Eid Al Fitr is coming soon, with UAE public holidays likely to start on Tuesday April 9. That means it’s time to pencil in some travel.

If you want to keep flights short – and holidays about as relaxing as they come – why not look at an Eid Al Fitr Maldives getaway?

So pack those flip-flops and that sunblock, it’s time for island living to take over. Sandy shores, plenty of Vitamin D and cool waves lapping at your feet await.

You may also like: The best Eid al Fitr staycation deals in the UAE 2024

Made up of about 200 inhabited islands and many beautiful resorts, the Maldives is a bucket-list destination for many.

Whether you are a solo traveller looking for some downtime, a couple after a romantic getaway or you want to travel with the family, there are many options for you to explore.

Here are some cool Maldives’ destinations to make a bee-line for this Eid.

Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives

Atoll: North Male

Nothing is cooler than an upgrade and at Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives, there are a few you can count on. Book before Tuesday April 30 for a stay before Sunday June 30 and you’ll get free meal upgrades, 20 percent savings on dining and spa treatments, a themed dinner for two, and a shisha experience for two. Those who stay for at least three nights will also receive free return transfers, while those booking for four nights or more will receive a complimentary sunset fishing trip for two as well.

Various. Until Tue Apr 30 (for stays before Sun June 30). Male North Harbour, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Maldives. centarahotelsresorts.com (+960 664 3880)

Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa

Atoll: North Male Atoll

A lively Bodumas (“big fish” in Dhivehi) parade and a Boduberu (traditional drum) performance kick off the Eid celebrations at Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa. When staying at the resort, which is only 20 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the resort recommends young families choose the one-bedroom beach pool villa, where two adults and two children below 12 can easily be comfy.

The villa has a sundeck with a large swing, private outdoor pool, sun loungers and gazebo, and direct access to the beach and breathtaking ocean views, perfect for family playtime on the shore. Rates begin at Dhs5,765.98 per night.

For a relaxing time, head to Amingiri Spa. And for the kiddos, there are a range of activities at Krakengiri Kids’ Club, from outdoor sports like tennis, basketball, badminton and pickleball to marine excursions around the atoll. Want something that the whole family can bond over? Try an art session with the resident artist, or learn culinary techniques at a Middle Eastern master cooking class.

From Dhs5,765.98 (beach pool villa). Ongoing. Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa hilton.com (+960 664 63 64).

InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort

Atoll: Raa Atoll

Ever wanted to dance with dolphins in their natural habitat? When you go to the Maldives you can. The InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort is offering a number of incentives (in case you need it) for people wanting to deep dive into Maldivian culture and hospitality. Benefits include a 20 percent discount on best available rate when you book a three-night stay between Saturday April 6 and Tuesday April 16 and Saturday June 8 and Saturday June 22.

The package comes with daily breakfast and dinner, 50 percent off on seaplane transfers and private lounge access.

Travelling with your significant other? You get a 60-minute couple treatment at AVI Spa and shisha at Pool Bar or The Retreat. There’s also a dolphin or fishing excursion for two, and loads of complimentary water sports activities such as catamaran sailing and wildsurfing. Daily afternoon tea is served from 3pm–5pm, evening aperitif from 5pm – 7pm, and poolside refreshments from 11am to 6pm.

For kids, there’s a Planet Trekkers kids club. You have your own Island Curator and 24-hour e-Curator service. And at the end of your visit, you’ll have a 30-minute photoshoot, to keep things memorable. But we still think it’s the dolphins that you’ve really got to meet.

Various. Apr 6 -16 and Jun 8 -Jun 22. maldives.intercontinental.com (+960 658 0500).

SO/ Maldives

Atoll: South Male

It doesn’t get more luxury than an island escape and for yours we suggest SO/ Maldives, which has beautiful beachfront and over-water villas. As part of its Eid offerings, you can book three nights before Monday April 15 and you’ll get complimentary speedboat transfers and a relaxing 60-minute spa treatment for two, as well as access to a beach club, Wellness Camp and a programme of activities for all ages.

In the hotel’s Arrival Pavilion, on Tuesday April 9, Hadaba will showcase a special sharing set menu, including a mixed grill platter for an authentic Arabian Eid feast. For fitness and relaxation, check out Wellness Camp, which has an extensive spa menu, steam and sauna rooms. There are also complimentary classes such as yoga, meditation and sound healing here.

No visit to Maldivian waters would be complete without some marine expeditions and there are plenty of excursions here to help you discover marine life. For kids, there’s a game room and a kids’ club, The Nest. On Tuesday April 9, from 9am to 5.30pm, there are also Eid-themed activities for the whole family.

Various. Before Mon Apr 15. Lagoon, Emboodhoo, Malé 20028, Maldives. so-hotels.com (+960 664 9100).

Velaa Private Island

Atoll: Noonu Atoll

To get to the Noonu Atoll is a 45-minute seaplane ride from Male International Airport, but it really is worth the trip. The island has luxury private residences, world-class dining experiences, unique spa treatments, a wellbeing village, adventurous activities, as well as a golf course and kids’ club.

The two-storey Nika Private Residence, for instance, has the usual amenities and it also has a Jacuzzi, private gym, spa room, a large pool and an outdoor relaxation area. The Wellness village is home to Eveylaa Wellbeing, the Yoga Pavilion and Pilates Studio and Faiy wellness restaurant. And it’s here you can go for body treatments that are based on the ancient practise of Ayurveda.

Various. R6J5+GQW, Republic of Maldives, Maldives. velaaprivateisland.com (+960 656-5000).

Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi

Atoll: South Malé Atoll

For an Eid getaway for two, the resort’s Stella Maris Ocean Villa offers experiences including daily-in villa breakfast, a dedicated daily cabana at the main resort and a barbecue with a private chef under the stars. Exclusive to Stella Maris’s guests is a private couple’s massage. Post-massage indulgences include a bottle of bubbly and chocolates.

From $3,880 (Dhs14,250, four nights). Wed Apr 10-Sun Apr 14. waldorfastoriamaldives.com

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