Tourism Industry Highlights for June 2021

We have rounded up the tourism industry highlights for June 2021. In terms of tourist arrivals, Maldives recorded the least number of tourist arrivals in June this year.

However, the tropical holiday destination maintained its status as a globally preferred holiday destination, welcoming over 55,000 tourists in the month.

Towards the end of June 2021, the COVID-19 situation in the capital of the Maldives has eased. Likewise, the government lifted several restrictions in the capital region, alongside the announcement to welcome tourists from South Asian countries once again.

Check out the top tourism industry highlights for June 2021.

Opening of 02 New Resorts

June 2021 saw two new resorts making their debut in the Maldives. On 1st June 2021, the legendary Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C made its debut in the Maldives, with the opening of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Located on the Fari Islands, an archipelago on the north-eastern tip of North Malé Atoll The Ritz-Carlton Maldives will revolutionize the luxury landscape of the Maldives.

Tourism Industry Highlights for June 2021 — *Image: Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives*

On 6th June 2021, Kochi-based firm, MFAR Hotels & Resorts Pvt Ltd opened Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, also a luxury resort. This new resort features an experience-driven concept and is home to a diverse collection of gourmet dining options.

Hilton Announces Plans to Open a Fourth Property in the Maldives

Hilton Maldives Amingiri — *Image: Hilton Hotels & Resorts*

Hilton Hotels & Resorts announced the signing of a management agreement with Amingiri Holdings Pvt Ltd to launch its 4th property in the Maldives; the 109 all-villa Hilton Maldives Amingiri.

Amingiri Holdings Pvt Ltd is a subsidiary of Maldivian construction and real estate development company, Amin Construction Pvt Ltd. Currently, Hilton operates Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton in the Maldives.

05 General Manager Appointments

Ibrahim Nahid: Villa Hotels & Resorts announced the appointment of established leader, Nahid as the general manager of Paradise Island Resort & Spa. According to Villa Hotels, Nahid will lead the activation of the new concept on the property and instigate several sustainable initiatives in keeping with Villa Hotels & Resorts mission to preserve and protect the natural environment.

Kanruethai Roongruang: Kan takes the helm of two resorts, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Angsana Ihuru in the Maldives. She brings over 20 years of experience in the Banyan Tree Group to the Maldives.

Amila Jeewantha Handunwala: Raffles Maldives Meradhoo announced the appointment of Amila Jeewantha Handunwala as the new General Manager of the property. He brings over 25 years of experience in the industry to the luxury resort. According to Raffles, Amila has previously led hotel operations, sales, marketing, revenue management and distribution strategies in the Middle East, South Asia and Europe.

Nicolas Khairallah: After working as the Resort Manager for Gili Lankanfushi, Nicholas took the helm of the resort as the General Manager from 1st June 2021 onwards.

Patrice Aira: With an extensive career across the globe — United States, Canada, Egypt and the Indian Ocean, Patrice brings 25 years of expertise in the industry to LUX* South Ari Atoll.

The Maldives Surpasses 500,000 Tourist Arrivals

The Maldives passed the half a million tourist arrivals mark in June 2021. The island nation also has an ambitious goal to welcome 1.5 million tourists this year.

Tourism Ministry Announces Plans to Welcome Travellers from South Asia Once Again

The Maldives’ Ministry of Tourism announced plans to resume issuing on-arrival tourist visas to visitors from South Asia. From 15th July 2021 onwards travellers from South Asian countries (including India) can visit the Maldives with a negative PCR test. The ministry said further details will be announced in the coming weeks.

Emirates Carries over 100,000 Passengers to the Maldives

By 23rd June 2021, Emirates carried over 100,000 passengers to the Maldives. Likewise, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates made over 1,218 movements to the Maldives between 1st January and 23rd June 2021.

With the resumption of issuing visas to travellers from South Asia, tourist arrivals to the Maldives will likely increase in July 2021 compared to June 2021. To keep up with the latest travel trends and news, follow us on Twitter and join our travel community on Facebook.

Feature image by The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

JW Marriott, part of the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio, which includes over 30 prestigious hotel brands, has unveiled its second resort in the Maldives: the JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. The resort sits within the expansive Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon, just a 15-minute boat ride from Velana International Airport. As a result, guests can easily reach this serene and luxurious destination in the heart of a tropical paradise.

Bruce Rohr, Vice President & Global Brand Leader of JW Marriott, stated

“JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island embodies our dedication to blending unparalleled luxury with holistic
well-being, offering guests a peaceful escape where every detail is designed to inspire balance and
rejuvenation. With the Maldives’ natural beauty as a backdrop, we aim to provide an exceptional experience that deeply resonates with those seeking tranquility, mindfulness, and world-class service. We look forward to welcoming guests to this extraordinary destination, where they can truly disconnect and find harmony.”

A Tranquil Haven of Luxury Villas, Designed to Harmonize with Nature

The resort features 80 private pool villas, designed by renowned architect Cuneyt Bukulmez of Atolye4N. These villas blend contemporary design with Maldivian heritage. Of these, 47 villas float above the turquoise waters, each offering expansive terraces with panoramic views of the ocean. As a result, guests can fully immerse themselves in nature’s beauty.

Inspired by the traditional Maldivian ‘Gedhoru’ huts, the villas incorporate kajan roofs and vibrant turquoise doors. The neutral tones and subtle references to Maldivian lacquerware crafts enhance the serene atmosphere. The design focuses on both aesthetics and a deep connection to nature. Floor-to-ceiling windows invite the ocean inside, while open-air showers and private pools encourage guests to indulge in their natural surroundings. Every detail fosters a mindful and luxurious escape.

For guests seeking even more space, the Three-Bedroom Ocean Residence provides an exceptional sanctuary. Elevated above the ocean, this residence offers ample space for families or groups of friends. Panoramic views serve as a breathtaking backdrop for shared moments of joy, while the seamless integration of architectural elegance and natural beauty elevates the experience.

The resort also focuses on eco-conscious luxury. Crafted from natural materials such as timber and stone, the villas enhance the beauty of the Maldives while promoting sustainability. The arrival jetty, inspired by the graceful flight of the Maakana heron, exemplifies the integration of local elements with modern design. Together, the resort’s architectural brilliance and the island’s natural beauty create a peaceful haven where luxury and sustainability effortlessly coexist.

Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager of JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, said,

“When envisioning this resort, every detail was carefully crafted to reflect the timeless beauty of
Maldives, with a focus on creating not just a memorable vacation, but an unforgettable journey. Our goal is to provide guests with a true sanctuary, where luxury and well-being converge. With JW Marriott’s signature warmth and hospitality, we invite guests to fully immerse themselves in the magic of the Maldives, nurturing both the mind and body. ”

A Culinary Journey for the Senses

The resort offers seven distinct dining venues and bars, each providing a culinary experience that delights the senses. Guests can savor a wide variety of flavors, ranging from international cuisine to local Maldivian specialties. Every dish is crafted using the finest, sustainably sourced ingredients, ensuring guests enjoy a world-class dining experience.

At Veyo, the international menu features fresh, flavorful ingredients, paired with panoramic views that awaken the senses. For a more relaxed experience, the Wahoo infinity pool bar offers refreshing drinks and delicious bites in a laid-back atmosphere. Meanwhile, Athiri, the resort’s signature steakhouse, impresses with its two-story design, inspired by the ebb and flow of ocean waves, and its expertly prepared cuts of meat.

For guests seeking a vibrant dining experience, Nikkei blends the best of Peruvian and global influences. This venue serves light bites and craft cocktails in an elegant, chic setting. Riva offers a fine dining experience, reinterpreting the flavors of the Indian Ocean by blending traditional Indian, Sri Lankan, and Maldivian dishes. On the other hand, Pure serves fresh, locally sourced ingredients, many of which come from the on-site JW Garden, making for an intentional and eco-conscious dining experience.

Tito’s, the resort’s deli and patisserie, offers an assortment of handcrafted delights, including decadent chocolates, delicate macarons, and rich truffles. Every dining experience at the resort is designed to create lasting memories and foster connection.

Restoration and Rejuvenation at the Overwater Spa

At the Overwater Spa by JW, guests indulge in luxurious treatments featuring BABOR’s precision skincare products—making this a first for the Maldives. The signature Ocean Bliss treatment combines BABOR’s luxurious anti-aging range with ingredients sourced from the depths of the sea. This treatment offers a transformative experience that merges island relaxation with the best skincare.

Wellness enthusiasts can also enjoy sunrise yoga, a state-of-the-art fitness center with ocean views, and a lap pool. These spaces nurture both the body and mind, promoting overall well-being.

Guests seeking adventure can explore marine life through activities like snorkeling, diving, and bespoke ocean excursions. For those looking for a more exhilarating experience, the resort offers dolphin safaris, parasailing, or tranquil sunset cruises.

A Family-Centric Resort for All Ages

The resort’s Family by JW program ensures that guests of all ages can create unforgettable memories together. With a dedicated Kids’ and Teens’ Club, a colorful playground, and a child-friendly swimming pool, younger guests will stay entertained and engaged throughout their stay.

Children can explore, learn, and play through activities designed to inspire curiosity and creativity. Families can bond through interactive cooking classes, where they will use fresh, sustainably grown produce from the JW Garden to create culinary masterpieces. This garden not only supplies ingredients for the resort’s exceptional cuisine but also serves as a tranquil space for guests to reconnect with nature through gardening.

Sustainability and Innovation: A Vision for the Future

The resort is committed to environmental sustainability, which is evident in its groundbreaking partnership with INVENA. In response to the challenges posed by climate change and rising sea levels, the resort has introduced an innovative 30-meter-long underwater coastal structure. Designed in collaboration with the Self-Assembly Lab at MIT, this structure mitigates wave action and beach erosion while fostering marine life. Guests can engage with this fascinating project, contributing to efforts aimed at addressing climate challenges affecting island nations.

JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort offers the perfect blend of relaxation, luxury, sustainability, and adventure. Whether guests indulge in exceptional dining, unwind at the spa, or explore the marine wonders of the Maldives, the resort offers an experience designed to rejuvenate and inspire.