The Maldives will have even more to offer in 2021 with 17 new resort openings anticipated for the year. Several international brands including The Ritz-Carlton, Le Méridien, GHM Hotels, La Vie Hotels, Meliá hotels and Avani Hotels & Resorts will make its debut in the tropical holiday destination in 2021.
Some of these resorts were initially planned to open its doors in 2020. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic the development progress of many properties were halted. But, some of the existing properties took this time to renovate their spaces to offer even more services to holidaymakers.
Perhaps the most-anticipated resort openings for 2021 will be the three ultra-luxury properties at the second integrated destination of the Maldives – the Fari Islands. But we’ll let you decide which resort debut you’re most excited about. Without further ado, let’s dive into the 17 Maldives resort openings we anticipate for 2021.
1. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
Opening: Q2 2021
Atoll: North Malé Atoll
Number of Villas: 100
Website: www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/maldives-fari-islands
The flagship brand of Marriott International’s resort is one of the most anticipated openings for 2021. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives nestles within the second integrated destination in the Maldives: the Fari Islands. Hence, guests at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives will have access to the picturesque Fari Marina as well.
This upcoming luxury resort will boast modern ultra-luxury villas and facilities. A press release by The Ritz-Carlton Maldives earlier in January 2021, details the luxury resort’s philosophy and design, led by Kerry Hill Architects. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives features a unique butler concept ‘Aris Meeha’ and 7 restaurants and bars showcasing global cuisines alongside breathtaking views.
You can actually book your stay at the luxury resort now. According to Ritz-Carlton’s website, the resort is a Category 8 Marriott Bonvoy property. Which also means, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives is on the highest awards tier.
Note: The Fari Islands is an integrated destination in the Maldives. This archipelago presents three world-class hospitality brands (Patina Maldives and Capella Maldives as below) and Fari Marina, a vibrant Fari Beach Club, charming boutiques, and a selection of handpicked, upscale food and beverage options. In addition to that, Fari Islands features the ‘Fari Village’, a dedicated island for staff. This island focuses on community, education, and engagement. Likewise, the Fari Village will be a first-of-its-kind in the Maldives.
2. Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa
Opening: Q3 2021
Atoll: Lhaviyani Atoll
Number of villas: 150
Website: www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/mlemd-le-meridien-maldives-resort-and-spa/
Another brand of Marriott International, Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa is set in a picturesque corner of Lhaviyani Atoll. The Category 5 Marriott Bonvoy property takes inspiration from the essence of the Maldives, combined with a passion for culture, cuisine and design.
At this idyllic island, holidaymakers can find over 50 diving sites with vibrant marine life including pods of Manta Rays and turtles. Moreover, they can savour the ‘sights, sounds, aromas, and tastes’ of the destination with six restaurants & bars and Explore Spa by Le Méridien.
Reachable by a 35-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport, children at the resort can enjoy the ‘Le Meridien Family Concept’. Guests can immerse themselves in the offerings including; Waves Lifestyle Hub, ‘Riviera’ Adults Only Pool, The Hub & Longitude Bar, Turquoise Restaurant and much more at Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa.
3. Patina Maldives, Fari Islands
Opening: Q2 2021
Atoll: North Malé Atoll
Number of Villas: 110 (including Fari Studios)
Website: https://patinahotels.com/maldives-fari-islands/
Ultra-luxe Patina Maldives, Fari Islands is inaugural flagship property from sophisticated new lifestyle brand Patina Hotels & Resorts. The property is the latest hospitality concept by Capella Hotel Group.
Designed by renowned Brazilian architect Marcio Kogan, Patina Maldives offers 90 contemporary one- to three-bedroom Beach and Water Pool Villas, alongside 20 Fari Studios. Likewise, all of these embody a harmony of sanctuary and stimulation.
Guests can find a new expression of island life through; thoughtful tailormade wellness journeys, interactive music programmes, captivating culinary experiences, and bask in the light-filled James Turrell Skyspace pavilion.
Inspired by the beauty and metaphorical significance of the island landscape, Studio MK27’s delicate, rhythmic design for Patina Maldives conjures spaces and atmospheres. This encourages deep connections with nature, as well as communion with other people as well.
4. The Chedi Kudavillingili
Opening: 2021
Atoll: North Malé Atoll
Number of Villas: 99
Website: https://www.ghmhotels.com/
99-villa property, The Chedi Kudavillingili will be GHM’s first resort in the Maldives. This getaway features 36 overwater villas and a spectacular 150-metre-long central pool. The resort lies within desirable proximity to the Velana International Airport by a short 25-minute speedboat ride.
In addition to the 36 overwater villas, the luxury resort will feature 63 island-based villas as well. Furthermore, The Chedi Kudavillingili will launch a spa with eight overwater treatment rooms, a beach club and bar, an all-day dining restaurant and Hawkers Stalls featuring four live cooking stations.
Holidaymakers will also find recreational activities on the island from courts for several different sports to surfing and an abundance of on-the-water and underwater activities.
5. Siyam World
Opening: 2021
Atoll: Noonu Atoll
Number of Villas: Unknown
Website: www.sunsiyam.com/siyam-world
The all-inclusive and multi-experiential resort, Siyam World is expected to open its doors in 2021. Home to miles of natural wonder the Sun Siyam Resorts property will ‘astound even the most seasoned traveller’.
The resort will redefine a deluxe holiday experience with WOW! Inclusive – Siyam World’s Premium All-Inclusive plan. Additionally, travellers will find 12 world-class dining venues and enjoy their stay at the resort by choosing from the 12 accommodation categories.
6. Address Madivaru Maldives Resort + Spa
Opening: 2021
Atoll: North Ari Atoll
Number of Villas: 80
Website: https://www.addresshotels.com/
Dubai-based Emaar Hospitality Group, Address Madivaru Maldives Resort + Spa is a first-of-its-kind hotel project by the upscale brand. One of the highly anticipated resort openings 2021, Madivaru will feature a dedicated spa island and a water sports island.
Travellers will also find a host of activities from leisure pursuits and diving to surfing experiences. One of the most exciting resort openings in the Maldives of 2021, Address Madivaru will boast water villas and presidential suites that will redefine the standards of ultra-luxury hospitality as well.
7. Avani Fares, Maldives
Opening: 2021
Atoll: Baa Atoll
Number of Villas: 200
Website: www.avanihotels.com/en/fares-maldives
Avani Hotels & Resorts will make its debut in the Maldives with Avani Fares, Maldives. Nestled on Baa Atoll, the 12.4-hectare island promises travellers a blissful setting for a truly Maldivian holiday experience.
With 200 guest rooms, the resort features spaces with every attention given to wellbeing with décor blending genuine pleasures and modernity. Likewise, these state-of-art rooms will boast soothing materials, textures and high-tech amenities.
Just when guests arrive at Avani Fares, they will instantly find the dazzling beauty of the Indian Ocean from the open-plan lobby. This communal living space blends the reception, lounge, meeting space and gourmet diving options. Furthermore, guests will find the panty – an Avani hallmark serving comfort food and artisanal grab-and-go bites around the clock.
Secluded in the northern Maldives, travellers can reach the resort by a thrilling 45-minute seaplane journey. Alternatively, guests can choose access the resort via a 30-minute speedboat journey from Baa Atoll’s domestic airport.
8. Gran Meliá Huravee, Maldives
Opening: Expectedly 2021
Atoll: Thaa Atoll
Number of Villas: 96
Website: https://www.granmelia.com/en/
Surrounded by untouched coral reefs, Gran Meliá Huravee, Maldives opening in the Maldives will mark the debut of Meliá Hotels in the tropical holiday destination. This luxury escape will feature 96 private villas, several restaurants, a spa and much more.
9. Maniya Faru Resort
Opening: 2021
Atoll: South Male’ Atoll
Number of Villas: 110
Website: Unavailable
Developed by Mahogany Pvt Ltd, Maniya Faru Resort will feature 110 villas incorporated with popular services and modern facilities. The resort located in the South Male’ Atoll is expected to open in early 2021. Mahogany currently owns and operates the Reethi Faru Resort in Northern Raa Atoll. Meanwhile, the company also managed Reethi Beach Resort for 20 years.
10. OZO Maldives
Opening: Expectedly 2021
Atoll: Raa Atoll
Number of Villas: 200
Website: https://www.ozohotels.com/raa-atoll-maldives
The second property of ONYX Hospitality Group, OZO Maldives is expected to open this year. Positioned as a ‘family-oriented resort’ this Maldives escape will bear all the signatures which ‘define an OZO’. The signatures include; an enhanced sleep experience, smart connectivity of personal devices in both private spaces and public areas, and curated destination and activity tips by enthusiastic and informed team members.
11. Capella Maldives, Fari Islands
Opening: Q2 2021
Atoll: North Malé Atoll
Number of Villas: 57
Website: https://www.capellahotels.com/en/capella-maldives
Capella Maldives, Fari Islands finds synergy between authentic island life and the contemporary elements that make up the perfect escape from every day. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Kengo Kuma and Hong Kong-based interior designer André Fu, all 57 villas and mansions at the resort are located on either land or over water.
Holidaymakers can enjoy the villas and mansions immersed in the beauty of the surrounding lagoon. Furthermore, Capella features signature oceanfront immersive dining concepts in 4 uniquely designed dining quadrants. In addition to that, look forward to the American steakhouse with chophouse-style dining and Californian wine.
12. ZAZZ Island Maldives
Opening: 2021
Atoll: South Ari Atoll
Number of Villas: 101
Website: https://zazz-hotels.com/zazz-escapes/maldives/
Expected to open in early 2021 – ZAZZ Island Maldives is a part of the ZAZZ Escapes Collection. The properties from ZAZZ escapes promise guests on a journey of discovery and fun. If you’re looking for a chance to disconnect and share adventures while shifting back to nature, ZAZZ Escapes will not disappoint you.
The modern oasis ZAZZ Island is a playground for adults, offering exclusive relaxation and exciting diversions to holidaymakers. The resort boasts 101 over-water and beach villas accented by breathtaking views. In addition to that, guests can savour a large choice of venues, with six different food and beverage destinations that will delight your buds. Likewise, the resort located in South Ari Atoll – is a 25-minutes scenic seaplane journey from the main Velana International Airport.
13. Madifushi Private Island
Opening: 2021
Atoll: Meemu Atoll
Number of Villas: unknown
Website: https://madifushiprivateisland.com/
Thus untouched private getaway will be perfect for everyone ready to be relived. Madifushi Private Island draws you to cherish memories and create new ones with your loved ones. Likewise, the resort curates guests’ own dream escape with a tailor-made experience.
Each villa and suite at the blissful Madifushi has been architecturally designed to sit in harmony with the natural environment. And guests will have their senses are awakened yet not overwhelmed. Nestled amongst the tropical flora and fauna; the beach havens or over-water havens are also perfect for travelling families and groups of friends alike.
14. Tolarno Maldives Kunaavashi Resort
Opening: 2021
Atoll: Vaavu Atoll
Number of Villas: 72
Website: https://laviehotels.com/
Located in the pristine Vaavu Atoll, a divers haven, Tolarno Maldives Kunaavashi resides in a stunning private island to private guests the ultimate privacy. Each villa at the resort is surrounded by lavish vegetation and views of the crystal clear waters.
Beach Villas at the resort will feature cozy design, filled with local artwork selected by the Tolarno Art Advisors. Meanwhile, the overwater villas on the east side of the island will feature breathtaking sunrise views.
Additionally, holidaymakers can choose the two secluded presidential villas. Likewise, the resort will boast a wide range of gastronomic choices with beautiful views. Whether it’s breakfast or a candle-light dinner on the beach, Tolarno Maldives Kunaavashi Resort will always have solutions for guests.
Nested in the heart of the island guests will also find the Tolarno’s signature spa. Guests can enjoy customized spa treatment provided by experienced spa therapists at absolute privacy as well. In addition to that, Tolarno Maldives Kunaavashi Resort offers fully equipped watersports and diving center. So, guests can explore the beauty of Maldives.
15. Cocogiri Island Resort
Opening: Q2 2021
Atoll: Vaavu Atoll
Number of Villas: 40
Website: https://www.cocogiri.com/
Another one of highly anticipated resort openings in 2021, Cocogiri Island Resort Maldives is an exclusive, boutique resort featuring 20 water villas and 20 beach villas on a private island. Hence, ensuring the utmost tranquillity. The island hideout promises to provide guests with an unmatched luxurious experience.
The haven is accessible by only 18 minutes by seaplane or 60 minutes by speedboat from Velana International airport. Likewise, regardless of the occasion, the resort offers the perfect setting for rare moments of romance, adventure, excitement, and memories to last a lifetime.
16. Cora Cora Maldives
Opening: October 2021
Atoll: Raa Atoll
Number of Villas: 100
Website: https://coracoraresorts.com/
Cora Cora Maldives’ most distinctive feature would be its art gallery and museum; a first in the Maldives. Likewise, this art gallery will feature 400 amazing local artefacts in its collection. The resort boasts 4 restaurants, 2 bars, a PADI certified diving school, a watersports centre, a kid’s club and much more.
17. JOALI Being
Opening: 2021
Atoll: Raa Atoll
Number of Villas: 69
Website: https://joali.com/
The first nature-immersive island retreat in the Maldives, JOALI Being will be the second property of JOALI Maldives. The upcoming resort is the first-of-its-kind as a concept and product. The upcoming island retreat will feature a wellbeing centre; which includes over 30 high-spec treatment rooms, premium treatment suites, therapeutic and alternative healing spaces and a well-equipped fitness facility and flexible studio spaces.
So, which of these Maldives resort openings in 2021 are you most excited about? All of these escapes offer something that fits the taste of everyone. Likewise, with the debut of these international brands, the Maldives will be open to even a bigger market.
Feature image by Capella Maldives
