Categories & Criteria

Twelve awards across guesthouses, individuals and islands each with clear evidence expectations for a fair, transparent judging process.

A recognition of the guesthouses at the heart of Maldivian tourism. Open to any registered guesthouse in the Maldives, these eight awards celebrate distinct strengths across the guest experience from service and hospitality to authenticity, cuisine, sustainability, community, and the marine environment. Guesthouses are judged within their size group, Track 1 (3–10 rooms) and Track 2 (11 rooms or more). Every property is measured against others of comparable scale.

1

Service Excellence & Hospitality

Exceptional service, genuine care, and personalised guest experiences. Repeat travelers, Families & Value seekers

Evidence Expected
  • Review & Rating Links (TripAdvisor / Google / Booking.com)
  • Guest Satisfaction Survey Results
  • Guest Preference Records
  • Guest Request Handling Examples
  • Staff List & Roles
  • Staff Training Details
  • Guest Satisfaction Results
2

Authentic Maldivian Experience

Genuine Maldivian lifestyle through architecture, cuisine & culture. Cultural explorers, First-timers & Slow travelers

Evidence Expected
  • Cultural Experience Description
  • Cultural Experience Photos/videos
  • Sample Menu Upload
  • Menu/Dish Photos
  • Island Life Connection Description
  • Local Knowledge & Storytelling Examples
  • Cultural Preservation Description
3

Island Excursions & Experiences

Water sports, local traditions, and unique outdoor activities. Adventure seekers, Youth & Couples

Evidence Expected
  • Excursions & Experiences List
  • Experience Photos
  • Safety Certifications
  • Safety Briefing / Equipment Description
  • Guide Details
  • CV
  • Qualifications
  • Environmental Practices Description
  • Excursion Pricing
4

Culinary Experience

Innovative cuisine making food a highlight of the guest journey. Food tourists, Cultural explorers & Social media

Evidence Expected
  • Sample Menu Upload
  • Menu/Dish Photos
  • Local/Maldivian Dishes Description
  • Dining Area Photos
  • MFDA Food Establishment Registration Certificate
  • Dietary Accommodation Examples
5

Eco-friendly

Strong commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. Eco-conscious & Ethical travelers

Evidence Expected
  • Waste/Plastic Reduction Description
  • Supporting Photos
  • Energy & Water Measures Description
  • Marine/Environmental Protection Activities
  • Local & Sustainable Sourcing Description
  • Sustainability Certifications
6

Community Impact

Supporting local employment, businesses, culture & social initiatives. Community-minded & CSR groups

Evidence Expected
  • Local Employment Details
  • Local Sourcing & Suppliers Description
  • Community Engagement Description
  • Social/Cultural Initiatives Description
  • Duration of Community Involvement
7

Digital Presence

Leveraging digital platforms to enhance visibility and drive bookings. Millennials & Gen Z & Digital explorers

Evidence Expected
  • Website URL
  • Social Media Handles/Links
  • Review Platform Links
  • Review Response Examples
  • Online Discoverability Description
8

Iconic Marine & Dive Experience

Exceptional marine experiences and responsible ocean-based activities. Divers, Photographers & Safari cruisers

Evidence Expected
  • Marine/Dive Experience Description
  • Experience Photos
  • Dive Certifications
  • Safety Information
  • Dive Instructors/Guides Details
  • Marine Conservation Activities
  • Guest Feedback on Marine/Dive Experiences