Maldives' Best Resorts: Forbes Travel Guide's 2024 Five-Star Award Winners!

Since the pandemic, travellers have been seeking trips that are meaningful rather than just a trip to an iconic destination. With this, even bucket-list destinations such as the Maldives have started curating more personalized experiences. Whether that means personalised butler services or a memorable safari trip, the travellers are here for a unique adventure.

No matter the destination, Forbes Travel Guide’s 2024 Star Awards reflect the trending tastes among travellers. For the 66th annual list, Forbes explores a variety of destinations. From smaller overlooked cities to iconic destinations. And as per usual, a handful of Maldivian resorts made it to the list, for their unique and iconic offerings.

Cheval Blanc Randheli

Cheval Blanc Randheli made it to the Forbes Travel Guide’s 2024 list with a five-star rating. This resort is popular among travellers for its avant-garde elegance and French finesse, providing a uniquely luxurious experience. Opening in 2013, Cheval Blanc Randheli was Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy’s second hotel venture. The Forbes Travel Guide inspector’s highlights for 2024, noted the spa, the scent design, the water villas, the prestigious location, as well as the unique yoga ritual.

The inspectors noted that the spa at Cheval Blanc Randheli is uniquely set on an island of its own. This is an experience only offered in a few resorts in the Maldives. Another unique aspect noted was the scent design. The signature fragrance at Cheval Blanc Randheli was created by head nose at Dior, François Demachy. The water villas’ sundecks were noted for being among the largest in the Maldives, and the yoga ritual for its uniqueness.

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa

Four Seasons Resorts is a name brand which is well-known around the globe. The Four Seasons Resort Maldives also marked the list with a five-star rating. The resort which brings island luxury with the Maldivian charm was noted for being the first of its kind in the Maldives! The Four Seasons Resort in the Maldives brings travellers a unique spa experience, which Forbes noted – meaning you must try it. The resort is also popular among honeymooners.

Another group of travellers who happen to love the Four Seasons Maldives are surfers. The resort provides a unique surfing safari as well as a tour which can be booked with the resort. Forbes Travel Guide also highlighted the unique Maldives-inspired cocktails at the Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa!

Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru

Yet another Four Seasons Resort Maldives marked the list with five stars this year. The Landaa Giraavaru resort, which brings travellers an idyllic isle was noted for its unique and colourful seaplane! In addition to this, its marine discovery, spa and wellness as well as yoga were noted to be some of the best aspects of the resort. Located in Baa Atoll, the resort was also noted for the captivating underworld.

Hurawalhi Island Resort

The romantic private island oasis Hurawalhi Island Resort also came with a five-star rating for 2024. The resort is popular for its Romantic Villa is the only stay with a deep soaking bathtub! This unique offering allows travellers to relax with the breathtaking scenery of the Maldives.

Additionally, the Sulha Spa was also noted for its purely relaxing offerings while its private sandbank, underwater restaurant and Marine Biology Centre were also noted by Forbes. The 5.8 Undersea Restaurant at Hurawalhi is the world’s largest all-glass undersea restaurant with a carefully curated tasting menu and excellent wine pairings.

JOALI BEING

This immersive wellness retreat, opening in 2021 is a traveller favourite and received a five-star rating from Forbes Travel Guide. The resort offers travellers extremely spacious stays, whether you book the beach villa or overwater villa. The wellness centre Areka offers unique offerings, curated for each traveller. One of the reasons JOALI BEING became such a hit among travellers is the inclusive food menu, which offers delectable healthy options.

Due to the wellness-centric vibe at the resort, JOALI BEING has become a traveller favourite since its opening.

JOALI Maldives

While JOALI BEING is popular among wellness lovers, JOALI Maldives is for those seeking art in their travels. The resort offers immersive views, with no other resorts or even inhabited islands in sight in any direction.

The design aesthetics of the resort offer a unique experience for those staying in the overwater villas. Located just off the sandbank on the western corner of the island, overwater villas have the impression of being separate from the island.

Kudadoo Maldives Private Island

Kudadoo Maldives Private Island offers an ultra-exclusive, all-inclusive sanctuary for travellers. Kudadoo’s 13 one-bedroom and two two-bedroom Ocean Residences are oases, which need to be explored. The resort offers a unique cheese cellar, carrying some of the world’s best gourmet cheeses. The best part is that it’s all freely available for a pre-dinner nibble or even a middle-of-the-night snack.

Just like any good resort, Kudadoo Maldives Private Island also offers an amazing spa experience. ‘Lonu Cave’ is a first in the Maldives. The spa offers an indoor salt chamber whose walls are lined with mineral-rich age-old pink Himalayan salt. The resort also boasts restaurants that never close! The best part for vacationers? The champagne brunch is available throughout the day.

LUX* South Ari Atoll

LUX* South Ari Atoll is a haven for eco-travellers seeking a luxury getaway. This resort is the perfect location for divers, offering more than 50 dive spots filled with vibrant aquatic life, shipwrecks and caves.

The resort also boasts its sustainable practices, such as having the world’s largest solar platform at sea floating in the lagoon, providing power for the resort. Additionally, single-use plastics are banned in the resort and guests are also welcome to partake in the eco-friendly initiatives. At the restaurants, plant-based foodies will be amazed by the choice of clean, nutritious and locally sourced dishes on the vibrant “Keen on Green” menu!

One & Only Reethi Rah

One & Only Reethi Rah is one of the largest luxury resorts in the Maldives, with an impressive KidsOnly kids club. The perfect resort for a family or romantic getaway, One & Only Reethi Rah offers a unique experience for travellers. For the best experiences, explore the ClubOne Beach Club, the scuba experience as well as a stay at the Grand Sunset Residence.

The Grand Sunset Residence is an experience in itself. This villa category has the largest private stretch of beach on the island, offering more than 26,000 square feet.

Patina Maldives, Fari Islands

The modern, tranquil sanctuary of Patina Maldives brings travellers yet another five-star experience in the Maldives. With 12 restaurants and bars, the resort also offers spacious and inspiring one- to three-bedroom Beach and Water Pool villas.

For an artistic experience, travellers must experience the Fari Marina Village and Fari Beach Club. Here, everything from fashion to music and art is constantly flowing, adding a unique touch to your vacation. In addition to its beautiful spa, Patina Maldives also helps you to tune into the island’s energy, named “Rhythm and Vibes.

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

This property brings you the island vibes of the Maldives with the classic luxury of the Ritz. Here, every single guest is treated like royalty. Not only do you get your very own private butler The Ritz-Carlton Maldives also offers almost any activity you can imagine. The resort brings to its guests seven different dining outlets, catering to almost any palate.

Soneva Jani

Soneva is a name brand that everyone had on their bucket list for the Maldives since its inception. We can all agree that the overwater villas at Soneva Jani are some of the most popular among travellers. But that is not all. The resort is also great for kids as it offers a technology-free Mini Den. The menus at the kids’ club cater to young appetites, and the offerings for kids to enjoy are never-ending here.

Soneva Jani also debuted the Maldives’ first overwater observatory with a resident astronomer ready to give you a tour of the cosmos. This is something every traveller must explore on their trip to Soneva Jani.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

At this marine-inspired resort, booking an overwater villa for good sun and surf is a must. With the Maldives being popular for its underwater experience, a stay at The St.Regis Maldives is a must if you’re looking for good surf.

If you’re looking for a colourful Maldivian sunset, enjoy sundowners, seafood and even multi-course menus at the Whale Bar.

Velaa Private Island

This private luxury island has been garnering popularity and is another destination that adds a touch of uniqueness to your Maldives getaway. Not only does Velaa Private Island boast the only Snow Room in the Maldives, but it’s also filled with thrilling activities for adventure seekers.

The spa experience at Velaa Private Island offers travellers cutting-edge technologies and modern techniques! You can choose from two options – the Velaa Spa or the Evelaa Spa.

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

This sprawling five-star nirvana in the Maldives brings you Instagrammable dining outlets! Not only is Terra a must-try for its aesthetic appeal but the food is as delectable as it is Instagram-worthy. Guests are welcome to sit in handcrafted bamboo nests above the treetops while sipping Krug and noshing on Miyazake wagyu beef.

Each of the villas at this beautiful resort comes with an infinity pool and submerged loungers, swinging daybeds, dining gazebos and endless ocean vistas. Travellers can also look forward to booking a private island, perfect for celebratory occasions. The private island comes with two villas, five swimming pools, an overwater spa and an entertainment centre with a cinema!

The world of tourism evolves rapidly, driven by innovation, sustainability, and a shift in traveler preferences. As one of the leading platforms for showcasing these transformations, ITB Berlin 2025 stands as the premier trade show for the global tourism industry. Scheduled from March 4 to March 6, 2025, the event will bring together over 400 international speakers and thousands of exhibitors from around the world. Together, they will discuss the future of travel. Among the key players is the Maldives, which will make a significant impact at this year’s event with a bold presence aimed at further cementing its position as a global tourism leader.

ITB Berlin 2025: The Global Tourism Hub

ITB Berlin, the largest travel trade fair in the world, has 95% of its display space already booked. The event will feature exhibitors from 165 countries, with a significant focus on Southern Europe, Asia, and Africa. For 2025, ITB will delve into themes like sustainability, digital transformation, and the role of artificial intelligence in tourism. These topics will, in turn, offer valuable insights into how the industry shapes up for the future.

Moreover, the ITB Berlin Convention will focus on these challenges. Over 400 speakers will address topics such as eco-friendly tourism, AI in the customer journey, and digital innovation. As Albania takes the spotlight as the host country, attendees can expect an engaging and dynamic experience. Additionally, new event formats like ITB Transition Labs and guided tours will highlight the latest industry trends.

The Maldives at ITB Berlin 2025: A Growing Presence

The Maldives will make a splash at ITB Berlin 2025 with its largest-ever representation at the event. This participation builds on the Maldives’ growing prominence in global tourism. Following significant engagements at events like ITB China 2024 and ATM Dubai 2024. At ITB Berlin 2025, the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) is spearheading a major promotional campaign. The campaign features stunning visuals of the islands on 200 taxis throughout Berlin. Running in tandem with the Berlinale and the trade show, this campaign will reach an estimated 600,000 attendees. Ultimately raising awareness of the Maldives as a top travel destination.

Adding to its strong presence, Visit Maldives will take part in ITB Berlin alongside a delegation of 200 stakeholders from 89 tourism industry companies. This marks a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to solidify its global footprint and expand its influence across key markets.

Additionally, the Maldives’ presence will include seminars, panel discussions, and media events, all aimed at strengthening its relationships with global industry partners. As Minister Thoriq Ibrahim heads to Berlin for the event, he will meet with both national and international partners. Together, they will discuss new opportunities to promote the Maldives as a leading travel destination and reinforce the nation’s commitment to global tourism.

The nation will also unveil innovative marketing initiatives such as the Visit Maldives Shop, Visit Maldives Calendar, and Visit Maldives Academy. Each initiative is designed to engage audiences and enhance the traveler experience. Furthermore, the Maldives will particularly focus on targeting new traveler segments, including MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Events), solo travelers, and groups. Additionally, the country will launch sustainable events like the Burunu Boma fishing competition.

Key Global Tourism Trends at ITB Berlin 2025

Several significant trends will dominate discussions at ITB Berlin 2025. These trends will shape the future of global tourism. For the Maldives, they align with its strategy of positioning itself as a sustainable and innovative destination.

Sustainability: As travelers become more eco-conscious, the Maldives continues to position itself as a leader in sustainable tourism. The country has received accolades as the World’s Leading Green Destination. At ITB Berlin 2025, the Maldives will showcase its eco-friendly initiatives, including its commitment to carbon-neutral tourism, preserving marine ecosystems, and promoting eco-resorts. The ITB Berlin Convention will highlight the importance of green destinations, and discussions will focus on how businesses can balance profitability with environmental responsibility.
Emerging Technology: The tourism sector is undergoing a digital revolution, with AI and automation leading the charge. ITB Berlin will showcase innovations in smart hotel automation, dynamic pricing tools, and virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies.
Economic Shifts and Resilience: Despite economic uncertainties, the global hotel industry remains resilient. ITB Berlin will explore how businesses can adapt to changing traveler preferences. New business models, such as direct bookings, metasearch engines, and subscription services, will take center stage.
Diversity and Inclusion: As the world becomes more interconnected, the travel industry embraces diversity. At ITB Berlin, attendees will explore how brands can cater to a wide range of traveler needs.

Tourism’s Economic Impact and Future Ambitions

Tourism remains the Maldives’ primary economic driver, contributing nearly 30% of the nation’s GDP. As one of the most sought-after destinations for luxury and eco-tourism, the Maldives continues to see growth. Tourism receipts increased by 15% in 2024. Additionally, the country achieved a milestone with one million annual tourist arrivals in 2024. At ITB Berlin 2025, the Maldives will not only showcase its luxurious resorts and stunning landscapes, but it will also highlight its commitment to preserving natural beauty while fostering a sustainable tourism model.

Looking ahead, the Maldives will continue to strengthen its position in the global tourism market. The country has set its sights on becoming the host country for ITB Berlin 2026. Having previously hosted the event in 2016, the Maldives aims to take on a more prominent role in the event’s logistics. This will ensure that its culture, natural beauty, and innovations are showcased on the world stage.

Shaping the Future of Travel

As ITB Berlin 2025 approaches, the global tourism industry is set to gather and explore the future of travel. With trends like sustainability, digital transformation, and emerging technologies leading the way, the event will be a pivotal moment for industry leaders to exchange ideas and set the course for what lies ahead. This year’s discussions will highlight how businesses and destinations can innovate and adapt to meet evolving traveler demands and environmental challenges.

For the Maldives, participating in ITB Berlin offers an opportunity to reaffirm its role as a leader in sustainable tourism. While the country’s commitment to eco-friendly practices remains at the heart of its efforts, the Maldives also stands ready to embrace digital innovations that are redefining the traveler experience. As global tourism continues to evolve, ITB Berlin 2025 will showcase how destinations like the Maldives are contributing to these broader shifts, ultimately influencing the industry’s trajectory for years to come.

Maldives’ Best Resorts: Forbes Travel Guide’s 2024 Five-Star Award Winners!