Hulhule Island Hotel celebrates 25 years as Maldives’ gateway hotel
Hulhule Island Hotel is marking its 25th anniversary, celebrating a remarkable journey defined by heartfelt hospitality, enduring partnerships and the dedication of generations of team members who have shaped the hotel’s legacy.
Officially opened on 15 August 2001 with 85 rooms, Hulhule Island Hotel began its journey as the first transit hotel at the Maldives’ main international airport. In 2008, the property expanded with the addition of 51 rooms, increasing its inventory to 136 and introducing enhanced accommodation features for a growing range of international, domestic and corporate travellers.
Over the past 25 years, Hulhule Island Hotel has evolved beyond the traditional concept of an airport hotel. Strategically located only minutes from Velana International Airport, the property has become an important gateway to the Maldives, welcoming guests at the beginning and end of their journeys while also serving as a trusted venue for business meetings, conferences, celebrations and community events.
Today, the Maldives’ only airport-island resort combines convenience with the character of an island retreat. Its offering includes 136 well-appointed rooms, a private beach, diverse dining experiences, wellness and recreational facilities, and versatile meeting and event spaces. From the panoramic setting and award-winning cuisine of Uduvilaa to the relaxed atmosphere of Faru Coffee House, the Poolside and Champs, the hotel continues to create experiences for travellers, residents and the wider Maldivian community.
Hulhule Island Hotel’s commitment to excellence has earned extensive recognition at both regional and international levels. In 2025, the hotel was named World’s Leading Airport Resort at the World Travel Awards for the 14th consecutive year, extending an uninterrupted winning streak dating back to 2012. It was also awarded the Gold Award for South Asia’s Leading Airport Hotel at the South Asian Travel Awards 2025, alongside numerous culinary honours achieved by its talented team over the years.
“Twenty-five years is more than an anniversary; it is the story of the people who built Hulhule Island Hotel and the guests, partners and communities who placed their trust in us,” said Ali Shakir, Group General Manager of Maldives Inflight Catering Group. “For many travellers, the hotel represents their first welcome to the Maldives and their final farewell before departure. We carry that responsibility with immense pride. As we honour our legacy, we also look ahead with renewed ambition to strengthen our experiences, invest in our people and continue setting benchmarks for hospitality.”
Reflecting on the milestone, Hawwa Fareesha, Hotel Manager of Hulhule Island Hotel, said, “This anniversary belongs to every team member who has contributed to the hotel’s journey over the past 25 years. Their passion, resilience and commitment have created the warmth and sense of connection for which Hulhule Island Hotel is known. We celebrate this milestone with gratitude and look forward to welcoming every guest with the same genuine care that has defined us since the beginning.”
The anniversary also recognises the invaluable support of the hotel’s guests, business partners, suppliers, stakeholders and the local community. Their continued confidence has enabled Hulhule Island Hotel to grow, evolve and remain a distinctive part of the Maldivian hospitality landscape.
As Hulhule Island Hotel enters its next chapter, it remains committed to thoughtful innovation, service excellence, talent development and creating meaningful experiences. Guided by 25 years of knowledge and strengthened by the people behind its success, the hotel looks forward to building upon its legacy as the gateway where every Maldivian journey begins.
