In a destination as densely populated with resorts as the Maldives, it can be difficult to stand out from the crowd. JOALI Maldives has found a way to do exactly that though, and the solution lies in two niche concepts: immersive art and female empowerment.
Nestled in a dreamscape of glittering lagoons, blindingly white sands and lush palms on the island of Muravandhoo, in the unspoilt Raa Atoll, the brand offers two spectacular islands (JOALI + JOALI BEING) with two varying personalities. A wonderland of creativity, indulgence and adventure, the essence of the JOALI brand is that each and every guest celebrates life in all its vibrant splendour while scripting their own JOALI story.
Owned by one of Turkey’s most prominent and esteemed businesswomen, Esin Gural Argat, JOALI – which first opened in 2018 - was the first and only immersive art resort in the destination. Female owned, the resort also focuses on catering to female staff and guests, giving the sustainable property and innovative edge.
From training local girls, to hiring local women, and ensuring the team is structured in a way that enables female team members to progress and develop their careers, the focus on empowering women runs deep.
It is also reflected in the property’s sensual, feminine design, which features nature-inspired touches such as ceiling fans that resemble flowers, spacious dressing rooms, deep, free-standing bathtubs, and stylish in-villa kaftans adorned with the birds and plants seen on the island.
Conceived by design studio Autoban and Tokyo-based architects Studio Glitt, the aesthetic pays homage to traditional Maldivian crafts juxtaposed with slick, futuristic touches. The overall effect is stylish, worldly and charismatic.
This vibe transcends the villas and permeates the entire island, with nature-inspired design and artworks dotted all around, all with messages of sustainability and Maldivian nature at their core.
From the manta-ray-shaped treehouse guests can dine in, to the sculptural chairs placed throughout the grounds, to the artworks curated on the ocean floor, to the onsite artist who offers guests classes like pottery and painting, the vision of the brand was dreamt and breathed life into by a collaborative effort of world-renowned artists, local artists and local artisans.
Opened in November, JOALI’S new sister property JOALI BEING is an immersive wellness retreat. Also an adults-only resort, the experience begins with a pre-arrival wellbeing consultation and an integrative wellbeing assessment, which help staff create a personalised journey that includes workouts, spa treatments, classes and healthful meals.
