Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa
A Raa Atoll island run all-inclusive at a scale most Maldivian resorts avoid.
Faarufushi lies in Raa Atoll in the northern Maldives, reached by seaplane or by domestic flight and speedboat. One resort occupies the island, which is long and narrow with a lagoon on one side and reef on the other. Raa is quieter than the central atolls and the reefs here carry less traffic, which is the property's principal geographic argument.
Around 120 villas, beach and overwater, are run on a full all-inclusive basis — food, drink, most excursions and the water sports included, which is unusual at this level in the Maldives and shapes who comes. There is a spa, a dive centre and a children's club. The property is Italian-owned and its restaurants reflect that more than most Maldivian resorts do.
All-inclusive at 120 villas. Very few Maldivian properties of this size attempt it, because the arithmetic is difficult; this one has built the whole product around it.
Raa rather than the central atolls. Fewer resorts, less boat traffic and reefs that recover between visitors.
Who it is not for
Faarufushi is wrong for guests seeking a small or exclusive island — 120 villas and an all-inclusive model make it a busy resort. It is wrong for travellers wanting à la carte fine dining, which is not the format. And it is wrong for those expecting the design-led restraint of its neighbours. Those wanting small in Raa should look at The Nautilus or JOALI.
Sources
- Open sources — around 120 villas, Raa Atoll, full all-inclusive
- Villa count, ownership and inclusions unverified. Confirm before publication.
Booking
Private Island Resorts arranges each stay on request, quoting the rates available for the island and dates. No benefit should be assumed unless it is confirmed in writing for the individual reservation.
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