while themed dinners and entertainment provide memorable moments for families. The sense of warmth and shared joy is echoed across the Four Seasons properties worldwide, yet the Maldives, with its pristine beaches and island charm, creates a unique canvas where these experiences are magnified by the natural beauty of the setting.
New Year’s Eve takes on a particularly vibrant tone across the Maldives resorts. At Kuda Huraa, the high-energy celebrations continue into the early hours with live music and curated dining, offering guests the chance to welcome the year ahead under starlit skies. At Landaa Giraavaru, the enchanted Ellgy Island narrative culminates in a festive finale filled with storytelling, music, and fireworks, blending fantasy with celebration in a way that reflects the creative spirit of the resort. On Voavah, the New Year is a blank canvas just as much as Christmas—every detail is tailored to the guests’ vision, ensuring a one-of-a-kind night of indulgence and anticipation for the year ahead.
For those seeking balance between celebration and restoration, the resorts also recognise the quieter days between Christmas and New Year’s—often referred to as “Twixmas.” This period allows guests to pause and rejuvenate, with options ranging from spa experiences by the ocean to mindful practices under starry skies. Families, couples, and solo travellers alike can shape itineraries that balance relaxation with adventure, taking advantage of the Maldives’ natural abundance and tranquil surroundings. Sound therapy, meditative sessions, and couple’s rituals add depth to the festive period, ensuring it is not only celebratory but also restorative.
The family dimension is not overlooked, with dedicated activities that encourage meaningful connections. Children’s parties, creative workshops, and outdoor adventures offer opportunities for younger guests to engage while adults enjoy moments of calm or shared experiences. Exclusive excursions across nearby islands and lagoons provide further scope for discovery and bonding, creating holiday memories that extend beyond traditional celebrations.
In bringing together music, culture, fantasy, and wellness, the holiday programme at Four Seasons Resorts Maldives epitomises the brand’s ability to elevate the festive season into a multidimensional experience. It is a blend of high-energy revelry and serene reflection, tailored indulgence and collective joy, all set against one of the world’s most striking natural backdrops. As guests prepare to welcome a new year, the resorts offer not just a destination but a narrative of connection, imagination, and renewal, ensuring the festive season in the Maldives is as memorable as it is meaningful.
News
Barceló Nasandhura Malé celebrates World Photography Day with #PortraitsAtNasandhura

Capture your best moments at Oivaru, Alimas Café, or B.Heaven rooftop for a chance to win exclusive prizes.
In celebration of World Photography Day on 19th August, Barceló Nasandhura Malé is inviting guests to showcase their creative flair with the launch of the #PortraitsAtNasandhura campaign.
Ongoing until 10th September 2025, guests who dine or unwind at Oivaru, Alimas Café, or the B.Heaven rooftop can capture their best portrait and share it on Instagram or Facebook – either on their feed or as a story – tagging Barceló Nasandhura and using the hashtag #PortraitsAtNasandhura for a chance to win indulgent prizes.
Two lucky winners will enjoy:
- A spa treatment for two at Wellness by Mandara
- A dinner for two at Oivaru
Whether it’s a relaxed coffee at Alimas Café, a golden-hour view from B.Heaven rooftop, or a luxurious meal at Oivaru, Barceló Nasandhura Malé offers the perfect backdrop for timeless portraits. The #PortraitsAtNasandhura campaign celebrates creativity, connection, and the beauty of the hotel’s spaces, inviting guests to capture moments they’ll cherish.
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