Alila Kothaifaru Maldives has been honoured with the Best Resort of the Year award at the 2026 AHA Asia Hotel Awards, held at the prestigious Capella Bangkok in Thailand. The recognition places the luxury island retreat among distinguished hospitality properties across Asia and celebrates its approach to luxury, where thoughtful design, genuine hospitality and a close connection to the natural surroundings define the guest experience.

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Presented during the 15th edition of the awards, the ceremony marked an important milestone for the hospitality industry. Established in 2010 by LIFESTYLE Magazine as the CHA China Hotel Awards, the programme expanded its reach in 2026 to become the AHA Asia Hotel Awards, bringing together leading hotels and resorts from across the region. Hosting the gala in Bangkok for the first time reflected its broader ambition to recognise excellence beyond China and celebrate the diversity of Asian hospitality.

The evening welcomed hospitality leaders and industry representatives to Capella Bangkok for a celebration of outstanding achievements in luxury accommodation, resort experiences, design, wellness and service. Against this distinguished regional backdrop, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives was recognised in the Best Resort of the Year category, a proud moment for the resort and its team.

"To receive this recognition alongside some of Asia's most respected hospitality names is a proud moment for all of us at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives," said Thomas Weber, General Manager. "Our island has its own character, and we have always believed that the most meaningful experiences come from allowing guests to discover it at their own pace. This award belongs to our team, whose care, dedication and genuine warmth bring that philosophy to life every day. We are equally grateful to our guests for choosing to share their time and special moments with us."

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Set within the unspoilt surroundings of Raa Atoll, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives is home to 41 beachfront villas, 36 overwater villas, three 2-bedroom beach villas, and the exclusive Boduge Residence, each featuring a private pool and thoughtfully designed to offer privacy while maintaining a close connection to the island’s tropical landscape and surrounding Indian Ocean. Contemporary architecture sits quietly among the natural surroundings, creating an understated retreat where guests can enjoy the Maldives in their own way.

Beyond the villas, the resort encourages discovery through experiences closely connected to its location. Guests can explore the vibrant house reef with the resort's marine experts, encounter the rich underwater life of Raa Atoll, or discover Maldivian traditions through cultural activities. Dining is equally rooted in the experience of place, from fresh seafood and distinctive international cuisine to private celebrations on The Shack, the resort's secluded sand cay. At Spa Alila, restorative treatments and wellness rituals offer another opportunity to slow down and reconnect with the island's natural rhythm.

"An award such as this reflects the dedication of many people working together, often through the smallest details that guests may never see," said Jamal Ahmed, Resort Manager. "We take great pride in creating an atmosphere where service feels personal and unforced, and where every guest feels genuinely welcomed. It is especially rewarding to see the efforts of our colleagues recognised on a regional stage."

The latest accolade adds to a rewarding year for Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, which also received the 2026 TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Award, placing it among the top 10% of hotels worldwide based on traveller reviews and ratings. Together, these honours reflect recognition from both the hospitality industry and the guests who have experienced the island firsthand.

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As Aila Kothaifaru Maldives celebrates this achievement, the resort remains committed to the qualities that shape its identity: a genuine sense of place, warm and intuitive service, and experiences that allow guests to appreciate the extraordinary beauty of the Maldives.

To discover Alila Kothaifaru Maldives and plan an island escape, visit alilakothaifarumaldives.com.