Since welcoming its first guests in 1985, Kandooma Island in the South Male Atoll has been a beacon of warm hospitality and memorable moments, building a legacy that now spans four decades. As Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2025, it reflects on its storied past while committing to a future of sustainability and unparalleled guest experiences. Located just a 45-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, this tropical oasis features pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, spacious beachfront and overwater villas, seven dining venues, a world-class spa, and a variety of activities catering to divers and non-divers alike.
The celebration will culminate on March 19, 2025, with a series of special events planned in the preceding weeks. The Anniversary Gala Dinner at Kandooma Café promises to be the highlight, featuring a live DJ, singers, and an exciting opportunity for lucky diners to win up to 40,000 IHG Rewards Points as a token of appreciation for loyal guests. Those checking in and staying on the anniversary date will also enjoy exclusive surprises. For more information on the festivities, visit www.maldives.holidayinnresorts.com or email reservations.hikandooma@ihg.com.
Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, shared his thoughts on this milestone: "Forty years of Kandooma showcases the dedication and passion that have shaped this island since 1985. From our earliest visitors to those who return year after year, we’re privileged to be part of their cherished memories. Looking ahead, we remain focused on sustainability, innovation, and crafting extraordinary experiences for everyone who visits."
The resort is honoring its team and environment through heartfelt initiatives. Forty of Kandooma’s longest-serving staff members, including Zakariyya Mahmood (Crew Leader for Plant Maintenance since 1982, before the resort even opened) and Mohamed Hashim (Housekeeping Manager since starting as a gardener in 1986), will plant 40 coconut palms, each bearing their name. This tree-planting ceremony celebrates their enduring contributions while reinforcing the resort’s dedication to preserving its natural surroundings. Eletr added, "Our team is the essence of Kandooma. The decades of service from individuals like Zakariyya and Hashim have made this island a home away from home for countless guests, and it’s an honor to celebrate their impact during this milestone."
A forward-thinking highlight is the Underwater Time Capsule, a sealed waterproof container filled with guest wishes, staff letters, and memorabilia. It will be placed at a dive site during the anniversary and retrieved in 2035 for the resort’s 50th celebration, symbolizing Kandooma’s ongoing legacy. From its origins as a peaceful private retreat to its present-day status as a beloved destination, Kandooma Maldives continues to evolve, blending authentic island charm with modern hospitality to create meaningful connections for every visitor.