Nala Maldives by Jawakara: A Serene, Halal-Friendly Sanctuary for Discerning Gulf Travellers

In the heart of the pristine Lhaviyani Atoll, a new chapter of luxury has begun. Formerly known as Innahura Maldives Resort, the property has undergone a transformative upgrade and rebranding to become Nala Maldives by Jawakara, a five-star adults-only retreat that opened its doors in December 2025.

Designed for the discerning traveller from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, Nala Maldives offers a harmonious blend of contemporary luxury, profound privacy, and cultural sensitivity, creating a sanctuary where relaxation meets respect for tradition.

" Nala Maldives represents a new standard in luxury hospitality, combining elegance, privacy, and cultural sensitivity for discerning travellers from the Gulf region. "

Privacy and Elegance in Lhaviyani Atoll

Nala Maldives is positioned as an intimate escape for couples and families with older children (aged 12 and above), ensuring a tranquil atmosphere free from the bustle of younger crowds. The resort comprises 80 elegantly designed villas, each crafted to provide a sense of seclusion and modern comfort.

For those seeking the ultimate in privacy, the Sunset Beach Pool Villas and Ocean Pool Villas stand out. The Sunset Beach Pool Villas feature private infinity pools with direct beach access, expansive terraces with shaded pavilions, and stunning sunset views, offering a secluded environment ideal for relaxation and stargazing. The Ocean Pool Villas, situated over the western lagoon, provide personal infinity pools and direct access to the ocean, immersing guests in the marine beauty of the Maldives.

All villas are equipped with high-end amenities, including air conditioning, flat-screen IPTVs, and private verandas. The design emphasizes natural light and open spaces, allowing guests to feel connected to the surrounding environment while maintaining a high degree of personal seclusion. This focus on privacy is particularly appealing to female guests and families who value discreet and exclusive outdoor spaces for relaxation and dining.

Halal-Friendly Culinary Excellence

Dining at Nala Maldives is a journey of flavors, with three distinct restaurants catering to diverse tastes. Velu serves as the main all-day dining venue, offering an international buffet with live cooking stations. Milos specializes in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine, focusing on fresh seafood and authentic dishes, while Kumo presents an Asian fusion menu combining traditional flavors from Japan, Thailand, China, and Korea. For lighter bites, the Snack Lab provides smoothies, bowls, and grab-and-go options, including vegan and gluten-free choices.

Crucially for Muslim travellers, the resort explicitly accommodates halal dietary needs. As the Maldives is a Muslim country, all imported meat is typically halal-certified, and the resort ensures that halal options are readily available upon request. Guests can enjoy their meals with confidence, knowing that their dietary requirements are respected and met with high-quality ingredients.

While the resort does serve alcohol in its bars, including the elegant overwater Bubbles champagne bar, it offers a thoughtful service for guests who prefer an alcohol-free experience. Guests can request alcohol-free rooms and minibars, which are stocked exclusively with non-alcoholic beverages, mocktails, smoothies, and freshly squeezed juices. This flexibility allows guests to tailor their stay to their personal preferences, ensuring a comfortable and compliant luxury experience.

Wellness and Exclusive Island Experiences

Nala Maldives offers a range of wellness and recreational activities designed for relaxation and enrichment. The Sulha Spa provides holistic treatments, including massages, Ayurvedic therapies, and unique features such as a Himalayan salt room, red-light therapy, and cold bath therapy. The spa’s private, fully-secluded treatment rooms ensure complete comfort and privacy for female guests.

For adventure seekers, the resort features a PADI-certified dive center, ProDivers, offering guided dives and snorkeling trips to over 50 sites in the Lhaviyani Atoll. Guests can also enjoy kayaking, catamaran sailing, and jet skiing. On land, facilities include a state-of-the-art fitness center, tennis and padel courts, and a football pitch. Evening entertainment includes live music and DJ nights, providing a vibrant yet sophisticated atmosphere.

Dual-Island Advantage for Families

For families with younger children, Nala Maldives offers a unique advantage through its close affiliation with the adjacent Jawakara Islands Maldives. Connected by a bridge, Jawakara is a dedicated family-friendly five-star resort that opened in October 2023. It features spacious multi-bedroom villas, a large kids' club accredited by Worldwide Kids, and extensive family-oriented activities, including a golf course, private sandbank picnics, and dolphin spotting cruises. This dual-island setup allows multi-generational families to enjoy the serene, adults-only atmosphere of Nala while ensuring that younger children have access to engaging and supervised activities at Jawakara.

Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship

Nala Maldives is deeply committed to sustainability, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental responsibility. The resort is powered by solar energy, with approximately 40% of its operations supported by solar panels, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. An on-site water desalination and bottling plant eliminates the use of single-use plastic water bottles, and the resort partners with Parley Maldives for comprehensive waste management. Additionally, the resort maintains an on-site garden for fresh produce, further reducing its environmental impact.

Travel and Accessibility from the Gulf

Nala Maldives is accessible via a scenic 35-40 minute seaplane transfer from Velana International Airport in Malé, offering breathtaking aerial views of the atolls. For travellers from Saudi Arabia and the GCC, the Maldives offers a free 30-day tourist visa upon arrival, making it a convenient and accessible destination. Major Gulf carriers offer direct flights to Malé, and early booking is recommended for travel during Eid and school holidays due to high demand.

" Whether seeking a romantic escape or a family-friendly retreat with adjacent facilities, Nala Maldives provides a memorable and respectful luxury experience in the heart of the Maldives. "

Book your stay at Nala Maldives by Jawakara today and experience the perfect blend of luxury, privacy, and cultural sensitivity.