
JW Marriott Opens Luxury Resort in Maldives Offering Tranquility, Sustainability, and Family-Focused Experiences
The brand’s newest resort offers a refined escape through a blend of modern luxury, breathtaking design, and serene spaces, creating the perfect setting for rejuvenation and discovery
(IN SHORT) JW Marriott has unveiled its newest luxury destination, the JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, in the Maldives. Situated in Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon, the resort offers a tranquil sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation with 80 private pool villas, including 47 overwater villas. Designed by architect Cuneyt Bukulmez, the resort combines traditional Maldivian elements with modern luxury, focusing on sustainability with an innovative underwater coastal structure to combat beach erosion. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining experiences, wellness activities, and family-oriented programs, with a special emphasis on mindfulness and well-being. The resort also offers bespoke private dining and world-class treatments at the overwater Spa by JW.
(PRESS RELEASE) MALÉ, Republic of Maldives, 2025-Feb-10 — /Travel PR News/ — JW Marriott has proudly announced the opening of its new resort, the JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, located in the Maldives. As the second JW Marriott resort in the region, this luxurious retreat is positioned within Kaafu Atoll’s largest lagoon, only 15 minutes by boat from Velana International Airport. Designed to offer an idyllic sanctuary, the resort combines modern luxury with tranquil spaces to create the perfect setting for relaxation and personal rejuvenation.
“JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island epitomizes our commitment to blending luxury with holistic well-being,” said Bruce Rohr, Vice President & Global Brand Leader, JW Marriott. “We’ve designed this space to inspire balance and provide a retreat that supports mindfulness, offering guests the chance to disconnect and achieve harmony.”
The resort features 80 private pool villas, with 47 of them perched over the water, offering uninterrupted ocean views and serene surroundings. The Three-Bedroom Ocean Residence, specifically designed for families or groups, provides a luxurious and expansive space for connection, along with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Each villa is thoughtfully crafted, merging traditional island aesthetics with modern design, ensuring a perfect harmony between nature and luxury.
Architect Cuneyt Bukulmez from Atolye4N designed the resort, seamlessly integrating local Maldivian elements with modern sophistication. The architecture features a striking arrival jetty, inspired by the flight of the Maakana heron, and the villas mirror the ‘Gedhoru’ style with their unique roofs and vibrant touches. The design emphasizes natural materials such as timber and stone, enhancing the connection to the island’s pristine beauty.
In a pioneering collaboration with INVENA and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the resort also introduces a 30-meter-long underwater coastal structure. This project addresses environmental challenges, including beach erosion and the impact of climate change, while fostering marine life by creating a reef habitat. Guests will have the chance to engage with this groundbreaking initiative, contributing to the scientific efforts aimed at preserving the region’s delicate ecosystems.
Guests at the resort can indulge in a diverse culinary experience at seven different dining venues, from the international flavors at Veyo to the fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine at Nikkei. The resort also offers Pure, a farm-to-table dining experience using fresh ingredients from the JW Garden, and Tito’s, a charming patisserie offering handcrafted chocolates and pastries. For those seeking more exclusive experiences, bespoke private dining options are available, designed to create lasting memories.
At the resort’s overwater Spa by JW, guests can experience rejuvenating treatments, including the signature Ocean Bliss therapy, featuring BABOR’s premium anti-aging skincare products. The resort also offers a wide range of wellness activities, such as sunrise yoga, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and lap pools. For adventure enthusiasts, options such as dolphin safaris, parasailing, and marine life exploration await.
With its Family by JW program, the resort caters to guests of all ages. The Kids’ and Teens’ Club, along with various family-oriented activities such as interactive cooking classes, ensure that every member of the family enjoys an enriching experience. Families can bond over creative activities, gardening, and shared culinary adventures, making this an unforgettable destination for multigenerational travel.
“Our goal is to provide guests with a sanctuary where luxury and well-being converge,” said Srikanth Devarapalli, General Manager of the JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort. “We are excited to welcome guests to this paradise, where they can immerse themselves fully in the magic of the Maldives and nurture both mind and body.”
For more information or reservations, visit www.jwmarriottkaafuatoll.com.
ABOUT JW MARRIOTT
JW Marriott is part of Marriott International’s luxury portfolio of brands and consists of beautiful properties and distinctive resort locations around the world. JW Marriott is a tribute to the founder of Marriott International, J. Willard “J.W.” Marriott, who prioritized his own well-being so that he could take better care of others. Inspired by his approach to life and rooted in holistic well-being, JW Marriott properties offer a haven designed to allow guests to focus on feeling whole – present in mind, nourished in body, and revitalized in spirit – through programs and offerings that encourage them to come together and experience every moment to the fullest. Today there are 125 JW Marriott hotels in 40 countries and territories worldwide that cater to sophisticated, mindful travelers who come seeking experiences that help them be fully present, foster meaningful connections and feed the soul. Visit JW Marriott online, and on Instagram and Facebook. JW Marriott is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including complimentary nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.
ABOUT MARRIOTT BONVOY
Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with more than 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com.
Media Contact:
Ankita Thakur
Director of Marketing and Communications
JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort
Ankita.Thakur@JWMarriott.com
Source: Marriott International, Inc.
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