The landscape is shifting for luxury travel – no longer will pillow menus and high-thread counts suffice. In 2026, travellers are increasingly looking for premium stays that allow plenty of breathing room for unpretentious, unforced and unscripted guest experiences. 

Cue Niva, the exciting new brand from Universal Resorts, soon to be Versa Hospitality. Launching with several idyllic beachfront properties across the Maldives and Seychelles in 2026 – and plans for future destinations to extend beyond the Indian Ocean – Niva promises to deliver premium escapes that are rooted in a sense of place. 

Here’s what agents need to know about Niva Hotels & Resorts and the refined, authentic experiences they have to offer. 

Where are Niva Hotels & Resorts opening?

Niva will launch with not one, but five unique hotels in the first quarter of 2026. Their properties – although aligning in core values – are distinct in their personalities. Whether looking for a secluded stay within a national park or a hotel with more of a social buzz and lively spirit, there's guaranteed to be a perfect match for your clients. 

Opening in January is Niva Labriz in the Seychelles, followed by Niva Velassaru and Niva Dhigali in the Maldives. Coming in March, two more properties will be added to Niva’s Maldives portfolio – Niva Kuramathi and Niva Kurumba. 

(credit: NIVA Hotels & Resorts)

What is the Niva concept all about?

Freedom is an important concept of Niva. From sipping on cocktails at the bar to finding moments of peace on your own private balcony, there’s so much choice available around Niva’s properties – yet no pressure or expectations for guests to do anything. 

Whether a participant or observer, guests are encouraged to move at their own pace during their stay at Niva – and although thoughtful, curated experiences are available, they unfold naturally without feeling forced. 

This philosophy is inspired and shaped by the heritage and mindset of the people of the Indian Ocean islands, where life is unhurried and instinctive. 

What does freedom look like at Niva?

From dining and wellbeing to excursions, the Niva concept is incorporated into all elements of the hotels and resorts. 

First of all, Niva’s warm hospitality is intuitive and never scripted. Service culture is built from Niva staff creating genuine connections with the guests, learning their likes and loves through non-intrusive observation and conversation, and adapting to this.

(credit: NIVA Hotels & Resorts)

Each stay also allows guests to enjoy quiet moments to connect with island nature, particularly the rooms, suites and villas surrounded by garden, jungle or ocean environments. Some of the most premium accommodation options feature luxurious extras, from private plunge pools to outdoor rain showers. 

Around Niva Hotels & Resorts, spaces and tailored activities encourage spontaneous interactions between guests. Whether joining a beach yoga session or a diving adventure, your clients can explore freely and create meaningful connections and friendships at a rhythm that suits them. 

Niva’s relaxed yet elevated dining is inspired by the easy pace of island life, with multiple restaurants at each hotel providing guests the freedom to choose exactly what dining experience they want at any time of day. From Indian Ocean specialties to international cuisine, every menu incorporates locally sourced produce, with dishes tailored to accommodate guest preferences.