Maldives’ luxury resorts, such as JW Marriott, St. Regis, Westin, and Ritz-Carlton, operate on a unique time system known as ‘Island Time,’ where their clocks are set one hour ahead of the country’s official time zone (GMT+5).
“This deliberate time adjustment is more than a mere quirk of travel; it is a thoughtful enhancement to the guest experience, catering to the diverse needs of our international visitors,” said Mohit Dembla, general manager of JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, speaking to CNN Travel.
The practice of ‘Island Time’ is designed to help guests relax and enjoy their stay without worrying about schedules. It allows visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and leisure activities that the Maldives offer, including turquoise waters and rich marine life.
The four Maldives properties under the Marriott Group umbrella – JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, and Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands – all observe ‘Island Time’ to enhance the guest experience.
This practice reflects the Maldives’ reputation as a destination for luxury and relaxation, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and hospitality tailored to international travelers.
