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Shangri-La Villingili Resort reopening announced for December 2025
Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts has confirmed that Shangri-La Villingili Resort & Spa will reopen its doors on 31 December 2025, once again welcoming guests to one of the Maldives’ most distinctive luxury island destinations.
Located on Villingili Island in the southernmost Addu City, the resort is surrounded by lush tropical greenery and pristine natural settings. Guests will have access to 2 kilometres of white sandy beaches and 6 kilometres of uninterrupted coastline, framed by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The resort also features natural lagoons and carefully preserved landscapes, offering a balance of seclusion and discovery.
Shangri-La Villingili Resort & Spa has long been recognised for its blend of Maldivian charm with refined hospitality standards. The reopening will reintroduce the signature service excellence for which Shangri-La is known worldwide, alongside curated experiences designed to enhance the guest journey from arrival to departure. These will include opportunities to explore local culture, engage in ocean-based activities, and enjoy personalised wellness and dining experiences.
The Ministry of Tourism and Environment also issued a statement confirming the reopening, framing it as a government priority.
“The Government of the Republic of Maldives is pleased to announce the forthcoming reopening of Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort, Addu City, which has remained closed since March 2020 due to the COVID-19. The re-opening of this Resort is a presidential pledge by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu,” the statement said.
The ministry noted the resort’s economic and social significance to Addu.
“From its opening in 2009 until its closure, Shangri-La Villingili made significant contributions to both local livelihoods and enhanced connectivity through Gan International Airport. Prior to the closing of the resort, the resort employed more than 500 staff,” it said.
According to the government, sustained engagement with Addu Investments Private Limited and all relevant stakeholders has been central to resolving the resort’s prolonged closure. These efforts culminated in “a firm commitment from Addu Investments Private Limited to resume operations and reopen the resort by 31 December 2025.”
The ministry added that the reopening would “bring renewed economic and social benefits to Addu City, strengthen tourism diversification across the Maldives, and support the Government’s vision of expanding tourism opportunities beyond the central region while promoting development in the outer atolls.”
The statement concluded by welcoming the development and extending appreciation to Shangri-La and Addu Investments.
“The Government welcomes this positive development and extends its appreciation to Shangri-La’s management and Addu Investments Private Limited for their commitment to reopening this landmark property.”
Shangri-La, for its part, emphasised that the return of the resort represents both a renewal of its presence in the Maldives and a commitment to elevating the standards of luxury travel in the region. With its reopening, the group said, travellers will once again be able to experience a destination that combines natural beauty with world-class service, creating a setting suited for both leisure and meaningful experiences.
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.
Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.
From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.
On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.
Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.
A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.
On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
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