Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives celebrates a remarkable 40-year journey, having opened its doors in 1985 and become a beloved destination for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences and exceptional hospitality. Over the years, the resort has built a strong reputation as a place where guests return time and again to create memories and connect with nature. As the resort marks this significant milestone, its legacy continues to thrive, with a steadfast commitment to offering an unparalleled experience for every guest.

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Celebrating 40 Years of Excellence

Reflecting on this achievement, Mark Eletr, the General Manager of the resort, shared his thoughts, emphasizing the resort’s enduring commitment to its guests and the future:

“Celebrating four decades of Kandooma is a testament to the passion, dedication, and warm hospitality that have defined this island. From its very first guests in 1985 to those who continue to return, we are honoured to be part of so many cherished memories. Looking ahead, we will continue our commitment to sustainability, innovation, and providing truly unforgettable experiences for everyone who visits our shores.”

To commemorate this milestone, the resort will host a series of special events leading up to the official celebration on March 19, 2025. These festivities will include a variety of exciting activities, such as sustainability initiatives and exclusive surprises for guests checking in on the anniversary day. One of the key highlights will be the Anniversary Gala Dinner at Kandooma Café, where guests can enjoy live music from a DJ and singers. As a gesture of gratitude, the resort will also gift up to 40,000 IHG Rewards Points to lucky diners attending the gala.

Honoring Long-Serving Team Members

In addition to the festivities, the resort will honor its longest-serving team members as part of its celebration. In line with its commitment to environmental preservation, the resort will plant 40 coconut palms. Each tree, named after a dedicated staff member, will serve as a lasting symbol of their contributions to the resort’s success and its dedication to nature conservation. Zakariyya Mahmood, who has been part of the island since 1982 and now serves as Crew Leader for Plant Maintenance, and Mohamed Hashim, who began as a gardener in 1986 and now serves as Housekeeping Manager, will lead this meaningful tree-planting ceremony alongside their colleagues. Their decades of service have played an integral role in shaping the resort’s history and creating the welcoming atmosphere that guests enjoy today.

Mark Eletr also expressed his admiration for these long-serving employees, saying:

“Our people are the heart of Kandooma, and it is truly inspiring to see individuals like Zakariyya and Hashim, who have dedicated decades of their lives to this island. Their unwavering commitment makes Kandooma a home away from home for so many guests, and we are proud to celebrate their contributions as part of this special milestone.”

A Symbol of Legacy: The Underwater Time Capsule

In another unique addition to the anniversary celebrations, the resort will unveil the Underwater Time Capsule. This sealed waterproof container, filled with guest wishes, employee letters, and memorabilia, will be placed at one of the island’s dive sites. It will be retrieved ten years later, during the resort’s 50th anniversary celebrations in 2035, providing a lasting reminder of Kandooma’s enduring legacy.

Looking ahead, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives remains dedicated to evolving while preserving the authentic charm that has made it a cherished destination. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and creating meaningful experiences, the resort will continue offering exceptional stays for future generations of guests.