For decades, the Maldives has been known for its dreamy overwater villas, clear blue lagoons, and the promise of total relaxation. This image still attracts many visitors, but now the country is moving into a new and more ambitious phase.

The Maldives has always been a favorite destination for wealthy travelers, but now the types of new projects are changing. Well-known brands like Bvlgari, Nobu, Aman, Atlantis, and Trump have plans for new developments. Branded residences are starting to appear on remote atolls that once had only reefs and sand. Traveling there is also simpler now, thanks to a new major international airport that just opened in the north.

In 2025, the Maldives saw a record 2.3 million visitors. China, Russia, the United Kingdom, Italy, and Germany are still the main source markets. Indian visitor numbers, which dropped after a diplomatic dispute in 2024, have mostly bounced back. Private jets are also making an impact, with Maafaru International Airport in Noonu Atoll now serving as a key entry point for guests who often skip Velana International Airport in Malé.

Overwater villas are still the Maldives’ signature offering, but now they share the spotlight with underwater restaurants, superyacht docks, beach clubs, and massive villas available for purchase. The country is evolving, and the coming years will reveal how much the Maldives can expand its original luxury appeal.

New Resorts Expected In 2026

Bulgari Resort Ranfushi

Bulgari Resort Ranfushi has been under development since 2022 and is still one of the most anticipated new resorts in the Maldives. Located on Raa Atoll, about 45 minutes by seaplane from Malé, the resort matches the high-end style and price you would expect from the Italian jewelry brand, which already has hotels in Milan, Dubai, and Bali.

The resort will offer 54 villas, including 33 beach villas, 20 overwater villas, and a standalone Bulgari Villa on its own private island. The opening was first planned for 2025 but was pushed to 2026 after some design changes. Dining is a big highlight here. Three-Michelin-starred chef Niko Romito will lead Il Ristorante. Bao Li Xuan will introduce a version of its two-Michelin-starred Chinese restaurant from Bulgari Hotel Shanghai, and Hoseki will serve Japanese cuisine.

Mandarin Oriental Bolidhuffaru Reef Resort

Mandarin Oriental Bolidhuffaru Reef Resort covers a large space across three private islands on Bolidhuffaru Reef in South Malé Atoll. It is just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, which is unusually convenient for a resort of this size.

The resort will offer 120 villas, from one to four bedrooms, set on the beach and over the water. The spa complex, said to be one of the largest in the Indian Ocean with 12 suites, is almost finished so the opening date may be earlier than planned as construction continues at a rapid pace.

Many resorts in the Maldives are made for guests who want total privacy. Mondrian Maldives, though, is going for a livelier, more social atmosphere. Ennismore’s hotels focus on stylish design and offer bars, restaurants, and public spaces where people enjoy spending time together.

The resort in Noonu Atoll will have 72 over water pool villas, 30 beach pool villas, and three-bedroom residences, each with its own private plunge pool. The big question is whether Mondrian’s social approach will fit in a place known for its focus on privacy.

Meliá Whale Lagoon Maldives

The Spanish hotel group Meliá is opening its first resort in the Maldives, called Whale Lagoon, in Ari Atoll. The resort features 100 villas, including water villas, beach villas, and sunset suites. Guests can also enjoy four restaurants, a spa, and two infinity pools.

This is a full-service resort from a company experienced in running large properties. The location is important too. Ari Atoll is one of the best places in the Maldives for whale shark diving, so........

© Forbes