Spread across the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, the Maldives is composed of islands defined by their individual cultures, customs and rhythms of life. Within this environment, Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort and Naladhu Private Island Maldives unite as a coordinated trio, inviting guests to explore a seamless progression through Maldivian heritage, culinary exploration and holistic wellbeing. While each property maintains its own identity, all three share a common philosophy, creating an experience that transitions naturally from lively island energy to social interaction and ultimately to private retreat.
Anantara Dhigu, positioned as the family-oriented centre of the trio, offers guests of all generations opportunities to connect with local traditions through immersive activities led by a dedicated Cultural Insider. Its elevated dining venues present international cuisine enriched with island influences, while the weekly Maldivian Night at Fushi Cafe brings cultural traditions to life under the evening sky through music, dance and locally inspired dishes. Guests spend their days across the resort’s expansive lagoon, enjoying a broad selection of water-based activities, complemented by restorative treatments at Anantara Spa. There, time-honoured techniques and natural elements such as Maldivian sand are incorporated into the Sand Healing treatment to rejuvenate body and mind.
At the adults-only Anantara Veli, cultural engagement takes on a more social and reflective dimension. The introduction of Veli Maalan establishes a dynamic venue for cultural gatherings and collaborations with local partners, including initiatives with organisations such as the Olive Ridley Project, underscoring the resort’s ongoing dedication to community involvement and the preservation of cultural heritage.
Wellness at Anantara Veli draws deeply from Maldivian spiritual traditions through Balance Wellness by Anantara. The Kurumba Ceremony, inspired by the coconut tree, known locally as the “Tree of Life”, incorporates coconut oil, gentle massage techniques and grounding practices to promote renewal and equilibrium. Guests can further enrich their experience with the Widelia Healing Ceremony, a traditional Maldivian ritual newly introduced for its emphasis on emotional release and energetic alignment, heightened by the surrounding rhythms of the ocean.
Completing the trio, Naladhu Private Island Maldives interprets Maldivian culture through an intimate and highly personalised approach, introducing new experiences designed to feel entirely individual. Among these is Malaafaiy, a signature dining ritual inspired by the traditional Maldivian serving platter. Conceived to reflect the warmth of communal home-style dining, Malaafaiy presents refined interpretations of local cuisine within the privacy and discretion of the resort’s Coconut Grove, supported by attentive and personalised service.
“Malaafaiy is our way of welcoming guests into the heart of Maldivian culture. It is an intimate celebration of flavours, traditions and storytelling – unmistakably Naladhu,” said Ali Shameem, Resort Manager of Naladhu Private Island Maldives.
Beyond its culinary offerings, Naladhu has introduced a dedicated Cultural Corner to foster deeper engagement with Maldivian heritage. Guided by the island’s Cultural Insider, guests are invited to hear stories from earlier generations, craft keepsakes by weaving palm leaves, and take part in intimate Boduberu drumming sessions. Each experience unfolds at an unhurried pace, reflecting Naladhu’s philosophy of meaningful and considered cultural immersion.
Collectively, Anantara Dhigu, Anantara Veli and Naladhu Private Island present a unified narrative that highlights the Maldives beyond its natural scenery, paying tribute to its communities, traditions and lifestyle.
“Across the trio, we are proud to offer distinct yet interconnected experiences that bring together culture, culinary excellence and holistic wellbeing,” said Jason Kruse, Complex General Manager for Anantara Maldives. “Each resort has its own identity, yet together they reflect Anantara’s commitment to meaningful journeys that nourish the body and enrich the soul,” he added.
