Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives has been recognized with a prestigious accolade in the international tourism industry, having been named the Maldives’ Leading Dive Resort 2025 by the World Travel Awards (WTA). This newly introduced category marks a remarkable achievement for the resort, which has become the first recipient of this national title. The award was announced at a high-profile gala ceremony held on 29 June 2025 in Tanzania, attended by influential leaders and stakeholders in tourism and hospitality from across Africa and the Indian Ocean region.
This recognition reinforces the Maldives’ prominent standing as a global destination for underwater exploration and supports the government’s ongoing strategy to position the country as a premium destination for marine-based tourism. The Ministry of Tourism has placed significant emphasis on promoting sustainable tourism models and improving access to world-class experiences beyond traditional luxury offerings. Recognitions such as this underscore the success of those initiatives and reflect positively on the quality of services provided by tourism establishments operating under national standards.
Located in the South Malé Atoll, just a 40-45 minute boat ride from Velana International Airport, Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives offers exceptional diving access in a setting of white sandy beaches, lush coconut palms, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The resort is home to some of the Maldives’ most spectacular and accessible dive sites, including Kandooma Thila, a vibrant reef and cleaning station for grey reef sharks; Guraidhoo Corner, known for strong currents and pelagic species; and Medhu Faru, where colorful coral walls attract a diverse array of marine life.
General Manager Mark Eletr expressed pride in the recognition, highlighting the resort’s rich natural surroundings. “We’re surrounded by some of the most awe-inspiring marine life in the Maldives – it’s truly like diving in a living aquarium,” he said. The marine ecosystem here hosts manta rays, reef sharks, turtles, moray eels, and schools of tropical fish, offering divers an unforgettable experience.
What sets Kandooma apart is its unique ‘Dive Free’ initiative, an inclusive program that makes professional diving more accessible. Certified divers staying three nights or more at the resort are eligible for two complimentary boat dives per day. This includes full equipment and the guidance of experienced PADI-certified instructors. “Diving can be an expensive pursuit, so we decided to flip the script,” Eletr added. “Our ‘Dive Free’ program removes the barriers and makes the underwater magic of the Maldives accessible to more people than ever.”
The resort’s fully equipped 5-star PADI dive centre offers a full range of services from beginner courses and specialty certifications to private excursions, night dives, and even wreck diving for advanced divers and underwater photographers. By offering such a comprehensive dive program, Kandooma plays a vital role in enhancing the Maldives’ marine tourism appeal to both first-time visitors and seasoned diving enthusiasts.
In line with national priorities on sustainability, Kandooma also places strong emphasis on marine conservation and responsible tourism. These efforts are closely aligned with government initiatives aimed at preserving the Maldives’ fragile marine ecosystems while creating meaningful economic opportunities for local communities through ecotourism and adventure travel.
Beyond diving, Kandooma offers an immersive island experience. The accommodation options include Garden and Beach Villas, two-storey Beach Houses, and popular Overwater Villas. For families, there are 2- and 3-bedroom villas, and the Kandoo Kids’ Club provides engaging activities for younger guests. Culinary needs are met through six food and beverage outlets offering diverse menus that showcase local and international flavors. Guests looking for relaxation can unwind on hammocks or enjoy wellness treatments at the Kandooma Spa by COMO Shambhala, known for its tranquil atmosphere and rejuvenating therapies.
The World Travel Awards, established in 1993, serve to recognize and celebrate excellence across all areas of the travel and tourism industry. The WTA brand is internationally recognized as a hallmark of quality, with winners representing the highest standard of service and innovation in the industry. More information on the awards can be found at www.worldtravelawards.com.
The government of Maldives continues to support such achievements as part of its long-term vision to enhance visitor experiences, promote niche tourism markets, and ensure sustainable practices. Awards like these not only affirm the quality of Maldivian hospitality but also strengthen the country’s global reputation as a premier destination for eco-conscious and experience-driven travelers.
For more details or to book a diving getaway at Kandooma, visit: www.maldives.holidayinnresorts.com.
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