NH Hotels Makes Indian Ocean Debut with NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort

Minor Hotels, a leading hospitality group with more than 550 hotels in 56 countries, has announced the arrival of the first NH Hotels & Resorts branded property in the Indian Ocean, with NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort set to open its doors on September 1, 2024. Located in South Ari Atoll, approximately 25 minutes by seaplane from the capital Malé, NH Maldives Kuda Rah will offer marine enthusiasts unparalleled access to diving and snorkelling sites. Right in their backyard holidaymakers will find the Kuda Rah Thila, an underwater pinnacle teeming with coloured soft corals and frequented by marine life like blue striped snappers, turtles, napoleons and even the occasional white tip or grey reef shark. The atoll is also a well-known hotspot for some of the Maldives' largest marine wildlife, meaning whale shark and manta ray spotting adventures - along with more than 50 established dive sites - are only a short boat ride away from the resort.

NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort has just 51 modern deluxe suites and villas, each boasting an inner courtyard or beach-facing pool, and sized between 90 to 231 square metres. Inside, a blend of solid wood floors, a palette of chalky whites and creams with ocean-blue accents, and pitched roofs create a restful space that celebrates Maldivian topography. Culinary experiences at NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort are also offered. Sea Spray, with its stunning ocean views, offers sustained vitality throughout the day, featuring an international buffet-style menu that zigzags from breakfast favourites to inventive vegetarian dishes. At specialty restaurant Ocean, fresh-caught seafood delicacies are served a la carte, with guests able to handpick their favourite catch of the day, from lobsters to prawns, and customise their dishes to perfection with interactive dining options.

Glow, the bar and lounge overlooking the resort's central infinity pool, ensures beverages and snacks are never far away. At Malaa, an open-air show kitchen, guests can explore seafood-driven Maldivian cuisine through cooking classes accompanied by music performances. In-villa or bespoke beachside dining experiences can be arranged on request. At the spa, the treatment menu is a fusion of serenity and energy, with a focus on traditional Balinese and Thai massages alongside therapeutic options infused with local touches. Three treatment rooms, each equipped with a private steam room and Jacuzzi, offer relaxation, complemented by a manicure and pedicure room. A gym caters to fitness enthusiasts, ensuring a healthy routine is maintained. Young guests will be entertained at the dedicated indoor kids' club, and babysitting services provide peace of mind for parents.

Statements

Christophe Adam, general manager of NH Maldives Kuda Rah Resort, said: "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."

"Minor Hotels has long been one of the largest global hospitality operators in the Maldives, a destination of immense strategic importance for our group," said Dillip Rajakarier, CEO of Minor Hotels and group CEO of parent company Minor International. "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. This property represents our commitment to diversifying our portfolio while maintaining the high standards of quality and service that our guests have come to expect from Minor Hotels."

The resort caters to a wide range of interests, making it easy for guests to pause their busy lives and fall into a relaxed routine. Honeymooners can explore the beauty of the Maldivian archipelago through island hopping excursions, while families can delve deeper into the underwater world with diving and snorkelling experiences, as well as participating in coral planting initiatives, contributing to the restoration of the vibrant local ecosystem. Meanwhile, whale shark excursions and big game fishing expeditions promise unforgettable adventures infused with adrenaline.

The opening of NH Kuda Rah brings Minor Hotels' portfolio of properties in the Maldives to eight, and follows the debut of NH Collection to the archipelago last year. It also marks the third resort property globally under the NH Hotels & Resorts brand, following NH Marina Portimao Resort in Portugal and the opening last year of 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 speed boat or traditional Dhoni.