The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

Marriott’s flagship luxury brand, The Ritz-Carlton will debut in the Maldives in May 2021. The 100-villa ultra-luxury resort is one of the most anticipated upcoming properties in the Maldives. Thus, travelers are itching to find out what the world-class hospitality brand is bringing to the Maldives. Here’s what we know so far about The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands.

Located in Fari Islands – An elevated Maldives Resort Experience

Fari Islands presents three world-class hospitality brands to the Maldives. The three luxury hotels will be operated by Capella Hotels & Resorts, The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, and Patina Hotels & Resorts. In addition to that, Fari Islands also offers a picturesque Fari Marina, a vibrant Fari Beach Club, charming boutiques, and a selection of handpicked, upscale food and beverage options.

According to Pontiac Land, the developer of the Fari Islands, spaces at the integrated destination are masterfully designed by renowned architects from Studio Mk27 (by Marcio Kogan), Kengo Kuma & Associates, and Kerry Hill Architects. Hence, these spaces bring a delicate balance of serene and social.

Meanwhile, the thoughtfully crafted Fari Village presents a dedicated island for staff as well. This island focuses on community, education, and engagement. Likewise, the Fari Village will be a first-of-its-kind in the Maldives.

A unique Butler Concept ‘Aris Meeha’

Ritz-Carlton presented Aris Meeha, a butler concept inspired by the royal courts of the ancient Maldives. In Dhivehi language (the official language of the Maldives), Aris Meeha refers to a person who remains assigned to a royal member. So, they are one of the most important positions among the many titles and rankings in a Maldivian Royal household.

Similar to a modern-day butler, Aris Meeha fulfills every detail of the life of a royal. The person is considered to be the closest confidant much like a Gentleman’s gentleman or Lady in waiting or Gentlemen or Lady of the Chamber. Furthermore, The concept relates to the brand’s motto of ‘We are Ladies & Gentlemen serving Ladies & Gentlemen’.

The people remain the most valuable asset of the Ritz-Carlton brand. And the close connection of Aris Meeha to the local history and culture opens an exciting career path for passionate butlers to be part of a team that truly delivers a legendary service.

Environmental Ambassadors – Naturalists

The naturalists are a part of the distinguished team of Ladies & Gentlemen at Ritz-Carlton Maldives. Their Role is to ‘connect guests to nature’. Hence, the naturalists will lead a host of well-designed experiences tailored around special interests of the island including; discovery, sports & wellness, culture, and sustainability.

Additionally, the Naturalist who is the environmental ambassador is responsible for curating entertaining adventures for young travellers. Ritz-Carlton aims to create meaningful experiences for guests that leave long-lasting global footprints. After all, the brand genuinely believes that guest engagement plays a vital role to protect nature for a sustainable future.

Sangu Magazine and Sangu Stories

The ‘Sangu Magazine’ brings news about the island every month. The magazine is named after the Dhivehi word for conch shell (or triton). Traditionally in the Maldives, the sound of Sangu denoted a meeting or news. Thus, alerting and gathering people in islands. So, the magazine derives its name from the tradition to share the news.

Meanwhile, ‘Sangu Stories’ is a podcast designed to share the latest stories from the island to guests and followers worldwide. Mark Hehir, the general manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives; a seasoned Maldives expert with over 30 years of experience hosts the podcast.

Now Accepting Reservations for May 2021

Yes, you can actually reserve your stay at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives 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. Go to https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/maldives-fari-islands for reservations.

Could The Ritz-Carlton Maldives be the pinnacle of luxury resorts in the Maldives? We know for sure the resort brings to life the best spirit of the Maldives. Besides that, the resort nestles within close proximity to Velana International Airport. This ensures accessibility to Fari Islands quick with either a 50-minute speedboat ride or a 10-minute seaplane journey.

Feature image by The Ritz-Carlton Maldives

A luxurious Champagne and fine dining experience returns to the Maldives as Champagne Guy Charbaut and THE OZEN COLLECTION celebrate five years of their signature collaboration. From 20 to 26 October 2025, guests at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO and OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI will enjoy a week of exclusive events. These experiences celebrate rare vintages, gourmet cuisine, and island elegance. The collaboration brings together the rich heritage of Champagne Guy Charbaut. A family-run house from Mareuil-sur-Aÿ, France with the curated luxury of THE OZEN COLLECTION.

What Makes This Partnership So Special?

Founded in 1936, Champagne Guy Charbaut has spent nearly a century perfecting its craft. The winery creates elegant cuvées shaped by the limestone terroir of the French countryside. Meanwhile, THE OZEN COLLECTION delivers immersive hospitality in some of the world’s most stunning settings. When you bring these two together, you get something pretty special.

That’s exactly what happened here. This partnership blends Champagne, culinary artistry, and island luxury into a one-of-a-kind annual tradition.

Xavier Charbaut puts it perfectly:
“We have discovered something extraordinary with THE OZEN COLLECTION. What began as a meeting of philosophies—our devotion to terroir, their dedication to moments—has blossomed into a tradition that reinvents itself each year. These shores have become a second home for our champagnes. The salt-kissed air seems to amplify their vibrancy. As we raise our glasses to five years of shared excellence, we see not an endpoint, but a horizon brimming with possibilities.”

And that’s not all. Looking ahead, he adds:
“The next chapter will unveil even more daring pairings. More intimate encounters with our rarest vintages. And perhaps a few surprises we’re still carefully guarding in our cellars.”

Where and When: Event Highlights at Both Resorts

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO: 20–22 October 2025

First up, Maadhoo kicks off the celebration with three days of indulgence:

20 October – Underwater Dining at M6m
To start things off, guests will enjoy lunch and dinner in the iconic underwater restaurant. Each course comes paired with exclusive Champagnes chosen for the occasion.

21 October – Champagne & Spice Dinner at TRADITION INDOCEYLON
The celebration continues with a bold and flavour-packed Franco-Indian dinner. Here, vibrant spices meet refined bubbles in a pairing that’s full of surprises.

22 October – Champagne Brunch Royale at THE PALMS
To wrap up the Maadhoo leg in style, guests can unwind at a breezy Champagne brunch. The pours and the vibes are equally generous.

OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI: 24–26 October 2025

Next, it’s Bolifushi’s turn to pop the cork:

24 October – World Champagne Day at ORIGINƎ
What better way to celebrate World Champagne Day? This over-water dining experience pairs ocean-inspired dishes with some of the house’s finest vintages.

25 October – Champagne & Spice at SAFFRON
Back by popular demand, this flavour-packed dinner returns with a fresh round of Indian warmth and French finesse. If you missed it at Maadhoo, now’s your chance.

26 October – Sunset Pool Party at OZAR
Finally, the week winds down with a golden-hour pool party. Chilled Champagne, music, and sunset views take centre stage. It’s the kind of farewell you won’t forget anytime soon.

A Shared Commitment to Craft and Experience

Of course, the collaboration doesn’t stop when the week ends. Champagne Guy Charbaut’s bottles remain available across both resorts throughout the year.

Whether you’re sipping the Cuvée de Réserve ‘Old Vines’ Brut or the vibrant Rosé 1er Cru Brut, each bottle offers a new reason to celebrate.

Nicolas Laguette, Director of Wines at Atmosphere Core, sums it up well:
“The union between Champagne Guy Charbaut and THE OZEN COLLECTION represents the very essence of what modern luxury should be. A harmonious dialogue between heritage and innovation, where every detail is considered and every moment is elevated.”

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands—What we Know so Far