A new era has officially dawned for one of the South Malé Atoll’s most beloved island retreats. After 17 years operating under the Holiday Inn brand, the resort has shed its former identity, stepping forward today as simply Kandooma Maldives. This rebrand marks a strategic shift toward an experience-led, all-inclusive concept designed to elevate the traditional family holiday.
While the resort retains its familiar island charm and dedicated staff, the transformation goes beyond the name on the door. Guests arriving under the new banner will find a refreshed product, characterized by significant enhancements to the resort’s villa portfolio. To better accommodate families and multi-generational groups, the island has introduced eight new Family Beach Pool Villas—complete with private splash pools and dedicated children’s sleeping areas—alongside upgraded two-bedroom Beach Houses and spacious three-bedroom Pool Villas.
At the core of the new Kandooma experience is an innovative “experience-led” all-inclusive model. Moving away from the standard definition of a meal plan, the resort is now bundling activities directly into the guest stay. For travelers booking four nights or more, the package includes unique Maldivian experiences such as sunset splash cruises, sunrise fishing, guided reef snorkeling, and spa treatments.
For the active traveler, the resort’s “Dive Free” program is a standout feature. Certified divers can now enjoy one complimentary guided dive per day, with boat transfers and standard equipment provided, allowing guests to explore the rich marine life of the South Malé Atoll without the worry of fluctuating costs.
General Manager Andrew Drummond emphasized that the change is about removing friction from the holiday experience. “A family shouldn’t spend its holiday constantly deciding what something costs or whether to add another experience,” said Drummond. “We want them out on the water, trying something new, or simply slowing down at the spa. This new chapter gives us the freedom to put that energy at the center of everything we do.”
To organize these offerings, the resort has introduced the “Kandooma Signatures”—five pillars of guest engagement: Kandooma Blue (water activities), Kandooma Table (elevated dining), Kandooma Flow (wellness and relaxation), Kandooma Social (community events), and Kandooma Ways (cultural discovery).
Despite the luxury upgrades, the resort remains firmly family-focused. The “Kids Stay and Eat Free” policy continues, and the Kandoo Kids’ Club offers supervised programming from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. From PADI Bubblemaker courses for junior adventurers to the upcoming unveiling of a new Beach Club, the resort is positioning itself as a destination where every generation can find its own rhythm.
Located just 45 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the 146-villa resort is now open for bookings under its new identity, promising a more seamless and enriched Maldivian getaway.
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