Category: Blog

ourists visiting the Maldives will also be affected by a ban on the import and use of vaping devices, as announced by the Minister of Homeland Security, Ali Ihsan.

The government has declared a comprehensive ban on the import, usage, and distribution of all types of vaping devices, which will take effect in the coming months.

Starting from November 15, importing vaping devices and their components will be prohibited. Following this, from December 15, the use, possession, manufacture, sale, advertisement, and free distribution of vaping devices will also be banned.

During a press conference at the President’s Office on Tuesday, Ihsan confirmed that the ban extends to tourists entering the Maldives. He stated, “From November 15, if anyone attempts to bring vape devices into the Maldives, we will confiscate them at the border.” He further clarified that tourists will also be prohibited from using vape devices in the country from December 15 onwards.

When asked if there would be any exemptions for tourists, Ihsan mentioned that no special provisions under the law are planned.

“While some countries may grant tourists special exceptions, such as allowing alcohol in resorts, we have no intention of doing so for vaping devices,” he added.

Addressing multiple inquiries about the government’s decision, Ihsan emphasized the growing concerns over vaping among youth. He pointed out that vaping has been used as a way to introduce harmful substances to students, with reported cases of bullying linked to its use.

Ihsan also revealed that there have been instances where students were coerced by their peers into using vape devices, especially in schools. He noted that the Ministry of Education had confiscated thousands of vape devices from schools over the past year, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

Reethi Beach Resort has been honoured with the prestigious HolidayCheck 2024 Award, marking another significant achievement in its pursuit of delivering exceptional holiday experiences. This highly regarded accolade reflects the positive reviews, genuine recommendations, and continued support from its valued guests. As one of the most esteemed awards in the travel industry, it is entirely based on guest feedback, highlighting excellence in hospitality.

HolidayCheck, Europe’s leading hotel review platform, selects the winners of this award through authentic guest reviews and experiences. Receiving this recognition in 2024 reinforces Reethi Beach Resort’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences and exceeding guest expectations.

The resort extends its heartfelt appreciation to all guests for their trust and loyalty. Their positive feedback and appreciation of the service provided are a source of inspiration, encouraging the resort to continually elevate its hospitality standards. Reethi Beach Resort is proud to be part of guests’ travel memories and eagerly anticipates welcoming them back to its island paradise.

A special thanks is also extended to the resort’s dedicated team. Their passion, hard work, and attention to detail are key to making Reethi Beach Resort a distinguished destination. From maintaining pristine rooms to serving with genuine smiles and personalising every guest experience, the team’s efforts have made this award possible. They are the heart of the resort, and this recognition is a testament to their dedication.

This achievement further strengthens Reethi Beach Resort’s reputation as a premier destination in the Maldives, known not only for its stunning natural beauty but also for its commitment to sustainability, outstanding service, and guest satisfaction.

Dusit Thani Maldives has proudly announced its recognition in multiple esteemed categories at the 2024 World Luxury Awards. These awards underscore the resort’s dedication to delivering exceptional luxury, sustainability, and memorable guest experiences while consistently surpassing expectations.

Notable Awards for Dusit Thani Maldives:

• Luxury Family Hotel – Regional
• Luxury Sustainable Hotel – Regional
• Luxury Wedding Hotel – Continent

These accolades highlight the resort’s commitment to offering unparalleled family-friendly experiences, eco-conscious practices, and remarkable wedding celebrations, all set within the breathtaking Maldivian scenery.

Devarana Wellness at Dusit Thani Maldives also received distinguished recognition with awards for:

• Luxury Resort Spa – Continent
• Luxury Spa Resort – Regional
• Luxury Sustainable Spa – Continent

These honors reflect the outstanding wellness services at Devarana Wellness, where a combination of holistic well-being, sustainability, and luxury creates transformative spa experiences for guests.

Benjarong, the resort’s signature Thai restaurant, earned acclaim in the following categories:

• Health & Wellness Cuisine – Continent
• Luxury Resort Restaurant – Continent
• Thai Cuisine – Continent

These awards recognize Benjarong’s exceptional culinary achievements, offering health-conscious dining and the finest Thai cuisine for an unforgettable gastronomic journey.

Khun Jean-Louis, the Area General Manager for Maldives, expressed gratitude for these prestigious recognitions, thanking valued guests for their continued support and feedback. He also acknowledged the hard work and passion of the staff, whose dedication has made these achievements possible.

Dusit Thani Maldives remains fully committed to delivering the highest standards in hospitality, ensuring every guest experience is characterized by luxury, sustainability, and the warmth of Thai hospitality.

October 20 is International Chefs Day, celebrating the vital role chefs play in the culinary world. This year’s theme, “Growing Great Chefs,” highlights the need to develop future culinary talent. In the Maldives, where tourism drives the economy, chefs are central to delivering exceptional guest experiences. From crafting gourmet dishes at luxury resorts to promoting sustainability, chefs play a pivotal role in the Maldives’ thriving hospitality industry.

Food has become a key part of the Maldivian tourism experience. Visitors not only seek beautiful scenery but also memorable culinary adventures. Maldivian resorts offer diverse dining experiences, ranging from European fine dining to authentic local flavors, thanks to the creative efforts of chefs. Local cuisine, featuring tropical ingredients and fresh seafood, is increasingly popular among tourists, with dishes like mas-huni, garudhiya, and fihunu-mas offering a taste of the islands’ culture.

However, a shortage of local chefs limits the availability of authentic Maldivian culinary experiences in resorts, as international chefs often dominate resort kitchens. Addressing this gap presents an exciting opportunity for Maldivians to showcase their heritage through food.

The demand for local dishes is growing, but more local chefs are needed to meet this demand. Despite the rise in interest, a shortage of culinary training opportunities and limited participation of Maldivians in professional kitchens remain challenges. To cultivate local talent, investment in education, formal culinary training, and internships is essential.

Some resorts have started offering training programs to help young chefs develop skills, promoting culinary careers as prestigious options. By focusing on nurturing local chefs, the Maldives can ensure its cuisine evolves and continues to attract global travelers. Investing in local culinary talent is key to maintaining the country’s luxury destination status and preserving its cultural identity.

Ifuru Island Maldives has announced the launch of its second season for the first-ever skydiving drop zone in the Maldives, offering an exciting adventure for thrill-seekers and tourists. In partnership with Skydive Wasaga Beach and Skydive Maldives, this unique program is set to commence in December 2024 and will run year-round, giving visitors the chance to experience tandem jumps over the breathtaking Maldivian landscape.

The skydiving program is led by Leslie Farkas, an accomplished skydiver with over 15 years of experience and more than 6,000 jumps, over 5,000 of which have been tandem. Leslie holds multiple instructional certifications, including Coach 1 and 2, Ground Control Instructor, and Skydive School Examiner, ensuring the highest levels of safety and professionalism. Along with his extensive skydiving expertise, Leslie has held leadership roles in marketing and aircraft maintenance at Skydive Wasaga Beach.

Joining Leslie is an elite team of skydiving professionals. Dominic Lachance, the Master Rigger, has an impressive track record of over 47,000 main pack jobs and holds various military certifications. Alec Thibeault, a Tandem Instructor with more than 19 years of experience and over 9,554 tandem jumps, is known for his safety-focused approach. Mathew Vinnels, with ten years of experience in manifest operations, brings excellence in customer service and weather assessment, ensuring a seamless experience for guests. Darko Tupec will serve as the dedicated Elevator Pilot, responsible for ensuring safe and efficient aerial operations.

This season, Ifuru Island Maldives will exclusively offer tandem skydives, providing visitors with an unforgettable experience of freefalling from stunning altitudes. Prices start at $699, plus 8% GST, with the first jumps scheduled for December 15, 2024, offering unparalleled views of the Maldives’ pristine waters and idyllic islands.

Since its opening in September 2023, Ifuru Island Maldives has provided 147 sunset suites and villas, along with six dining options, including two signature restaurants and four bars, as part of a 24-hour premium All-Inclusive experience. It is also home to the Maldives’ first permanent skydiving drop zone.

Heritance Aarah Maldives has unveiled an exciting partnership with Bologna Football Club 1909, a renowned professional football team from Italy’s Serie A, which also competes in the Champions League. This marks a milestone, being the first time a Maldivian resort has partnered with a Serie A team, establishing a new standard for the fusion of luxury hospitality and professional sports.

This collaboration highlights Heritance Aarah’s commitment to providing unique experiences for its guests and sports fans. The partnership will offer exclusive opportunities for fan engagement, combining the excitement of Serie A football with the serene luxury of a world-class resort.

Through this alliance, Heritance Aarah seeks to connect with Bologna FC’s fanbase and the wider football community, showcasing the harmony between the club’s athletic success and the peaceful, luxurious ambiance of the Maldives. The resort, famous for its stunning villas, personalized butler services, all-day dining across top-tier restaurants, and extensive water sports facilities, offers an ideal escape for guests looking to relax while staying connected to the world of sports. Situated in the beautiful Raa Atoll, Heritance Aarah is also the first Maldivian resort to earn LEED Gold certification, emphasizing its commitment to sustainability.

Bologna FC, with its rich legacy and strong standing in Italian football, is deeply rooted in both national and international football culture. The club’s prominent presence in Serie A and the Champions League makes this collaboration a perfect fit for Heritance Aarah’s global reputation for hospitality excellence.

This partnership opens exciting new possibilities for both sports fans and luxury travelers, offering a blend of the best aspects of both worlds for an unforgettable experience.

With just three days left to vote in the World Travel Awards (WTA) 2024, the Maldives is encouraging travelers, industry professionals, and both local and global communities to support its prominent role in the global tourism industry. The Maldives has been nominated for six prestigious WTA categories, including the coveted title of World’s Leading Destination 2024. Additionally, the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) is in the running for World’s Leading Tourist Board 2024.

Voting remains open until October 20, 2024, and your support can play a pivotal role in helping the Maldives secure these esteemed accolades. By voting, individuals are not only acknowledging the Maldives’ remarkable achievements but also contributing to its continued growth and recognition as a premier travel destination.

To cast your vote for the Maldives, please use the following links:

• World’s Leading Destination 2024
• World’s Leading Green Destination 2024
• World’s Leading Dive Destination 2024
• World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination 2024
• World’s Leading Beach Destination 2024
• World’s Leading Tourist Board 2024 – Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation

The Coca-Cola Foundation and its partners have announced the export of a container of baled post-consumer Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) plastic from Male, as part of the Sustainable Island Waste Management and Plastic Recycling Initiative.

Aligned with World Cleanup Day 2024, the event also included the handover of TCCF-funded infrastructure, such as pickups and balers, to the government-owned Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO).

This initiative, funded by The Coca-Cola Foundation (TCCF), is a joint effort between the Maldives Ocean Plastics Alliance (MOPA) and WAMCO, aimed at improving PET collection and addressing plastic waste in the Maldives.

The project will export baled PET to Malaysia and China for recycling. While PET bottles were exported in the past, baling the waste enhances storage and transportation efficiency, marking a significant improvement in the process.

The primary goal of the TCCF-funded Island PET Collection Project is to establish a nationwide plastic recycling solution by building the necessary infrastructure and systems.

Currently, most waste in the Maldives is either disposed of or incinerated on K. Thilafushi industrial island. This project represents a shift towards more sustainable waste management practices.

The initiative focuses on expanding PET collection systems beyond Greater Male’, improving collection efficiency across the country until local recycling capacity is developed.

MOPA President Ahmed Maumoon commented, “This project is a pivotal moment in the Maldives’ fight against plastic waste. By educating communities and partnering with national organizations like WAMCO, we are enhancing today’s waste management while laying the foundation for long-term environmental sustainability.”

In collaboration with WAMCO, MOPA has rolled out community education programs and ensured that the TCCF-funded infrastructure, such as compactors and pickups, is effectively utilized across Greater Male’ and other islands.

WAMCO Managing Director Mujthaba Jaleel stated, “This initiative is a critical step toward improving plastic waste management and advancing recycling efforts in the Maldives. By providing islands with the necessary tools and infrastructure to collect and process PET waste, we are not only addressing the current plastic pollution problem but also building a foundation for a more sustainable future.”

WAMCO plays a crucial role in overseeing PET waste collection operations, ensuring the efficient handling of baling and export processes.

Carlos Pagoaga, President of The Coca-Cola Foundation, added, “Our commitment to this project extends beyond waste collection. By supporting MOPA and WAMCO, we aim to foster sustainability in the Maldives and contribute to the development of a circular economy

Niyama Private Islands Maldives has once again been recognized for its distinctiveness, exclusivity, and relaxed luxury, earning a spot as one of the ‘Best Resorts in the Indian Ocean’ at this year’s Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.

Nestled in the breathtaking beauty of the Maldives, Niyama Private Islands offers a captivating and unique blend of luxury and adventure. Beyond its top-tier accommodations, dining, and spa experiences, the resort provides an otherworldly escape across its twin islands, Chill and Play. Guests can create their own extraordinary experiences, from treetop adventures and underwater parties to ocean thrills like Seabob rides, jetpacking, and surfing.

This award highlights Niyama’s dedication to creating unforgettable experiences through personalized services and thoughtful touches that consistently surpass the expectations of even the most discerning travelers.

General Manager Hafidh Al Busaidy expressed the team’s gratitude, saying, “We are truly honored to receive this recognition from the esteemed readers of Condé Nast Traveler. It reflects our relentless pursuit of excellence and our commitment to offering uniquely crafted experiences to our guests. We thank the readers, our guests, partners, and the Niyama family for their unwavering support, and we promise to continue enhancing every stay, making each one even more memorable than the last.

The Maldivian government has introduced a bill seeking to amend the Tourism Act by eliminating the requirement for the President’s Office to approve the leasing of islands, land, and lagoons for tourism development.

The bill, presented by PNC MP Musthafa Hussein on behalf of the government, was read for the first time in Parliament on Monday, with a debate scheduled for Tuesday.

Currently, the Tourism Act requires approval from the President’s Office for allocating islands, land, and lagoons for tourism. This requirement was introduced through an amendment on July 10, 2016, under Article 5(r)(3).

The proposed amendment aims to remove this approval process, allowing allocations to proceed without the President’s Office’s involvement if the bill is passed.

Under the current law, the tourism ministry must publish a list of islands, land, and lagoons designated for tourism in coordination with the President’s Office, with any changes requiring presidential approval. The new amendment would instead mandate direct consultation with the president.

Furthermore, the bill proposes an increase in the green tax for tourists starting next year. The tax for guesthouses with fewer than 50 rooms would rise from $3 to $6 per day, while the tax for resorts, city hotels, and larger establishments would increase from $6 to $12 per day.