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. 

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." 

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.

As Alila 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.