The Maldives is the most-booked international destination for UAE travellers this summer, accounting for one in five overseas hotel bookings, according to dnata Travel
The Maldives was the most-booked international destination for UAE travellers this summer, accounting for one in five overseas hotel bookings, according to the latest data from dnata Travel. Thailand, Mauritius, Canada and Australia also featured among the top five destinations.
According to dnata Travel data, overseas travellers booked an average five-night stay, with demand for four- and five-star hotels remaining strong. Average booking values also increased 16 per cent year-on-year, reflecting strong demand for premium international travel experiences overall.
Here’s a rundown of TTN’s top news snippets from properties around the Maldives.
Dusit Thani Maldives refreshes villas
Dusit Thani Maldives has unveiled refreshed villas as part of a wider enhancement programme designed to elevate the guest experience while preserving the resort's signature character. The refurbishment covers selected Beach Residences, Overwater Pool Villas and Overwater Pavilions. It introduces lighter interiors, updated furnishings, renewed timber ceiling finishes and contemporary lighting inspired by the island's tropical surroundings.
Further upgrades, including enhancements to selected dining venues, are scheduled from Q3 2026, with the overall programme set for completion in Q3 2027. The resort has also launched a refreshed website, making it easier for guests to explore accommodation options and plan personalised stays.
Gili Lankanfushi launches cookbook
Gili Lankanfushi Maldives will launch Plant to Plate: Vegan Recipes from Gili Lankanfushi Maldives in October 2026, marking the debut cookbook of Executive Chef Harinath Govindaraj and celebrating his 20 years at the resort. Published by St James's House, the book features more than 60 plant-based recipes, including breakfasts, mains, desserts and signature drinks, inspired by seasonal ingredients and Chef Hari's South Indian heritage.
Available through the resort's website and on the island, the cookbook also highlights the resort's focus on sustainability and wellness. Twenty-five per cent of profits will be donated to the Cancer Society of Maldives.
Meyyafushi unveils full experience
Meyyafushi Maldives has unveiled its fully realised luxury island experience, combining 94 private pool villas and suites with contemporary design, curated experiences and premium dining. The resort's culinary offering includes multiple restaurants and the newly opened Raa overwater wine cellar.
Signature attractions include the Bubble Underwater Restaurant, the world's first fixed overwater padel tennis court, and an adults-only Sky Bar and Sunken Lounge with a glass-bottom infinity pool.
Located 35 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport, the resort also offers curated excursions, personalised service and a premium all-inclusive concept designed to blend luxury, adventure and relaxation.
JA Manafaru debuts luxury residence
JA Manafaru has unveiled its new Three-Bedroom Residence, described as the largest of its kind in the Maldives, spanning 5,800 sqm. Located in Haa Alifu Atoll, the Three-Bedroom Residence accommodates up to six adults, three children and two infants. Designed as a private beachfront estate, it features a beach, pools, spa pavilion, indoor and outdoor dining areas, and dedicated Thakuru butler service.
The launch is complemented by the resort's Maldives Private Residence Escape, available for five-night stays until December 23. The offer includes 30 per cent savings for JA DISCOVERY members, complimentary seaplane transfers, airport meet-and-greet service, laundry, priority dining reservations and personalised experiences.
Siyam World adds shipwreck attraction
Siyam World Maldives has unveiled a new shipwreck dive site in Noonu Atoll after transforming a former Maldivian tuna freighter into an artificial reef. Developed with Sun Diving, the project combines marine conservation with a new diving experience. Coral restoration and biodiversity monitoring form part of the resort's Wreck to Reef initiative under the Sun Siyam Cares platform. The wreck, which lies at depths of between 10 and 24 metres, is already attracting diverse marine life.
Kandooma begins new chapter
Hotel Properties Limited (HPL) and InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) will conclude their management agreement for Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives on September 30, 2026. From October 1, 2026, the resort will operate as Kandooma Maldives, managed by HPL Hotels & Resorts.
The resort will become the group's 13th property and its second Maldivian destination. A phased enhancement programme, Kandooma Next Chapter, will introduce refreshed all-villa accommodation, upgraded facilities and new experiences. Andrew Drummond has returned as General Manager to oversee the transition. The resort will remain open throughout the upgrade works and continue welcoming guests as normal.
Halcyon launches all-inclusive package
The Halcyon Private Isles Maldives has introduced its All Inclusive Indulgence package, offering guests a fully inclusive stay across its two private islands in Gaafu Alifu Atoll. The package includes daily breakfast, lunch and dinner at the resort's signature restaurants, together with beverages at all restaurants and bars and 24-hour butler service.
Once per stay, guests also receive a floating breakfast, afternoon high tea, a romantic beach dinner, a guided snorkelling tour, a kayaking experience, a 20-minute professional photoshoot with one printed photograph, and a bottle of champagne on arrival.
The resort features beachfront and overwater villas with private pools.
Maxx Royal debuts Maldives resort
Maxx Royal has announced the launch of Maxx Royal Maldives, a luxury island resort scheduled to open in autumn 2027. Located in the Kaafu Atoll, just 30 minutes by boat from Malé, the resort will feature private pool villas, including secluded multi-bedroom residences, alongside a range of dining concepts led by internationally renowned brands and chefs.
The property will also offer dedicated facilities for families, wellness experiences, sports amenities, and personalised butler services. Sustainability will play a central role through a Marine Biology Centre, a Manta Protection Programme and LEED-certified design. The opening marks the brand's expansion beyond Türkiye into the Maldives' luxury hospitality market.