A fresh chapter in Maldivian hospitality begins this February with the opening of Rah Gili Maldives, the first resort from Six & Six Private Islands. Located in the South Malé Atoll, the private island retreat is a 40-minute speedboat journey from Velana International Airport and sits beside a protected marine sanctuary.

Six & Six Private Islands was founded in 2024 by hotelier Laith Pharaon. The brand plans to open six private island resorts across the Maldives over six years, each designed as an individual destination rather than part of a fixed global template.

Rah Gili sets the tone for this approach. The resort comprises 74 villas, including 37 overwater villas, alongside six restaurants, four bars, a spa, fitness centre, dive hub and kids' club, supported by a series of informal social spaces. The aesthetic favour of contemporary design using local materials and craft traditions. At the heart of the experience is Rayyithun, the cultural framework guiding the brand. The term means "People of the Islands" in Dhivehi and reflects an effort to place Maldivian heritage at the centre of island life. This is expressed through the Edhurun programme, where guests are supported by mentors rather than traditional butlers, offering local insight and guidance without fixed schedules.

Experiences are designed to remain flexible, with wellness practitioners, creative specialists and culturally grounded programming available as guests choose. The emphasis is on personal rhythm rather than activity-led itineraries, allowing visitors to shape their stay as they wish.Sustainability is embedded into the resort's infrastructure. Rah Gili operates a hybrid energy system powered by solar and battery storage, reducing diesel use and supporting marine conservation initiatives around the island. The resort also follows a zero-plastic policy and has invested in advanced water treatment systems.

The opening comes as the Maldives undergoes a new wave of high-end development, with brands such as Aman, Rosewood, Ritz-Carlton, and Cheval Blanc expanding across private islands and branded residences. As the market matures, cultural depth and lifestyle-led design are becoming key points of distinction alongside scale and service.Rah Gili is the first step in a wider portfolio. The second property, Don Maaga Maldives, is scheduled to open towards the end of 2026 and will include some of the largest villas in the country, with select homes available as private residences. Across the portfolio, a limited number of villas will be offered for purchase, allowing owners to buy into the same long-term vision.

Rates at Rah Gili Maldives start from US$1,120 per night, including daily breakfast, return speedboat transfers, tax and service charge.