In the heart of the Indian Ocean, surrounded by shimmering turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs, lies a sublime luxurious sanctuary devoted entirely to holistic wellbeing. JOALI BEING, located on the secluded Bodufushi Island in the Raa Atoll, is a trailblazer in wellness hospitality. As the first retreat in the Maldives to focus exclusively on transformative wellbeing, JOALI BEING combines cutting-edge science, ancient traditions, and the natural beauty of its setting to craft an experience unlike any other.
From its eco-conscious design and bespoke wellness programmes to its sumptuous villas and nutrient-rich culinary offerings, JOALI BEING is not merely a resort—it’s an invitation to rediscover yourself.
Arrival: Serenity from the Start
The journey to JOALI BEING begins with a 45-minute seaplane ride from Malé’s sea plane terminal. After your long international flight, you’ll delight in the resort’s gorgeous private lounge where you can relax, enjoy refreshments, watch arrivals and departures and even spot Joali’s own sea plane, rather pretty in a tasteful lilac hue.
Even this initial leg feels like part of the retreat’s magic, with sweeping aerial views of the Maldives’ atolls creating a sense of awe. Upon landing, guests are welcomed by their personal Jadugar—meaning “magician” in Dhivehi—a dedicated butler who ensures every need is met with effortless grace. These are true magic makers and will do their utmost to make all your dreams come true during your stay.
The island itself is a vision of pristine beauty: ivory sands kissed by aquamarine waters, coconut palms swaying in the breeze, and lush foliage offering a haven of shade and tranquillity. The architecture, inspired by biophilic design principles, seamlessly integrates with the environment, enhancing the connection between guests and nature from the very first moment.
Villas: Where Elegance Meets Harmony
JOALI BEING offers an array of super-luxurious villas, each with a private infinity pool and an aura of serenity. Beautifully designed and decorated to reflect the retreat’s commitment to sustainability and biophilic design, these accommodations ensure that every stay is as indulgent as it is eco-conscious.
Beach Villas:
Nestled amidst tropical greenery, the beach villas offer direct access to the island’s powdery sands and crystal-clear waters. These sanctuaries are perfect for those who crave a grounded connection to nature. The interiors feature pretty pastel tones and textures, blending contemporary elegance with Maldivian craftsmanship. Guests can relax in expansive outdoor living spaces, complete with large private pools and shaded cabanas ideal for lounging. They are among the very best you’ll find anywhere in the Maldives for beauty, décor, comfort, luxury and practicality.
Water Villas:
Suspended above the lagoon, the stunning water villas provide an unparalleled sense of freedom. With glass panels offering views of the vibrant marine life below, these villas bring the ocean to your doorstep. The design features soothing colours, organic materials, and spacious sundecks, complete with infinity pools and outdoor rain showers. Direct access to the water allows guests to immerse themselves in the lagoon’s gentle embrace at any time.
Grand Residences:
For families or groups, JOALI BEING’s multi-bedroom residences are the epitome of luxury. These sprawling accommodations include multiple bedrooms, private living areas, and expansive outdoor terraces designed for entertaining or simply soaking in the beauty of the Maldives. Thoughtful touches, such as personalised wellness equipment and bespoke amenities, ensure that every detail reflects the retreat’s ethos of holistic living.
Each villa comes with a dedicated Jadugar, ensuring guests’ experiences are tailored to their every desire. From arranging private dinners to coordinating bespoke wellness sessions, the service is as seamless as the design.
The Philosophy of Wellbeing
At the heart of JOALI BEING lies the concept of “weightlessness”—a state of freedom, lightness, and joy. This guiding philosophy is brought to life through personalised wellness programmes that combine modern science with time-honoured traditions. The retreat’s approach is centred around four core pillars:
Mind: Enhancing clarity, emotional balance, and resilience.
Skin: Fostering radiance and health through tailored treatments and nutrition.
Microbiome: Supporting gut health to promote overall vitality.
Energy: Revitalising physical and mental strength through movement and healing therapies.
AREKA: The Soul of JOALI BEING
The AREKA wellness centre is a sanctuary for transformation, featuring state-of-the-art facilities and a team of world-class experts. Guests embark on bespoke wellness journeys tailored to their specific goals, with programmes that address stress, detox, sleep enhancement, and more.
Highlights of AREKA Include:
Sound Therapy Hall: A space dedicated to the healing power of sound vibrations, where specific frequencies are used to restore inner harmony.
Watsu Pool: Offering aquatic therapy sessions that combine gentle stretches with the soothing embrace of warm water.
Russian Banya: A traditional steam experience designed to detoxify and rejuvenate.
Diagnostic Lounge: Equipped with advanced technologies to personalise each guest’s wellness journey.
Every element of AREKA is designed to empower guests on their path to physical, emotional, and spiritual balance.
Culinary Offerings: Nourishment for Body and Soul
Dining at JOALI BEING is a seamless extension of its wellness philosophy. The retreat’s Earth-to-Table initiative prioritises ingredient traceability and sustainability, using fresh, locally sourced produce to create nutrient-rich meals.
FLOW:
The resort’s main dining venue is an open-plan interactive space housing three signature kitchens:
Plantae: Specialising in vegetarian and vegan cuisine.
Su: Offering ocean-to-table pescatarian dishes.
B’Well: Featuring a menu designed around the retreat’s wellness pillars.
MOJO:
A laid-back beachfront eatery, MOJO transforms from a sunlit lunch spot into a chic venue offering Japanese-inspired dishes at sunset. The multi-tiered sundeck provides spectacular ocean views, making it an ideal setting for a sundowner cocktail or a leisurely meal.
Tea Lounge:
Guests can also partake in immersive tea ceremonies led by JOALI BEING’s resident tea sommeliers. These guided rituals explore rare, organic teas sourced from around the globe, with a focus on their therapeutic benefits. From calming herbal infusions to invigorating green teas, this mindful practice deepens guests’ connection to one of the world’s most ancient wellness traditions, offering both relaxation and education in equal measure.
Each culinary experience at JOALI BEING aligns with the retreat’s wellness philosophy, ensuring that every bite contributes to guests’ holistic journeys. Whether savouring a nutrient-rich meal at FLOW, enjoying a sunset dinner at MOJO, or indulging in a bespoke tea-tasting experience, guests are invited to nourish their bodies and minds in ways that feel both indulgent and transformative.
Transformational Wellness Programmes
JOALI BEING stands apart in its approach to wellness, offering highly personalised programmes tailored to individual goals. Whether guests seek stress relief, improved digestion, enhanced energy, or simply a space to unwind, the retreat’s wellness journeys are designed to deliver profound and lasting benefits.
The Four Pillars of Wellbeing:
At the core of these programmes are the retreat’s four pillars:
Mind: Enhancing mental clarity and emotional balance through mindfulness practices, meditation, and sound therapy.
Skin: Focusing on radiance and skin health with targeted treatments and nutritional guidance.
Microbiome: Supporting gut health to boost immunity and overall vitality through tailored diets and therapies.
Energy: Strengthening physical and mental resilience with mindful movement and holistic healing practices.
Each guest begins their journey with a consultation at the Diagnostic Lounge, where wellness experts use advanced technology to assess their current health and create bespoke plans. This ensures that every programme is as unique as the individual, allowing guests to address their specific needs with precision and care.
AREKA: The Healing Heart of JOALI BEING
The AREKA wellness centre is the soul of JOALI BEING, featuring 39 treatment rooms and an array of state-of-the-art facilities designed to nurture and restore. Its offerings are diverse, incorporating ancient wisdom and modern science to provide guests with an immersive healing experience.
Key Features of AREKA Include:
Sound Therapy Hall: Harnessing the power of vibrational frequencies, this space guides guests on a meditative journey designed to restore inner harmony and balance.
Watsu Pool: A signature feature, this warm-water therapy combines gentle stretching and massage to promote deep relaxation and emotional release.
Herbology Centre (AKTAR): Inspired by traditional spice apothecaries, AKTAR offers hands-on workshops where guests can learn about the therapeutic properties of herbs and create personalised teas, oils, and natural remedies.
Hydrotherapy Hall: This tranquil space features a Russian banya, a salt inhalation room, and a sensory deprivation pool—each designed to detoxify, rejuvenate, and relax.
Every element of AREKA reflects JOALI BEING’s commitment to holistic health, empowering guests to reconnect with themselves and the world around them.
Nature and Adventure: Exploring the Maldives
For guests who wish to step beyond the serene confines of the retreat, JOALI BEING offers a wealth of activities that celebrate the natural beauty of the Maldives.
Marine Adventures:
Explore the vibrant underwater world with guided snorkelling and diving excursions led by the resort’s resident marine biologists. These experiences offer a chance to encounter colourful coral reefs, tropical fish, and even majestic sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Water Sports:
For those seeking excitement, the retreat provides kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. Alternatively, a private yacht charter allows guests to discover hidden lagoons and uninhabited islands in unparalleled luxury.
Leisurely Escapes:
Guests can unwind with sunset dolphin cruises, where the Maldivian waters are illuminated by the golden glow of dusk. Stargazing sessions on the beach provide another opportunity for quiet contemplation, with the island’s remote location offering breathtaking views of the night sky.
Cultural Experiences:
The retreat also curates art and culture workshops, allowing guests to explore traditional Maldivian crafts or participate in cooking classes that delve into the region’s culinary heritage. These immersive experiences deepen guests’ appreciation for the Maldives and its vibrant culture.
Sustainability: A Commitment to the Planet
At JOALI BEING, luxury and sustainability go hand in hand. The resort was meticulously designed to minimise its environmental footprint, with eco-conscious features such as solar energy systems, a desalination plant, and a seawater cooling system.
The retreat operates with a zero-waste policy, banning single-use plastics and emphasising biodegradable materials. Additionally, JOALI BEING actively supports local communities by sourcing fresh produce from nearby farms and collaborating with Maldivian artisans.
This commitment to sustainability ensures that guests can indulge in luxury without compromising their values, making JOALI BEING a model for eco-conscious hospitality.
Final Thoughts: A Journey to Weightlessness
JOALI BEING is not merely a resort; it is a transformational journey, a sanctuary where guests can explore their inner worlds while embracing the beauty of the Maldives. From its thoughtfully designed villas and pioneering wellness programmes to its nutrient-rich cuisine and commitment to sustainability, every aspect of JOALI BEING reflects a profound dedication to holistic living.
Whether you’re seeking physical rejuvenation, mental clarity, or simply a space to breathe, JOALI BEING offers an experience that transcends the ordinary. It is a place where luxury, wellbeing, and sustainability converge, inviting you to discover the joy of weightlessness and leave with a renewed sense of self.
By Lisa Curtiss
