Velaa Private Island

The morning sun filters through palm fronds as a guest steps onto the terrace of Villa 26, greeted by a quiet ocean view and a tray of fresh fruit and coffee already waiting. Their butler, attentive yet unobtrusive, has arranged the day’s activities based on a casual mention of dolphin watching. This attention to individual preference is a defining feature of Velaa Private Island, where each detail is carefully considered to enhance the guest experience.

Velaa Private Island has been awarded a 2025 Global Recognition Award, a distinction that highlights its steady performance in the highly competitive world of luxury hospitality. In a sector with consistently high standards, this recognition signals Velaa’s ability to deliver consistently high-quality service and unique experiences. The property’s recent accolades, including being named the World’s Leading Private Island Resort in 2023 and 2024, underscore its ongoing commitment to quality and guest satisfaction.

This award follows a thorough evaluation process, with Velaa Private Island standing out among more than 500 nominees from 80 countries. The resort’s approach, which blends thoughtful service with a focus on comfort and privacy, has earned it recognition from both industry experts and guests. “Being named among the World’s Top Hotels and Resorts in 2024 by the Global Recognition Awards reflects Velaa’s dedication to personal service, and we are all very proud,” says Lisa Jakobsson, Director of PR, Marketing, and Events at Velaa Private Island.

Signature Experiences and Architectural Approach

Velaa Private Island’s design, inspired by the shape of a turtle, is a notable feature that connects the property to its natural surroundings. Architect Petr Kolář’s vision is evident in the arrangement of overwater villas and the use of materials sourced from different regions, such as Jordanian stone, Indonesian pottery, and Italian marble. This blend of influences creates a setting that is both distinctive and respectful of local traditions.

The resort offers experiences that are not commonly found elsewhere in the Maldives, such as the only snow room in the country, where guests can enjoy a cooling session after time in the sun. The Wellbeing Village provides guests with various wellness options, combining modern treatments and traditional practices. These features, along with the resort’s collection of advanced water sports equipment and private yacht excursions, add a layer of variety to the guest experience.

Staff at Velaa are trained to notice and respond to guest preferences, often arranging activities or amenities before requests are made. For example, a guest’s interest in marine life might prompt a spontaneous invitation to join a guided snorkeling tour with the resident marine biologist. This proactive approach, combined with innovative services and partnerships, helps the resort maintain its reputation for attentive hospitality.

Accommodations and Guest Service

The resort’s 47 villas and residences range in size and style, each offering private infinity pools and direct access to the beach or lagoon. Design elements such as mahogany panels, teak furnishings, and bamboo lighting reflect local and international influences. Bathrooms feature Italian marble, heated floors, and Clarins amenities, providing a comfortable and well-appointed environment for guests.

The Romantic Pool Residence, accessible only by boat, is designed for privacy and includes a gym, spa treatment room, and a dining gazebo positioned for sunset views. The villa’s layout allows guests to move easily between indoor and outdoor spaces, with direct access to the ocean for swimming and snorkeling. These accommodations are intended to offer both comfort and a sense of seclusion.

Guest feedback highlights the value of the butler service, with one visitor noting, “Of course, the first one we want to appreciate is our butler Ali, who is arranging all of our things from morning to night.” The butler team coordinates with other staff to ensure that guest needs are met promptly and discreetly, contributing to a relaxed and personalized stay.

Culinary and Wellness Offerings

Dining at Velaa Private Island includes several venues, with Aragu restaurant led by Michelin-starred chef Adeline Grattard. Her menu combines elements of Sino-French cuisine, using local ingredients to create dishes that reflect tradition and innovation. The restaurant’s location over the water adds to the atmosphere, while dishes like Maldivian lobster in chili broth showcase the chef’s approach to flavor and presentation.

Tavaru Tower features a Teppanyaki restaurant and the Maldives’ largest wine and champagne collection, offering guests a range of options for both casual and special occasions. Athiri, the beachfront dining venue, serves buffet breakfasts and à la carte meals, with themed evenings highlighting regional and international cuisines. The culinary program also emphasizes using locally sourced ingredients, supporting area producers and communities.

The spa at Velaa, operated in partnership with My Blend by Clarins, offers a range of treatments that combine modern techniques with traditional wellness practices. Facilities include a snow room, Cloud 9 relaxation pods, and various fitness options such as yoga and strength training. “The hotel is a beautifully maintained jungle, the sand is white and fine, the restaurants were unique, the service was impeccable,” a guest recently observed, reflecting the overall balance between relaxation and activity.

Environmental Focus and Future Direction

Velaa Private Island has invested in environmental initiatives, including one of the Maldives’ most significant coral restoration projects. The program, managed by in-house marine biologists, uses Biorock technology to support coral growth and resilience. Guests are invited to participate in conservation activities, such as adopting coral lines and joining educational snorkeling tours.

The Fehikuramaa initiative extends the resort’s environmental efforts to the wider Noonu Atoll community, focusing on waste management, pollution reduction, and access to clean water. The program also provides swimming instruction and environmental education for local children. “Fehikuramaa in Dhivehi language broadly means ‘Let’s make the environment greener,’ and that’s precisely what we hope to achieve,” says Wayne Milgate, General Manager of Velaa Private Island.

Receiving a 2025 Global Recognition Award highlights Velaa Private Island’s balanced approach to hospitality and sustainability. The resort continues to develop seasonal programming, from live music events to themed children’s activities, ensuring that returning guests find something new with each visit. For travelers seeking a thoughtful and well-rounded luxury experience, Velaa Private Island offers a destination that values both guest comfort and environmental responsibility.