Riu Palace Maldives

Riu Palace Maldives offers a luxurious all-inclusive experience on the pristine island of Kedhigandu in the Dhaalu Atoll. Part of the renowned Spanish hotel chain RIU Hotels & Resorts, this elegant 5-star property brings the brand’s signature hospitality to the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives. With stunning overwater and beachfront villas, exceptional dining options, and a wealth of leisure activities, Riu Palace Maldives provides a refined yet relaxed atmosphere for discerning travellers seeking the perfect island getaway.

Opened in 2019, the resort blends contemporary design with traditional Maldivian elements, creating elegant spaces that frame the natural beauty surrounding them. The resort operates on an all-inclusive basis, allowing guests to truly unwind without worrying about additional costs, while maintaining the high standards of luxury and service that the Riu Palace brand is known for worldwide.

Location

Riu Palace Maldives is situated on the private island of Kedhigandu in the Dhaalu Atoll, approximately 180 kilometres southwest of Malé. The resort is accessible via a 40-minute scenic seaplane journey from Velana International Airport, offering guests breathtaking aerial views of the Maldivian archipelago during the transfer.

The resort shares facilities with its sister property, Riu Atoll, located on the adjacent island of Maafushi, which is connected by a walkway. This unique arrangement provides guests with access to a wider range of dining, entertainment and activity options spanning both islands, while Riu Palace maintains its exclusive atmosphere and premium services.

The Dhaalu Atoll is known for its vibrant marine life and pristine coral reefs, making it an excellent destination for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. The crystal-clear waters surrounding the resort teem with tropical fish, reef sharks, manta rays, and even the occasional whale shark, creating an underwater paradise for exploration.

Accommodation

Riu Palace Maldives offers 176 villas designed with a harmonious blend of modern elegance and Maldivian influences. All accommodations feature private terraces or balconies, air conditioning, ceiling fans, satellite TV, and coffee facilities.

Junior Suites

Set amidst the lush tropical gardens of the island, these spacious 50 m² suites feature a bedroom with sitting area, bathroom with shower, and a private balcony or terrace. The interiors showcase clean lines, natural materials, and a soothing palette of whites and blues that reflect the surrounding seascape.

Beach Suites

Located steps from the powdery white sand, these 64 m² suites offer direct beach access and stunning ocean views. Each suite includes a bedroom with sitting area, luxurious bathroom with hydromassage bathtub, and a private terrace with sun loungers, creating a perfect personal sanctuary by the sea.

Overwater Suites

The iconic 94 m² overwater suites are perched above the turquoise lagoon, offering direct access to the ocean. Each suite features a spacious bedroom, separate sitting area, luxurious bathroom, and a private terrace with sun loungers. Some suites also include a plunge pool, providing the ultimate in Maldivian luxury.

Overwater Suite Jacuzzi

The most exclusive accommodation category, these 94 m² overwater suites feature all the amenities of the standard overwater suites plus a private jacuzzi on the terrace, offering a perfect spot to relax while enjoying panoramic ocean views.

Dining

As an all-inclusive resort, Riu Palace Maldives offers a diverse range of dining options across its own facilities and those at the adjacent Riu Atoll:

• Sofia – The main restaurant serving international buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner with live cooking stations, themed nights, and a variety of cuisines.
• Krystal – A fusion restaurant offering an à la carte dinner experience with innovative dishes combining global flavours.
• Yu Hi – Specialized in Japanese cuisine, offering sushi, teppanyaki, and other Asian delicacies.
• Palm – A steakhouse serving premium cuts and grilled specialties in an elegant setting.
• Beef Steak House – Located at Riu Atoll, offering grilled meats and accompaniments.
• Dhoni – At Riu Atoll, serving Italian cuisine with a focus on pasta and pizza.
• Boduberu – The main buffet restaurant at Riu Atoll, offering international cuisine.

For drinks and lighter fare, the resort features several bars:

• Spirits – The main lounge bar serving premium drinks, cocktails, and snacks throughout the day.
• Tequila – A relaxed pool bar offering refreshing beverages while you soak up the sun.
• Petit Bar – Located at Riu Atoll, serving drinks and small bites.
• Sunshine – The pool bar at Riu Atoll for daytime refreshments.

The all-inclusive concept at Riu Palace Maldives is particularly comprehensive, including all meals, snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and even a regularly restocked minibar in your villa.

Facilities and Activities

Renova Spa

The resort’s spa offers a range of treatments and therapies inspired by international and traditional Maldivian techniques. With overwater treatment rooms providing panoramic ocean views, guests can indulge in massages, facials, body treatments, and beauty services in a truly tranquil setting.

Pools and Beaches

Riu Palace Maldives features an infinity pool with a swim-up bar overlooking the ocean, as well as access to the pristine white-sand beaches that encircle the island. Sun loungers, parasols, and beach towels are provided complimentary as part of the all-inclusive service.

Water Activities

The resort offers a variety of water sports and activities:

• Snorkelling on the vibrant house reef
• Diving with the fully-equipped PADI dive centre
• Kayaking and paddleboarding
• Windsurfing and sailing
• Jet skiing and wakeboarding (additional charge)
• Catamaran excursions and fishing trips

Fitness and Recreation

Guests have access to a modern fitness centre equipped with cardio and strength-training machines, as well as daily activities like yoga, aqua aerobics, and beach volleyball. Group fitness classes are included in the all-inclusive package.

Entertainment

The resort offers daily entertainment programs including live music, cultural performances, and themed events. In the evenings, guests can enjoy shows, DJ sessions, and other entertainment at both Riu Palace and the adjacent Riu Atoll.

Best Time to Visit

Like most of the Maldives resorts, Riu Palace experiences two distinct seasons. The dry season from November to April offers the best time to visit the Maldives, with sunny days, clear skies, and excellent visibility for snorkelling and diving. This period, particularly December to March, is considered the peak season.

The wet season from May to October brings occasional rain showers and higher humidity, but still plenty of sunshine between showers. This period often offers more competitive rates and fewer crowds. The Maldives weather remains warm year-round, with temperatures typically ranging from 26°C to 32°C.

For UK travellers planning their visit, it’s worth noting the time difference is +5 hours from GMT during the UK winter and +4 hours during British Summer Time. Check what time is it in the Maldives when planning your trip.

Why Choose Riu Palace Maldives

Riu Palace Maldives stands out among luxury resorts in the Maldives for several compelling reasons:

• True All-Inclusive Experience – One of the few genuine all-inclusive luxury resorts in the Maldives, offering excellent value with premium drinks and dining included
• Two-Island Concept – Access to facilities at both Riu Palace and Riu Atoll provides greater variety of dining and activities
• Adults-Focused Atmosphere – While children are welcome, the resort caters primarily to couples and adult groups seeking a sophisticated experience
• Recognized Brand – Part of the internationally renowned RIU Hotels & Resorts chain, ensuring consistent quality standards
• Modern Luxury – Contemporary design and amenities that appeal to travellers seeking a fresh, stylish approach to Maldivian luxury

For travellers seeking a premium all-inclusive experience in the Maldives, Riu Palace delivers elegant accommodation, diverse dining options, and a wealth of activities, all wrapped in the unmistakable beauty of the Maldivian islands. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a luxurious escape, guests will find Riu Palace Maldives offers a compelling blend of international standards and authentic island charm.