Month: October 2024

Oaga Art Resort invites guests on an enchanting journey of exploration, creativity, and celebration, serving as a sanctuary for artistic expression. Inspired by the tale of castaways finding joy and peace on a secluded island, Oaga transforms into a vibrant celebration of life and nature. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the island’s beauty and participate in various activities, from crafting nature-inspired masks to creating eco-friendly art and more.

Throughout the festive season, guests can relax to the island’s rhythm, enjoying performances by over 25 local and international artists. The lineup includes soulful jazz, exhilarating rock, calming folk, lively DJ sets, and the entrancing traditional drums of Bodu Beru, offering a variety of musical experiences for everyone.

The Lost Soirées invite guests to immerse themselves in music, with the island’s rhythm flowing through soulful local tunes and electrifying beats from international artists.

Special Events:

• New Year’s Eve Party: Celebrate under the stars at the “Lost in Time” New Year’s Eve event, featuring dynamic music and captivating performances.
• Marooned Masquerade Party: A night of elegance and mystery, where creativity comes alive.

Guests can also experience Maldivian culture at the local market, where they can support artisans and enjoy a vibrant shopping experience. The Castaway experience offers exclusive sandbank workshops in dance, music, and more.

At the Hoba Spa, visitors can find tranquility through ancient Maldivian healing practices. Surrounded by natural sounds and traditional rituals, guests can enter the new year with a sense of peace and intention.

The Suvaasthi Gallery and Art Studio offers a creative space where art comes alive. Guests can observe live art by renowned artists and immerse themselves in a world of color and inspiration.

• Watercolour Journals of Nazimbe: This exhibition showcases selected watercolour works by acclaimed Maldivian artist Ahmed Nazim, sharing his introspective storytelling.
• Live Art by Mary Haleem: Renowned botanical artist Mary Haleem presents live demonstrations and interactive art sessions.
• Mural by Afu: Maldivian artist Afu depicts the mythical origins of the Maldives through a surreal mural, captivating audiences with his unique storytelling.

Young guests can spark their creativity at Fiyoh Club, with activities like designing castaway costumes, decorating gingerbread dhoanis, and creating eco-friendly art projects.

For culinary enthusiasts, the resort offers an unforgettable experience, with local island ingredients transformed into gourmet dishes, handcrafted cocktails, and fine wine pairings.

Guests can also engage in sustainable practices, such as planting coral for an underwater Christmas tree or crafting bracelets from ghost nets, contributing to the preservation of the island’s natural beauty.

Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort is set to host a month-long wellness retreat in November, led by acclaimed sound healing practitioner Urmi, at its exclusive Arufen Spa. During this event, guests can embark on a transformative wellness journey with professional sound healing sessions, offered either in the peaceful surroundings of the spa or in the privacy of their own villas.

The Arufen Spa at Sirru Fen Fushi is a serene sanctuary focused on holistic wellness, offering eight treatment rooms where skilled therapists provide a variety of services, including massages, body scrubs, Ayurvedic treatments, and both yoga and aerial yoga sessions. Guests can also relax in the spa’s expansive jacuzzi, one of the largest in the Maldives, enhancing their rejuvenation experience.

Sound healing, an ancient therapeutic practice, uses vibrational frequencies to encourage relaxation, relieve stress, and restore the body’s natural balance. Practitioners create immersive soundscapes through instruments like gongs, crystal bowls, and percussion, guiding individuals into deeper states of self-awareness and calm.

Urmi, whose name means “wave” in Sanskrit, specializes in restorative practices that bring ancient techniques into modern life. Her approach integrates sound, language, music, nature, and meditation, helping individuals explore their inner worlds through vibration and sound.

At Sirru Fen Fushi, retreat participants can reconnect with nature on one of the largest natural islands in the region, an ideal environment for holistic wellness and personal renewal amid tropical beauty.

Guests may also book private healing sessions with Urmi, tailored to individual needs, either at the spa or in their villas. These sessions are designed to calm the nervous system, clear energetic and emotional blockages, and help individuals return to a balanced state. The therapeutic vibrations promote alpha and theta brainwave activity, support physiological health, and regulate the parasympathetic nervous system, providing a nurturing space for self-discovery and personal growth.

The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) has announced a national competition to create landmark designs for iconic sites, including Velana International Airport, Male’ City, underwater locations, and various islands across the Maldives, excluding the Greater Male’ area. This initiative aims to celebrate the Maldives’ unique beauty, highlight local artistic talent, and enrich the tourism experience in the “Sunny Side of Life.”

Open to all Maldivian citizens aged 18 and above, the competition encourages participants to express their creativity and national pride by designing landmarks that capture the essence of Maldivian culture, heritage, and natural beauty, tailored to the distinct character of each region.

The top 10 designs will be chosen based on evaluations by a panel of expert judges, complemented by public voting. Winners will each receive a cash prize of MVR 20,000 and a gift package from the competition’s sponsors. Additionally, the winning designs will feature in MMPRC’s marketing efforts, with full credit given to the designers.

Designs must prioritize sustainability, with a height limit of 20 feet, and represent the designated island or area, incorporating elements like local history, activities, and unique features. Judges will assess the entries on creativity, safety, durability, and visual appeal.

Entries should be submitted via email to [email protected] by 6:00 PM on November 30, 2024. Each submission should include a single landmark design with dimensions detailed in CAD and PDF formats, an optional visual representation of the intended location, and a completed application form along with a copy of a valid National ID. For additional questions, participants can contact [email protected].

With this landmark design competition, Visit Maldives aims to elevate Maldivian creativity on a global stage. The selected designs will not only enhance the islands’ aesthetic but also symbolize Maldivian cultural heritage, captivating tourists and reinforcing the “Sunny Side of Life” brand internationally.

Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa has announced that renowned tennis player Elena Vesnina will visit the resort from December 11th to 14th, 2024, to lead a series of exclusive tennis clinics and activities. This event follows the resort’s recent recognition as the TTM Editor’s Choice for Best Resort in Sports & Fitness.

Elena Vesnina, an accomplished Russian tennis player, is widely recognized for her success in both singles and doubles competitions. She has claimed three WTA singles titles, including a notable victory at the esteemed Indian Wells tournament in 2017. In doubles, she has won 19 WTA titles, highlighted by Grand Slam victories at the French Open in 2013, the US Open in 2014, and Wimbledon in 2017, all with her partner Ekaterina Makarova. Vesnina also earned a gold medal in women’s doubles at the 2016 Rio Olympics and took the mixed doubles title at the Australian Open that same year. Her impressive career has brought her to a peak doubles ranking of No. 1 and a career-high singles ranking of No. 13.

During her stay, Vesnina will showcase the luxury and beauty of Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa to her social media followers while offering guests a rare opportunity to improve their tennis skills amid the scenic Maldivian landscape.

Guests staying at the resort during this period will have access to complimentary daily group tennis clinics for all skill levels. Each session, conducted with the resort’s resident tennis coach, will accommodate up to four participants for personalized instruction. Vesnina will lead four one-hour clinics for adults and another four one-hour clinics for children aged 8 and up over the four-day event.

Private sessions with Vesnina can also be arranged for an additional fee, depending on the availability of the coach.

This exclusive event offers a unique chance to learn from a tennis champion, underscoring Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s reputation as a top destination for both luxury and sports.

Located in northern Maldives, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a premier choice for active travelers, providing a diverse selection of activities both on land and water. The resort features two tennis courts, a fully equipped gym, and facilities for indoor badminton, football, basketball, golfing, beach volleyball, Padel, and yoga. Guests can also enjoy jogging and biking trails in the resort’s tropical surroundings.

For those seeking relaxation, the resort offers mindfulness meditation, yoga, and wellness programs focused on a balanced, slow-paced lifestyle. Water activities such as jet-skiing, windsurfing, a floating aqua park, paddleboarding, and guided snorkeling and diving excursions allow guests to experience the vibrant marine life of the Maldives. At Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, luxury and activity blend effortlessly, making it an ideal choice for active travelers seeking both excitement and relaxation

Addu City’s tourism sector reached a major milestone with the introduction of the new Addu Tourism brand identity at Canareef Resort. This initiative, led by the newly established Addu Destination Management Office (ADMO) under the Addu City Council, is designed to position Addu as a prime destination within the Maldives’ luxury tourism market, showcasing its unique charm and natural beauty. The launch reflects the Council’s dedication to fostering a sustainable and thriving tourism industry in Addu.

The event gathered prominent figures, including His Excellency Minister Faisal, Mayor Ali Nizar, and esteemed City Council members, to unveil the Addu Tourism brand film and officially present the brand identity and tagline, “Beyond the Equator.” The brand emphasizes Addu’s distinctive location as one of the few Maldivian regions situated south of the equator, capturing the atoll’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant marine life, and pristine landscapes.

Mayor Nizar, in his address, shared the vision behind Addu’s tourism identity, focusing on positioning Addu as a must-visit destination in the Maldives. “Our aim is to make Addu a top choice for every tourist visiting the Maldives. This new brand reflects our atoll’s authentic essence while enhancing the Maldives’ renowned luxury and hospitality. We are committed to delivering an experience that seamlessly blends Addu’s heritage with the Maldives’ high standards in premium tourism,” he remarked.

Councillor Zareer, head of the ADMO, emphasized the brand launch as a critical element in Addu’s tourism strategy. “This brand is more than just a label; it invites global tourists to experience Addu’s unique charm. We are positioning Addu as a premium, culturally rich destination that aligns with the Maldives’ famed appeal,” stated Councillor Zareer. “Our community, businesses, and stakeholders all play a role in the success of Addu’s brand. This identity is something we move forward together.”

Encrea Studio, during the brand presentation, explained the inspiration for “Beyond the Equator.” Addu’s equatorial position is celebrated in travel literature for its unique allure, which inspired both the tagline and brand concept. The brand emphasizes Addu’s natural landscape, including its pristine coral reefs and lush mangroves. The logo symbolizes the equator’s path around the Earth, with the Addu map at its center.

Encrea Studio introduced five core themes for promoting Addu’s brand identity: Beyond Ordinary: The Dive Destination, Beyond Beaches: The Heart of Islands, Beyond Horizons: Beauty in Sunrises and Sunsets, Beyond Serenity: The Biosphere, and Beyond Dreams: Atoll of Adventure. These themes aim to highlight Addu as a destination that offers visitors a range of unique experiences, from historical landmarks to untouched natural beauty.

This new identity will guide ADMO’s future tourism initiatives, aligning Addu’s development objectives with international standards while safeguarding its cultural heritage.

The launch of Addu’s brand identity marks a new era for Addu’s tourism sector, driven by a collective commitment to sustainable growth and unique visitor experiences that embody the spirit of “Beyond the Equator

Air Arabia, the leading low-cost carrier (LCC) in the Middle East and North Africa, has launched daily non-stop flights between Sharjah and the Maldives as of Sunday. These flights, operating from Sharjah International Airport to Velana International Airport, offer travelers convenient and affordable access to the Maldives, a renowned destination in South Asia.

The Maldives is celebrated for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, making it a premier tropical escape. Whether it’s exploring coral reefs or relaxing on serene beaches, the Maldives offers a unique experience in one of the world’s most beautiful settings.

Air Arabia’s fleet includes modern Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, equipped with generous seat pitches for enhanced comfort in economy class. Passengers can enjoy ‘SkyTime,’ a complimentary in-flight streaming service that delivers a wide selection of entertainment directly to their devices. Additionally, the on-board ‘SkyCafe’ offers a variety of snacks, meals, and sandwiches at affordable prices.

In the Maldives, Let’s Go Maldives serves as the General Sales Agent (GSA) for Air Arabia.

Maafaru International Airport has resumed international flight operations at the start of this year’s tourism season, following a temporary closure for upgrading. The airport is known for hosting the second-largest number of private jets in the Maldives after Velana International Airport.

The airport, which serves high-end tourists visiting nearby luxury resorts, underwent improvements to expand its capacity. It initially opened on December 1, 2019, with financial support from the Abu Dhabi Fund. The recent upgrades included an expansion of the runway to accommodate wide-body aircraft.

A project aimed at doubling the airport’s jet parking capacity was initiated in August, with a six-month deadline. The project involves the development of an area covering 15,300 square metres, allowing the airport to park 26 business jets at a time, compared to the current capacity of 13 jets. This increase is expected to meet the seasonal demand for upper-class travellers.

In addition to the parking capacity expansion, the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) has been awarded a contract valued at $27.2 million (MVR 419.1 million) to further develop the airport. As part of the project, the runway will be extended by 650 metres, enabling the airport to handle larger aircraft such as Boeing 777s. The taxiway will also be widened to facilitate increased traffic.

These developments are expected to enhance the airport’s ability to serve luxury travellers and improve connectivity to resorts in the area.

The much-anticipated “Visit Dharavandhoo Year 2025” has officially launched, setting the stage for a year focused on showcasing the rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and unique experiences of Dharavandhoo Island. This campaign aims to enhance local island tourism, inviting travelers to experience the Maldives beyond luxury resorts.

The launch event, held Thursday evening on the island, was a vibrant display of local talent and culture. Students performed traditional music and dances, joined by cultural presentations from the island’s youth, creating an energetic atmosphere that reflects the spirit of the Dharavandhoo community.

Nestled in the heart of Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Dharavandhoo Island is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers. With top-tier snorkeling at Hanifaru Bay, home to manta rays and whale sharks, and the chance to experience authentic Maldivian hospitality, the island offers an unforgettable, locally-rooted experience.

Throughout the year, the campaign will feature a series of events, including workshops, seminars, an Instagram-worthy underwater coral park, cultural revival events, a Futsal Fiesta, the Manta Festival, and a conservation initiative laying the groundwork for a Manta Centre. Cultural festivals, eco-tourism activities, and collaborations with local businesses will also spotlight sustainable tourism practices.

Visitors will have the opportunity to connect with the local community, explore marine life on guided tours, and take part in immersive activities like Maldivian cooking classes, traditional music performances, and island-hopping excursions.

Speaking at the event, Sameeh Ali, President of Dharavandhoo Council, said, “Visit Dharavandhoo Year 2025 celebrates our island’s unique culture and biodiversity with an emphasis on responsible tourism. We hope this campaign will attract travelers seeking unique experiences, while also supporting our local economy and environment, building a lasting foundation.”

Dharavandhoo Island’s dedication to sustainability and community-focused tourism allows visitors to experience the beauty of the Maldives while contributing to its preservation. Further updates will be shared through official channels, inviting both international and local travelers to participate in this special year.

Coco Collection, a prestigious luxury hospitality brand in the Maldives recognized for its personalized experiences, celebrated notable success at the 2024 World Luxury Hotel Awards, earning multiple accolades for its resorts Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu.

Founded in 2006, the World Luxury Hotel Awards are regarded as one of the top honors in the luxury hospitality sector, celebrating excellence based on recognition from both guests and industry professionals. Winners are selected through public voting across more than 100 categories, which highlight the outstanding achievements of luxury hotels worldwide.

Coco Bodu Hithi, a premier luxury resort in the Maldives, received several esteemed awards, including Best Luxury Beach Resort in the Maldives, Best Luxury Island Resort in the Indian Ocean, and Best Luxury Villa Resort – Global.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, known for its stunning natural beauty, was also highly commended, securing three awards: Best Luxury Cultural Resort, Best Luxury Eco Resort, and Best Luxury Sustainable Resort, all within the Indian Ocean region.

Ronalaine Fernandez, Assistant Director of Communications at Coco Collection, expressed appreciation for the recognition, stating, “It is a true honor to receive multiple accolades this year. At Coco Collection, we are dedicated to creating personalized experiences in the Maldives that resonate with our guests. With Coco Bodu Hithi and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, we take pride in being recognized for our commitment to sustainability and the unique, personalized service we deliver daily

Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal has requested legal advice from Attorney General Ahmed Usham to terminate agreements for 22 islands leased for resort development due to a complete lack of progress.

Speaking in parliament, Faisal revealed that a total of 58 islands have shown little to no development, with some remaining idle for up to 30 years. The government’s Economic Council has prepared a plan to engage with the entrepreneurs leasing these islands to understand the barriers to progress.

However, Faisal noted that 22 islands have seen no development at all, prompting the need for legal guidance to cancel these agreements and potentially re-lease the islands to more active developers.

In the past, attempts to cancel such agreements have led to legal challenges and compensation claims from lessees. To address this, amendments to the Tourism Act are being proposed and will soon be submitted to the People’s Majlis.

This initiative highlights the government’s dedication to ensuring timely development of leased islands to support the Maldives’ tourism sector and economic growth.