TIME Magazine has placed Six Senses Laamu on its “World’s Greatest Places of 2026” list, a selection that honors destinations offering unique experiences, innovative practices, and a positive influence worldwide. The award underscores the resort’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable operations in the Maldives.
Marteyne van Well, Regional General Manager, explained that the accolade reflects the continuous work of the resort staff together with the local community to safeguard the atoll’s natural environment.
Situated in Laamu Atoll, the resort integrates scientific research into the guest journey via the Sea Hub for Environmental Learning in Laamu (SHELL), a dedicated marine‑research centre. In partnership with several NGOs, Six Senses Laamu also launched the Maldives Underwater Initiative (MUI), which supports reef restoration and marine studies. After the severe coral‑bleaching event of 2024, researchers cultivated and released three million coral larvae from on‑site labs onto damaged reefs and propagated vulnerable coral species to aid ecosystem recovery.
The property works with organisations such as the Manta Trust, which has recorded over 150 manta rays in the area and employs the world’s first underwater contact‑less ultrasound scanner to monitor pregnant individuals, and the Olive Ridley Project, which runs sea‑turtle conservation programmes. Recent seagrass surveys have uncovered previously unknown species and highlighted their role as nurseries for reef fish.
Visitors can take part in these programmes by touring the SHELL laboratories, joining conservation activities, diving with resident biologists, or obtaining specialised diving certifications that focus on manta rays and reef ecosystems.
Six Senses Laamu offers over‑water and beachfront villas built from sustainably sourced materials and remains the sole five‑star resort in Laamu Atoll. Its model demonstrates how luxury hospitality can actively support scientific research and environmental protection while delivering an immersive island experience.
Source: visitmaldives.com
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