Minor Hotels is excited to announce the debut of its first NH Hotels and Resorts property in the Indian Ocean with the opening of NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort on September 1, 2024.
Located in the South Ari Atoll, just a 25-minute seaplane ride from Malé, the NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort offers marine enthusiasts exceptional access to some of the world's most stunning diving and snorkeling spots. Guests can explore the renowned Kuda Rah Thila, an underwater pinnacle rich with vibrant corals and frequented by diverse marine life, including blue-striped snappers, turtles, Napoleon wrasse, and occasionally, white tip or grey reef sharks.
The atoll is also a prime location for spotting large marine species like whale sharks and manta rays, with over 50 dive sites easily reachable by boat.
NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort is a secluded retreat featuring 51 modern deluxe suites and villas, each with an inner courtyard or beach-facing pool, ranging from 90 to 231 square meters. The design combines solid wood floors, a soothing color scheme of whites and ocean blues, and charming pitched roofs to create a serene environment that highlights Maldivian landscapes.
Dining at the resort is designed to match the leisurely pace of island life. Sea Spray, located by the central infinity pool, offers a variety of meals from breakfast staples to creative vegetarian dishes. Glow, the stylish bar and lounge, provides refreshing drinks and tasty snacks. Malaa, an open-air show kitchen, invites guests to enjoy Maldivian seafood through cooking classes and live music performances. For a more personalized experience, in-villa or beachside dining can be arranged upon request.
The resort’s spa offers a blend of traditional Balinese and Thai massages along with local therapeutic treatments. It features three tranquil treatment rooms with private steam rooms and Jacuzzis, a dedicated manicure and pedicure room, and a state-of-the-art gym. The resort also provides a kids' club and babysitting services for families.
Christophe Adam, General Manager of NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort, stated, “We are thrilled to introduce NH Kuda Rah Resort Maldives as the first NH-branded property in the Indian Ocean. Our resort is crafted to offer guests an intimate experience deeply connected to the Maldives' natural beauty. Whether diving at the famed Kuda Rah Thila, enjoying the serene private villas, or partaking in thrilling watersports, we are committed to making every moment here memorable.”
The resort caters to various interests, from honeymooners exploring the archipelago on island-hopping excursions to families engaging in exceptional diving and snorkeling, and participating in coral planting to help restore the local ecosystem. Whale shark excursions and big game fishing also provide exhilarating adventures.
Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of Minor International, remarked, “As one of the largest global hospitality operators in the Maldives, Minor Hotels is proud to expand our luxury portfolio with NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort. This new upscale property enhances our presence in the Maldives and delivers a premium experience that blends indulgence with accessibility, reflecting our commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and service.”
The opening of NH Kuda Rah brings Minor Hotels' Maldives portfolio to eight properties, following last year's introduction of NH Collection to the archipelago. It is also the third NH Hotels and Resorts property globally, joining NH Marina Portimao Resort in Portugal and NH Boat Lagoon Phuket Resort in Thailand.
NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort is accessible via a 25-minute seaplane journey from Malé, followed by a 5-10-minute transfer by speedboat or traditional Dhoni.