One of the Maldives’ most recognised island resorts is preparing to enter a new phase of development, with the management agreement between Hotel Properties Limited (HPL) and InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) scheduled to conclude on 30 September 2026.
From 1 October 2026, the property will operate as Kandooma Maldives under the management of HPL Hotels & Resorts, a subsidiary of Hotel Properties Limited. The resort will become the 13th property within the HPL Hotels & Resorts portfolio and the group’s second destination in the Maldives, joining the internationally acclaimed Gili Lankanfushi Maldives.
The transition follows several years of operation as Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives and reflects HPL’s long-term plans to strengthen the property’s identity, enhance its guest experience and further develop its position in the international hospitality market. The resort will continue to preserve the welcoming island character and relaxed atmosphere that have made it a popular destination among families, diving enthusiasts, surfers and repeat visitors from around the world.
Located within convenient reach of Velana International Airport, Kandooma is known for its tropical surroundings, expansive beaches, clear lagoon and easy access to some of the Maldives’ most celebrated marine environments. The island has established a strong international following by offering a combination of family-oriented facilities, water-based activities, surfing opportunities, diving experiences and genuine Maldivian hospitality.
The property’s location provides access to renowned surf breaks and rich underwater sites, making it especially attractive to travellers seeking active island holidays alongside opportunities for relaxation. Its spacious natural environment, family-friendly atmosphere and broad range of accommodation options have also contributed to its position as a preferred choice for couples, groups and multigenerational travellers.
Supporting the transition is the “Kandooma Next Chapter” enhancement programme, a carefully planned series of improvements that will introduce refreshed all-villa accommodation, upgraded guest facilities and new experiences across the island. The programme has been structured to improve the overall quality, comfort and diversity of the resort experience while preserving the distinctive qualities that guests have long associated with Kandooma.
The enhancement works will be carried out in phases, enabling the resort to remain operational and continue welcoming guests throughout the transition period. The phased approach has been designed to minimise disruption and ensure that visitors can continue enjoying the peaceful and relaxed island holiday experience for which the resort is recognised.
As part of the planned improvements, the resort’s accommodation inventory will be adjusted from 154 villas to 146 villas. The revised inventory will create opportunities to introduce larger accommodation categories, improve villa layouts, enhance guest facilities and offer more spacious and comfortable options for families, couples and groups.
Returning General Manager Andrew Drummond has been appointed to lead the transition and oversee the resort’s future development. Drummond previously managed the property and has a long-standing association with Kandooma, providing him with a strong understanding of the island, its operations and the expectations of its loyal international guests.
Drummond said Kandooma has always maintained a strong identity and a dedicated following, adding that the changes under way have been carefully considered to strengthen the qualities guests already appreciate while introducing new elements that will support the resort’s appeal for many years.
He emphasised that guest comfort and satisfaction would remain the resort’s highest priorities throughout the transition. According to Drummond, the enhancement programme has been developed around the complete guest journey, with work scheduled in stages and carefully coordinated around resort operations, quiet areas and guest spaces to ensure that holiday experiences remain enjoyable and uninterrupted.
Guests will continue to experience the warm hospitality, genuine service and memorable island experiences that have become closely associated with Kandooma. The resort’s established strengths as a family, surfing and diving destination will remain central to its future positioning and identity.
The new Kandooma Maldives brand will draw inspiration from the island’s natural environment, sociable character and close relationship with the ocean. Its future guest experience is expected to celebrate the activities, surroundings and personal connections that have defined the resort while presenting them through a refreshed and contemporary hospitality concept.
Further details about the Kandooma Maldives brand, accommodation enhancements, upgraded facilities and new guest experiences will be announced in the months leading up to its official launch on 1 October 2026. Until then, the resort will continue operating normally and welcoming travellers from across the world as it prepares for the next stage of its development.
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