Awards
Universal Resorts’ Huvafen Fushi, Baros, Kurumba receive World Travel Awards 2024

Universal Resorts has announced that three of its eight properties have secured top honours at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2024, cementing their status as pioneers in international travel and innovation.
This year’s 31st edition of the awards – renowned as the travel industry’s highest accolade – was hosted on Thursday 24 November at a glittering ceremony in Funchal, Madeira. Huvafen Fushi, Baros and Kurumba were recognised for their groundbreaking excellence in hospitality, receiving the following titles:
- Maldives Leading Boutique Resort 2024 – Huvafen Fushi Maldives
- Maldives Leading Water Villa Resort 2024 – Baros Maldives
- Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort 2024 – Kurumba Maldives
In addition to these awards, Baros was nominated for:
- Maldives’ Leading Water Villa Resort 2024
- Maldives’ Leading Boutique Resort 2024
- Maldives’ Leading Resort 2024
- Indian Ocean’s Leading Water Villa Resort 2024
- Indian Ocean’s Most Romantic Resort 2024
Huvafen received a nomination for Maldives’ Leading Boutique Resort 2024, while Kurumba was nominated for Maldives’ Leading Beach Resort 2024, Maldives’ Leading Family Resort 2024 and Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort 2024.
Another Universal Resort, Velassaru Maldives, celebrated for its sophisticated simplicity and beachfront allure, was nominated for Maldives’ Leading Resort 2024.
The three resorts’ success reinforces the Maldives’ status as the World’s Leading Destination, a title it proudly secured for an unprecedented fifth consecutive year in the awards, solidifying its position as the ultimate paradise for discerning travellers. This achievement reflects the nation’s pristine natural beauty, unmatched experiences and world-class service.
Adding to its accolades, the Maldives was also named the World’s Leading Green Destination 2024, showcasing its commitment to sustainability and eco-conscious tourism practices. This recognition highlights the nation’s dedication to preserving its fragile ecosystems while offering travelers an exceptional yet environmentally responsible experience.
As the pioneers of high-end tourism in the Maldives, Universal Resorts has been creating unforgettable experiences for over five decades. Each of our award-winning resorts embodies the essence of Maldivian hospitality, offering unique escapes on naturally beautiful islands.
- Huvafen Fushi: redefining luxury with its intimate setting, Huvafen Fushi boasts private plunge pools in every room, the world’s first underwater spa and dedicated butler service, ensuring an unparalleled level of personalised attention. With fewer than 50 rooms, this is a five-star resort that epitomises the intimacy of a private island getaway.
- Baros: this iconic classic, renowned for its exceptional diving and underwater experiences, provides a tranquil sanctuary where guests can explore vibrant coral reefs, indulge in bespoke dining under the stars and unwind in an array of overwater villas boasting private pools and uninterrupted ocean views.
- Kurumba: blending laid-back luxury with vibrant energy, just a short trip from Malé, Kurumba has pristine beaches, tranquil gardens, water sports, cultural experiences and a dedicated kids’ club for families. Renowned as a premier MICE destination, Kurumba also excels in hosting world-class business events.
Universal Resorts began its journey in 1972 with Kurumba, the Maldives’ first-ever resort. While much has changed since those early days, the spirit of pioneering adventure remains at the heart of everything we do. Today, our collection of eight resorts continues to lead the way, each offering a unique and bespoke experience.
Visha Mahir, Chief Operating Officer of Universal Resorts Management, commented: “Achieving these top honours at the World Travel Awards is an absolute delight. It’s a powerful endorsement of our passion for crafting extraordinary experiences in a destination that continues to redefine luxury travel. The Maldives, with its breathtaking natural beauty and innovative spirit, sets the stage for unforgettable journeys, and we remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”
The World Travel Awards accolades follow October’s Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 triumph in which Universal Resorts properties Huvafen Fushi, Milaidhoo and Baros secured top rankings in the “World’s Best Resorts – Indian Ocean” category.
In 2023, Baros celebrated its 50th anniversary, marking a legacy of genuine Maldivian hospitality and an unwavering dedication to exceeding guest expectations.
Huvafen Fushi, meanwhile, recently revealed a series of exclusive partnerships with renowned international beauty brands, including Natura Bissé, Aromatherapy Associates, Margaret Dabbs, Gentleman by Obsidian for Men and Cochine. These collaborations are integral to the extensive enhancement of this secluded island sanctuary, which reopened in October 2023 following a comprehensive renovation.
Kurumba Maldives has recently unveiled a range of exciting new experiences. The newly certified and Worldwide Kids-recognised Kurumba Kids Club offers innovative activities like an AR Sandbox and Coconut Kitchen for young explorers. At the spa, a refreshed menu introduces global beauty icons like Aromatherapy Associates, Obsidian Skincare for men, Margaret Dabbs London and Cochine in a serene, eco-conscious setting. Dining takes a bold turn with new executive chef Pedro Pecego, whose international flair shines in unique creations, including South American grill nights at Thila; an immersive ‘Omakase’ experiences at Hamakase; Middle Eastern flavours at Al Qasr; and North and South Indian-inspired dishes at Mahal.
Awards
Villa Resorts’ properties get triple nominations in T+L Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025

Villa Resorts has been recognized with three nominations in the T+L Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, highlighting the strength of its locally rooted hospitality. Villa Park is in the running for the Resort for Families and Resort Spa, while Villa Nautica has earned a spot in the Resort Pool category.
These nominations reflect what Villa Resorts has always done best, creating spaces that feel effortless yet considered, where service is warm, and the setting does most of the talking. With a deep connection to the Maldives, the brand continues to evolve while staying true to the essence of island life.
Villa Park’s nomination for the Resort for Families is a nod to the way the resort has perfected the art of multigenerational travel. Its expansive natural island setting allows children to explore freely, whether cycling through coconut groves, spotting baby reef sharks in the shallows, or making new friends at the Park Players Kids Club. Meanwhile, parents can unwind knowing they have access to everything from world-class snorkeling to intimate treetop dining at ZERO.
The resort’s second nomination, for the Resort Spa, highlights the reputation of Araamu Spa, a lush sanctuary known for its deeply restorative treatments. Among its standout experiences is the Pot Tub, an open-air soaking ritual that combines Maldivian traditions with modern wellness. It’s a place where time slows and relaxation takes on a new meaning.
Over at Villa Nautica, the Resort Pool nomination recognizes what has become one of the most photographed infinity pools in the Maldives. Positioned at the edge of the ocean, the pool’s sleek design and panoramic views make it a natural gathering place, whether for a lazy afternoon in the sun or a sunset swim with a cocktail in hand. It embodies the resort’s energetic, yacht-inspired aesthetic—sophisticated, stylish, and effortlessly inviting.
As voting opens for the T+L Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, Villa Resorts stands alongside some of the region’s most celebrated properties. These nominations are a reflection of the guests who return year after year, the dedicated teams who bring each experience to life, and the Maldivian spirit at the heart of it all.
Awards
Milaidhoo Maldives recognised with Excellence in Personalised Hospitality award

Milaidhoo Maldives, the epitome of reinvented luxury and personalisation in the Maldives, has announced that it has been awarded the prestigious title of “Excellence in Personalised Hospitality and Service – Maldives, 2024” by Global Brands Magazine. This recognition celebrates the island’s relentless commitment to providing tailored experiences and world-class service to its guests.
In a fiercely competitive field, Milaidhoo stood out for its exceptional dedication to personalisation. Global Brands Magazine, one of the world’s largest and most respected brand publications, honours excellence in the hospitality industry through these annual awards, and the 13th edition was no exception. Each nominee was rigorously evaluated by an external research team, ensuring that only the very best in customer service, innovation and branding emerged victorious. Milaidhoo Maldives was selected for its outstanding ability to deliver bespoke hospitality and its continuous focus on guest satisfaction.
At the heart of Milaidhoo’s success is its distinctive approach to service. From the moment guests arrive, they are welcomed into a world where every detail is curated to reflect their individual preferences. Central to this experience is the Island Host, a dedicated butler who serves as a personal concierge during the entire stay, ensuring that each guest’s wishes are not just met but anticipated.
The Island Hosts work seamlessly alongside the entire Milaidhoo Family — a team of passionate and highly trained professionals from every department, all of whom embody the island’s philosophy of personalised luxury. Whether it is arranging private dining experiences, designing bespoke wellness treatments or creating unforgettable excursions, the Milaidhoo Family ensures that every moment on the small island is a unique and cherished memory.
“Milaidhoo has always been about a place where our guests feel they belong than just luxurious accommodation; it is about crafting meaningful and unforgettable experiences for each and every guest,” said Paul van Frank, General Manager at Milaidhoo Maldives. “This award is a testament to our exceptional team, whose dedication and passion for delivering personalised service are the cornerstones of our success. We are thrilled and honoured to be recognised by Global Brands Magazine.”
As the Maldives continues to be one of the world’s most sought-after luxury destinations, Milaidhoo Maldives remains a beacon of individuality, where each guest’s stay is a reflection of their personal desires and dreams. This award is not only a reflection of Milaidhoo’s commitment to excellence, but also an endorsement of the island’s innovative approach to hospitality, placing the guest experience at the very core of everything it does.
Awards
TUI BLUE Olhuveli Romance wins Best Hotel – Long Haul among top 100 hotels

TUI BLUE Olhuveli Romance has announced its latest achievement at the significant TUI Global Hotel Awards 2025, held in Berlin, Germany on March 3, 2025, ahead of ITB Berlin 2025. The resort has once again secured the Best Hotel – Long Haul category award, reinforcing its position as a premier luxury destination. In addition, TUI BLUE Olhuveli Romance has been ranked among the Top 100 hotels in TUI’s global program, a testament to its unwavering commitment to excellence in hospitality.
The TUI Global Hotel Awards recognizes the Top 100 hotels and winners based on detailed guest feedback. Each year, TUI BLUE celebrates outstanding service and quality at a festive ceremony in Germany, attended by over 300 industry professionals. The event is one of the most prestigious in the travel sector, honoring hotels and resorts that excel in guest experiences, superior service, and high-quality standards. TUI BLUE Olhuveli Romance has been named among the Top 100, placing it in an elite category of properties that set new benchmarks in the hospitality industry.
“We are incredibly honoured to receive this recognition from the TUI Global Hotel Awards 2025 for the second consecutive year. This achievement reflects the dedication of our team in delivering unforgettable experiences for our guests and reinforces our commitment to excellence in hospitality,” said Deepak Booneady, CEO of Sun Siyam Resorts.
TUI BLUE Olhuveli Romance, located in the stunning South Male Atoll and connected to the two islands of Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives, is renowned for offering an exclusive adults-only experience that blends traditional Maldivian charm with contemporary luxury. Since its opening on November 1, 2022, the resort has offered pristine beaches, world-class dining, and personalised services tailored specifically for couples and honeymooners seeking a memorable getaway. This recent accolade highlights the resort’s dedication to creating meaningful and unforgettable guest experiences.
As it continues to set the standard for exceptional service and luxury hospitality, this award further solidifies TUI BLUE Olhuveli Romance’s status as a premier romantic destination in the Maldives. The resort extends its sincere gratitude to its guests, partners, and dedicated team members for their invaluable contributions to its continued success.
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