Universal Resorts Secures Prestigious Wins at World Travel Awards 2024

Universal Resorts has once again proven its excellence in luxury hospitality, with three of its eight properties earning top accolades at the World Travel Awards 2024. This recognition further cements the Maldives’ reputation as a premier travel destination, celebrated for its pristine beauty, world-class service, and innovative tourism practices.

Awards Recognizing Excellence

The 31st annual World Travel Awards, held on November 24 in Funchal, Madeira, highlighted the exceptional offerings of Universal Resorts. Among the winners were:

  • Huvafen Fushi Maldives: Maldives Leading Boutique Resort 2024
  • Baros Maldives: Maldives Leading Water Villa Resort 2024
  • Kurumba Maldives: Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Resort 2024

These accolades spotlight each resort’s unique ability to cater to a diverse range of travelers, from honeymooners to families.

Additional Nominations

Baros Maldives led the nominations, contending for prestigious titles like Indian Ocean’s Most Romantic Resort and Maldives Leading Resort. Huvafen Fushi and Kurumba also secured nominations in highly competitive categories, underscoring Universal Resorts’ dedication to delivering unmatched luxury and experiences.

Pioneering Maldivian Hospitality

Universal Resorts’ journey began in 1972 with Kurumba, the Maldives' first resort, paving the way for luxury tourism in the region. Over five decades later, the group continues to set benchmarks in hospitality, blending innovation with Maldivian charm.

Huvafen Fushi: A Haven of Intimacy

Huvafen Fushi redefines luxury with private plunge pools in every villa, the world’s first underwater spa, and personalized butler service. Its recent reopening after extensive renovations showcases exclusive partnerships with top-tier beauty brands, elevating the guest experience further.

Baros Maldives: A Diver’s Paradise

Known for its exceptional diving opportunities, Baros is a sanctuary for those seeking tranquility and adventure. Its overwater villas, private pools, and bespoke dining experiences make it a favorite among discerning travelers.

Kurumba Maldives: Family Fun Meets Luxury

Kurumba blends luxury with vibrant energy, offering pristine beaches, a certified kids’ club, and unique cultural experiences. It also serves as a premier destination for business events, providing versatile spaces for meetings and conferences.

Maldives: A Global Leader in Tourism

The Maldives continues to shine on the global stage, winning World’s Leading Destination for the fifth consecutive year. Its dedication to sustainability was also recognized, with the country being named the World’s Leading Green Destination 2024. These accolades reflect the Maldives’ commitment to eco-conscious tourism while maintaining its reputation as a luxury travel haven.

Universal Resorts’ Chief Operating Officer, Visha Mahir, emphasized the group’s mission to redefine luxury travel. “These awards are a testament to our unwavering dedication to crafting extraordinary experiences. The Maldives’ breathtaking beauty sets the perfect backdrop for our innovative approach to hospitality,” she stated.

The success at the World Travel Awards follows Universal Resorts’ achievements at the Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards 2024, where properties like Huvafen Fushi, Milaidhoo, and Baros ranked among the top resorts in the Indian Ocean. As Universal Resorts moves forward, its commitment to providing unique and personalized experiences remains steadfast. Whether through luxurious renovations, eco-friendly initiatives, or groundbreaking partnerships, Universal Resorts continues to lead the way in shaping the future of Maldivian tourism.

Resort in Maldives

Crossroads Maldives JOALI BEING Siyam World Maldives Kuramathi Maldives OZEN RESERVE Bolifushi Raffles Maldives Meradhoo Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives Kurumba Maldives Milaidhoo Maldives Soneva Fushi Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives Meeru Maldives Resort Island Sun Siyam Iru Veli Maldives Noku Maldives Sun Siyam Vilu Reef Maldives Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru Baglioni Maldives Dusit Thani Maldives Jawakara Islands Maldives Ayada Maldives Kandima Maldives OBLU NATURE Helengeli OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi Coco Bodu Hithi Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu Maldives OUTRIGGER Maldives Maafushivaru OZEN LIFE Maadhoo Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa The Nautilus Maldives Alila Kothaifaru Maldives RAAYA by Atmosphere Taj Exotica Resort & Spa Maldives Ananea Madivaru Maldives Emerald Maldives Resort & Spa Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives JA Manafaru Maldives Kuredhivaru Resort and Spa OBLU SELECT Sangeli Brennia Kottefaru ROBINSON Maldives Six Senses Laamu Soneva Jani dusitD2 Feydhoo Maldives NOOE Maldives Kunaavashi Oaga Art Resort Sandies Bathala Maldives Soneva Secret Sun Siyam Olhuveli Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives The Residence Maldives Dhigurah JOALI Maldives Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa Taj Coral Reef Resort & Spa Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas Fiyavalhu Resort Maldives Gili Lankanfushi Maldives Nova Maldives Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives VARU by Atmosphere Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives Kandolhu Maldives Niyama Private Islands Maldives SO/ Maldives Club Med Kanifinolhu Cocoon Maldives JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort Six Senses Kanuhura The Residence Maldives Falhumaafushi Centara Grand Lagoon Maldives Constance Moofushi Maldives Pulse Hotels & Resorts Radisson Blu Resort Maldives Atmosphere Core Atmosphere Kani Fushi Maldives Coconut Palm Conservation Constant Halaveli Maldives Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa Kaani Hotels Kandima Resort LUX* South Ari Atoll Le Meridien Maldives Resort and Spa Lily Beach Resort & Spa Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort Taj Exotica careers