It has taken its time getting there, but Aman is finally coming to the Maldives.
The hotel group has revealed that its first property in the archipelago will be called Amanolu, a 52-key retreat taking shape amid the turquoise lagoons and white-sand beaches of Vaavu Atoll. Opening is now slated for 2028.
The name combines “Aman”, the Sanskrit word for peace, with “Olu”, inspired by the water lily found throughout the Indian Ocean. It is a suitably serene moniker choice for a resort being developed in one of the Maldives’ more secluded corners.
Longtime Aman collaborator Kerry Hill Architects is behind the design. The studio has taken cues from the surrounding coralline beaches, lagoons and low-slung island landscape, favouring simplicity and restraint over anything too showy. Indoor and outdoor spaces will flow into one another, keeping the ocean and tropical surroundings firmly in view.
That relationship with the landscape will be even more pronounced at Amanolu’s 16 branded residences.
Each five-bedroom home will occupy an island of its own, taking the Maldives’ reputation for privacy to extravagant lengths. Some will be oriented towards either sunrise or sunset, while others will stretch from coast to coast, with beaches on both sides and views that change with the light throughout the day.
Inside, generous living spaces will spill outdoors towards private beaches. Each residence will also come with a 25-metre swimming pool and its own berth, as well as dedicated staff accommodation to keep service close at hand without compromising the sense of seclusion.
Hotel guests will have plenty of space to roam as well.
Rather than concentrating everything on a single island, Amanolu will spread some of its main attractions across the surrounding waters. A dedicated wellness island will be home to an expansive Aman Spa and the brand’s signature Spa Houses, creating a retreat within the retreat for longer treatments and wellness programmes.
Another island will focus on activity and exploration, with diving, snorkelling, watersports and marine adventures making the most of Vaavu Atoll’s clear waters. Dining venues, including concepts drawn from Aman’s international culinary portfolio, will be joined by family facilities and spaces for gathering.
Amanolu will be Aman’s first address in the Maldives, nearly four decades after the brand began with Amanpuri in Phuket in 1988. Since then, its collection has grown to 36 hotels, resorts and branded residences around the world.
Aman is, of course, beloved by Remote Lands clients and is a close partner. And Amanolu will be a key part of one of the latest Aman Jet Experiences. From Islands to Ancient Worlds 2028 will take place in October 2028 and encompass The Maldives as well as seven other exceptional destinations.