Minor Hotels has announced the debut of its first NH Hotels & Resorts branded property in the Maldives. NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort is set to open on September 1, 2024, in the South Ari Atoll, just 25 minutes by seaplane from the capital, Malé.
Located in one of the Maldives’ most coveted regions for marine exploration, NH Maldives Kuda Rah will offer unparalleled access to world-class diving and snorkeling sites. The resort is near the famous Kuda Rah Thila, an underwater pinnacle rich in vibrant soft corals and home to a variety of marine life, including blue striped snappers, turtles, napoleons, and occasionally, white tip or grey reef sharks. The atoll is also renowned for its large marine wildlife, with whale shark and manta ray spotting adventures only a short boat ride away.
NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort will be an intimate retreat, featuring 51 modern deluxe suites and villas, each designed with a private courtyard or beach-facing pool. The accommodations range from 90 to 231 square meters and boast interiors with solid wood floors, calming shades of white and cream, ocean-blue accents, and charming pitched roofs, creating a serene environment that reflects the natural beauty of the Maldives.
The resort’s dining options include Sea Spray, an ocean-view restaurant offering an international buffet-style menu, and Ocean, a specialty restaurant serving fresh-caught seafood with interactive dining options. The Glow bar and lounge, overlooking the central infinity pool, provides refreshing beverages and snacks, while Malaa, an open-air show kitchen, offers cooking classes focused on Maldivian seafood cuisine, accompanied by live music. Guests can also enjoy in-villa or bespoke beachside dining experiences on request.
The resort’s spa features a holistic treatment menu, blending traditional Balinese and Thai massages with locally inspired therapies. With three tranquil treatment rooms, each equipped with a private steam room and Jacuzzi, and a dedicated manicure and pedicure room, guests can indulge in complete relaxation. A state-of-the-art gym and a dedicated indoor kids’ club with babysitting services ensure that all guests, from fitness enthusiasts to families, are well catered for.
Christophe Adam, General Manager of NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort, expressed excitement about the opening: “We are proud to introduce NH Kuda Rah Resort Maldives as the first NH branded property in the Indian Ocean. Our resort is designed to provide guests with an intimate experience that is deeply connected to the natural beauty of the Maldives. Whether it’s diving at the renowned Kuda Rah Thila, enjoying the serene surroundings from their private villas, or embarking on watersport adventures like parasailing, we are dedicated to ensuring that every moment spent here is unforgettable.”
The resort offers a variety of activities tailored to different interests. Honeymooners can explore the Maldivian archipelago through island-hopping excursions, while families can participate in coral planting initiatives and dive into the underwater world. Additionally, whale shark excursions and big game fishing expeditions promise thrilling adventures.
Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and Group CEO of Minor International, highlighted the strategic importance of the Maldives for the group: “Minor Hotels has long been one of the largest global hospitality operators in the Maldives, a destination of immense strategic importance for our group. Adding to our luxury portfolio, the introduction of NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort marks our first upscale property in the archipelago, as we expand our reach and deliver a stunning Maldives experience to guests seeking the perfect blend of indulgence and accessibility.”
The opening of NH Kuda Rah brings Minor Hotels’ Maldives portfolio to eight properties and follows the introduction of NH Collection to the region last year. This also marks the third global resort under the NH Hotels & Resorts brand, 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.
