The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands and The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, part of the Luxury Group by Marriott International portfolio of resorts in the Maldives, have received recognition from MICHELIN Guide, Tatler Asia, and the US and UK editions of Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, including Two MICHELIN Keys for The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands and a place among the Best 100 Hotels in Tatler Best Asia Pacific 2026 for The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort.

Among the standout recognitions, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands was awarded Two MICHELIN Keys following the unveiling of the global MICHELIN Keys for 2026, advancing from its One MICHELIN Key distinction in 2025 and placing the resort among the world’s most exceptional hotels.

Most recently, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort was named among the Best 100 Hotels in the third edition of Tatler Best Asia Pacific 2026, an annual selection recognising exceptional hospitality experiences across the region. Announced on October 22, the awards celebrate 300 outstanding establishments spanning hotels, restaurants and bars.

Both resorts also earned distinction in the US and UK editions of the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2026, ranking among the Indian Ocean’s top resorts based on the votes of discerning travelers worldwide.

“We are honoured to see our resorts in the Maldives recognised by some of the most respected names in global travel and hospitality,” said Silvio Rosenberger, Vice President of Operations, Asia Pacific (excluding China) and Market Vice President, Maldives at Marriott International. “These accolades reflect the strength of our Luxury Group portfolio and the passion and dedication of our teams in creating exceptional experiences for today’s luxury traveller. We are grateful to our guests for their continued trust and for inspiring the meaningful moments we strive to create every day.”

The recognition comes as the Maldives continues to be celebrated among the world’s leading island destinations, ranking No. 1 and No. 2 respectively in the US and UK editions of the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 for Best Islands in Africa & the Indian Ocean.

See the complete rankings below:

Global MICHELIN Key Awards 2026 – Two Keys: An Exceptional Stay

• The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

Tatler Best Asia Pacific 2026: Best 100 Hotels

• The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

Condé Nast Traveler US Readers’ Choice Awards 2026: Top Resorts in the Indian Ocean

• The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort (No. 2)
• The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands (No. 5)

Condé Nast Traveller UK Readers’ Choice Awards 2026: Best Resorts in the World – Indian Ocean

• The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands (No. 14)

The Luxury Group by Marriott International portfolio of resorts in the Maldives comprises The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, W Maldives, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, and JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort.

For more information, visit marriott.com/maldives.

This season, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands invites guests into A Canvas of Festive Wonder, an imaginative celebration where the purity of white meets the freedom of colour, and timeless Christmas traditions are reimagined through art. The 2026–2027 festivities come to life through an exclusive artist residency with renowned French artist Alexandre Benjamin Navet, in collaboration with Maison Ruinart, bringing a vibrant creative universe to the shores of the Indian Ocean.

From December 18 to 23, 2026, Alexandre Benjamin Navet will take up residence at the resort, introducing artistic encounters, immersive installations, and exclusive experiences that mark the beginning of the festive celebrations. Inspired by the intensity of Maldivian light, the beauty of the marine world, and the island’s tropical flora and fauna, the artist transforms the resort into a living canvas through expressive colours, playful forms, and unexpected artistic interventions. The collaboration unfolds from a Christmas tree exclusively designed by the artist and bespoke festive ornaments to a collection of gifts and a complete artistic transformation of Beach Shack. The installations will remain on display through April 2027, extending the creative journey beyond the festive season. In partnership with Maison Ruinart, the residency celebrates the dialogue between art, Champagne, and the French art de vivre. Guests are invited to discover the artist’s creative process through intimate studio visits and workshops, complemented by curated Ruinart tastings and two exclusive gastronomic dinners.

A Festive Story Told Through Art and Colour

Inspired by the resort’s distinctive architecture and natural surroundings, A Canvas of Festive Wonder presents a contemporary interpretation of an elevated white Christmas. White becomes a symbol of serenity and possibility, while Alexandre Benjamin Navet’s colourful creations introduce joy, movement, and imagination. Throughout the island, the festive journey evolves from calm to vibrancy, inviting guests to rediscover familiar spaces through a new artistic perspective. Rooted in the spirit of a Celebration of Life, the season embraces togetherness, creativity, and the beauty of shared experiences, where every moment becomes an opportunity to connect and celebrate.

A Season of Festive Traditions and Island Celebrations

The festivities officially begin on December 22 with the Christmas Tree Lighting and Cocktail at Beach Shack, unveiling Alexandre Benjamin Navet’s exclusive creation in the presence of the artist. The evening continues with the Ruinart Artist Dinner, an intimate gastronomic celebration of art and Champagne.

On December 24, a Christmas Eve Cocktail sets the tone for an elegant Gala Dinner at EAU Bar, combining exceptional cuisine, festive entertainment, and an enchanting atmosphere beneath the stars. Christmas Day brings the much-anticipated arrival of Santa Claus over the resort’s iconic pool, followed by a Christmas Concert, while December 26 celebrates the resort’s youngest guests with the legendary Ritz Kids Festive Fashion Show. The celebrations culminate on December 31, as the resort welcomes 2027 with a spectacular beachfront New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. An evening of exceptional gastronomy, captivating performances, and vibrant celebrations brings the festive theme to its grandest expression. The spirit of togetherness continues into the new year, with an Orthodox Christmas Gala Dinner on January 6 and further curated experiences through January 9.

Culinary Discoveries, Creative Encounters, and Island Well-Being

Beyond the signature celebrations, the festive programme brings together exceptional gastronomy, creative discovery, and restorative island experiences. Culinary highlights include exclusive gastronomic dinners in collaboration with Maison Ruinart, spectacular gala dinners accompanied by live shows and musical performances, and themed evenings celebrating flavours from around the world. On January 3, The Vintage Affair at IWAU Chef’s Table offers an intimate gastronomic experience paired with premium wines, while the La Bella Vita Gaja Wine Dinner on January 9 celebrates Italian culinary traditions and prestigious wines from Piedmont.

Creativity extends to guests of every generation through a vibrant Ritz Kids programme of festive crafts, artistic workshops, and imaginative adventures. Families can also discover the island’s extraordinary marine environment alongside the resort’s Naturalists, with coral planting, reef exploration, and ocean conservation experiences offering meaningful connections with nature.

For those seeking moments of calm, The Ritz-Carlton Spa and the resort’s wellness programme invite guests to reconnect through yoga, meditation, mindful rituals, and restorative treatments. Ocean adventures, sunset cruises, and island sports complete a festive journey balancing celebration with well-being.

An Island Home for a Celebration of Life

Set within the Fari Islands archipelago, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands is celebrated for its distinctive circular architecture by Kerry Hill Architects, contemporary island elegance, and personalised service delivered by the resort’s Aris Meeha, island butlers. Guided by its Circle of Island Life philosophy, the resort offers a unique setting where architecture, nature, and the rhythm of the ocean exist in harmony.

This festive season, A Canvas of Festive Wonder brings a new artistic dimension to the island, transforming it into a place where tradition meets imagination, creativity inspires connection, and every moment becomes part of a larger Celebration of Life.

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands invites guests to discover a festive season shaped by art, inspired by nature, and brought to life through the joy of togetherness.

For more information, please visit ritzcarlton.com/Maldives.

This festive season, white takes on a different meaning at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa. Far from frosty mornings and winter landscapes, the powder-soft sands of Thilamaafushi Island, turquoise waters and endless sunshine offer a distinctly tropical interpretation of a white Christmas.

From 20 December 2026 to 10 January 2027, the resort will transform into The White Isle, a festive celebration inspired by the natural beauty of the Maldives and the unmistakable joie de vivre of Le Méridien’s European heritage.

Rooted in the spirit of La Fête by Le Méridien, the programme brings a playful twist to cherished holiday traditions. From Santa’s arrival over the Indian Ocean and Christmas feasts to family adventures, island explorations and a glamorous New Year’s Eve beach soirée, the season invites guests to embrace the pleasures of island life.

Set on the natural island of Thilamaafushi in Lhaviyani Atoll, surrounded by a turquoise lagoon and thriving marine life, Le Méridien Maldives offers a refreshing perspective on festive travel, where days are made for exploration, afternoons linger a little longer and evenings bring new reasons to celebrate.

A Festive Season, Le Méridien Way

The festivities begin on 21 December with A Night to Shine, the resort’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony at Le Méridien Hub. A beautifully crafted gingerbread house, Christmas choir, live music, festive entertainment and seasonal treats bring the island together for a joyful opening to The White Isle.

On 24 December, La Fête de Noël brings the pleasures of the festive table to Turquoise. Seasonal favourites, international specialities, freshly prepared seafood and the theatre of live cooking stations come together for a Christmas Eve feast, complemented by an enticing array of holiday desserts and live music. The dinner is included for guests on Half-Board, Full Board and All-Inclusive meal plans.

Christmas Day brings a little extra magic as Santa makes his grand arrival across the turquoise waters, trading snowy rooftops for the shores of Thilamaafushi. With gifts, surprises and festive cheer, his visit promises a memorable moment for the resort’s youngest guests.

The festive spirit continues at The Family Kids Hub, transformed into a White Wonderland of imagination, creativity and island adventures. Young explorers can take part in coconut leaf activities, learn about the marine world through the Mini Marine Masters Programme at the Marine Conservation Hub, or embark on a Holiday Quest and Family Frosty Treasure Hunt.

As evening falls, the adventures continue with Kids’ Night Camping, featuring storytelling, stargazing and playful group games. Young astronomy enthusiasts can also venture into the wonders of the night sky through guided telescope sessions with the resort’s resident astronomer.

Midnight in White: A French-Inspired Beach Soirée

On 31 December, The White Isle welcomes 2027 with Midnight in White, a glamorous beach soirée bringing a touch of the French Riviera to the Indian Ocean.

The evening begins with cocktails at Velaa Bar + Grill before moving to the beach, where an all-white celebration awaits. A tempting array of seasonal specialities, live cooking stations, beachside barbecues and cocktails sets the scene for a night of culinary indulgence and spirited entertainment.

When the clock approaches midnight, guests gather beneath the stars for the countdown to 2027, raising a glass to new beginnings as the island welcomes another year of possibilities. A live DJ keeps the festive energy flowing into the early hours, with music and the unmistakable joie de vivre of Le Méridien.

A Celebration of Rozhdestvo Khristovo with Chef Dmitry Parikov

The festivities continue into the New Year with Rozhdestvo Khristovo on 6 January, as Le Méridien Maldives welcomes guest chef Dmitry Parikov for a special culinary collaboration honouring Orthodox Christmas traditions.

Bringing his signature creations and contemporary interpretation of traditional flavours to Thilamaafushi, Chef Dmitry will present a festive dining experience complemented by live entertainment, offering guests another occasion to gather around the table and savour the spirit of the season.

The Pleasure of Island Living

Beyond the festivities, The White Isle is an invitation to savour the good life on Thilamaafushi, whether travelling as a couple, gathering with friends or enjoying a family holiday.

The resort’s collection of 134 beach and overwater villas offers a choice of island retreats, including spacious two-bedroom villas designed for families seeking comfort and privacy. For larger gatherings and multi-generational escapes, the Three-Bedroom Thilamaafushi Villa offers generous indoor and outdoor living spaces, a private pool and direct access to the beach.

Days unfold at an unhurried island pace, with opportunities to kayak or paddleboard across the lagoon, snorkel alongside colourful reef fish and turtles, or venture further into the waters of Lhaviyani Atoll on a diving excursion.

For curious minds of all ages, the Marine Conservation Hub offers insight into the underwater world surrounding the island, while the resort’s hydroponic Greenhouse introduces guests to a more sustainable approach to growing fresh produce in the Maldives.

Back on land, a game of padel, a wellness ritual at the overwater Explore Spa or a yoga session offers another way to enjoy the island. As the sun begins to dip towards the horizon, sunset aperitifs, leisurely dining and astronomy experiences reveal a different side of Thilamaafushi after dark.

Your Festive Escape Awaits

To make the season even more inviting, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa presents its Festive Early Bird Offer, combining all-inclusive dining at selected restaurants with USD 100 daily resort credit to enjoy more of the island’s experiences.

Available for stays between 20 December 2026 and 10 January 2027, the offer invites travellers to exchange winter days for the warmth of the Maldives and celebrate the season with a distinctly Le Méridien spirit.

For more information or to book, please visit lemeridien-maldives.com or contact reservations.maldives@lemeridien.com.