ONE&ONLYREETHI RAH

As the resort’s private yacht arrives at the jetty, guests are welcomed with chilled coconut water and a quiet efficiency that sets the tone for their stay. The first steps onto One&Only Reethi Rah’s island reveal a setting where attentive service and natural beauty are thoughtfully balanced. This immediate sense of calm and order captures the property’s approach to hospitality from the outset.

One&Only Reethi Rah has been selected for a 2025 Global Recognition Award, an achievement that stands out in a year with more than a thousand luxury hotels in contention. The resort’s consistent Forbes Five-Star ratings and the Maldives’ first Five-Star spa highlight a commitment to maintaining high standards in a competitive field. These recognitions reflect a focus on both guest satisfaction and operational consistency.

Distinctive features, such as twelve private beaches accessible directly from guest villas, contribute to a sense of privacy that is rare even among island resorts. Staff members are trained to notice and address needs before they are mentioned, whether replacing amenities or arranging spontaneous activities for families. This proactive approach, paired with carefully designed spaces, shapes the guest experience in a personal and unobtrusive way.

Villas Woven with Maldivian Grace

The resort’s Beach Villas offer 135 square meters of space, blending local materials with modern comforts and opening directly onto the sand. Over-water villas provide views of the lagoon, with features such as wrap-around hammocks and glass panels on the floors. The Grand Sunset Residence, at over 2,000 square meters, includes multiple bedrooms, private pools, and exclusive beachfront access.

Architect Jean-Michel Gathy’s design incorporates Maldivian elements with a contemporary touch, using coral stone and wood to create a sense of place. Room technology includes integrated lighting controls, climate systems, and high-quality audio; all managed discreetly to ensure comfort without distraction. Amenities such as Aesop bath products and premium bedding further support a restful environment.

“We woke to reef sharks gliding beneath our deck and returned at night to find the bath drawn, the room cooled to our preferred 23 °C and our son’s snorkel mask already repaired,” a guest shared, highlighting the resort’s attention to detail and guest preferences.

Dining, Dusk, and After-Dark Rhythms

The resort features eight dining venues, each with a distinct focus. Tapasake serves Japanese cuisine in an over-water setting, while Botanica offers dishes using produce grown on the island. Fanditha presents Middle Eastern-inspired meals in a relaxed beachfront environment. Chef Kiko Moya’s seasonal menus and a reef-to-table program ensure that local ingredients are central to the culinary experience.

Evenings bring a shift in the atmosphere, with Rah Bar offering signature cocktails and live music and the Beach Club hosting social gatherings. Private movie nights and wine tastings add to the options for guests seeking quieter or more exclusive experiences. The resort’s collaboration with partners, such as the Maldives Marine Institute, allows guests to learn about local marine life.

Special events and seasonal menus, along with partnerships for culinary and educational experiences, contribute to a diverse and engaging dining and entertainment program. These elements offer guests variety and a sense of connection to the location.

Wellness, Sustainability, and the Path Ahead

The spa at One&Only Reethi Rah provides a range of treatments, including Watsu therapy and Ayurvedic options, delivered by visiting and resident practitioners. Fitness facilities include modern equipment, group classes, and outdoor spaces for yoga and meditation. Recreational offerings include water sports, a football pitch, and guided excursions.

Sustainability initiatives are integrated into daily operations, from solar energy use to coral restoration projects. The resort’s EarthCheck Gold status reflects efforts to reduce waste and support the local environment, such as using glass bottles and sourcing ingredients locally. These measures are communicated to guests as part of the overall experience.

Looking ahead, the resort plans to expand its artist-in-residence program and introduce a hybrid-powered yacht for guest transfers. These developments aim to enhance cultural engagement and environmental responsibility, aligning with evolving guest expectations.