We stayed as a family in a two-bedroom suite, paying over USD 4,000 per night. At this price point, the level of service at this resort was shockingly poor.
For a luxury resort of this category, a dedicated private butler is generally expected (we have previously stayed at high-end resorts in the Maldives multiple times). Shebara does not offer this. Instead, guests are told to communicate via a single WhatsApp number, which already sets a disappointing tone.
The most concerning issue was the complete lack of response through the only communication method provided. As shown in the attached screenshots, I sent multiple messages over the course of an entire morning without any reply. When we required a buggy, there was no response whatsoever, and we were ultimately forced to walk to the main check-in area in person before anyone took action.
The departure experience was equally frustrating. We requested a private boat transfer for our departure. Before contacting WhatsApp, my mother had already spoken to the front desk and was told to wait for WhatsApp confirmation. We waited the entire evening and still received nothing. The next day, when I followed up via WhatsApp, the staff acted as if this was the first time hearing about the request, asking for all details again. I had to repeat myself at least three times, which was incredibly inefficient and unprofessional.
To further highlight the operational disorganization, I was sent a daily activity schedule a full day after we had already checked out, as evidenced in the attached screenshot. The message appeared to be sent in bulk, with no regard for guest status or timing. This lack of basic coordination is unacceptable for a resort charging luxury-level rates.
The most unacceptable issue: although our room was fully prepaid, the final bill incorrectly charged us for the room again. My mother was understandably furious, and only then did the staff revise the bill. For a hotel at this price level, this is a basic and unforgivable accounting error.
Housekeeping was also far below standard. Face towels were sometimes missing, used tissues were left on the floor after cleaning, drinks from our room were mistakenly removed; although we were told replacements would be provided, the items were still charged on our final bill.
Even simple food and beverage details were disappointing. I frequently order matcha lattes, and here they were made with water instead of milk, which is unacceptable for a resort charging these rates.
There are many other small service failures that are difficult to recall after a week since the trip, but the overall impression is very clear: the service throughout the stay was consistently poor. It appears that management lacks proper oversight.
The only redeeming aspect of this resort is its architectural design and visual appeal, making it suitable for photos. Beyond aesthetics, there is nothing worth recommending. Compared to resorts such as JOALI and The Ritz-Carlton in the Maldives, Shebara falls dramatically short.
I will not return to Shebara and would not recommend it to anyone.
