Category: Blog

On Monday, Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) signed an agreement with Beijing Urban Construction Group (BUCG) for the development of a monorail system linking Malé and K. Funadhoo.

The monorail will serve as a crucial element of the Special Economic and Financial Service Zone initiative.

Originally announced in May by Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed, the project will be funded by the UAE’s International Free Zone Authority (IFZA).

The signing ceremony, held on Monday, was attended by Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed, CEO and Managing Director of MACL, and Lu Wei, General Manager of BUCG, who signed on behalf of their respective organizations.

This monorail system will connect Hulhule airport island with Malé and Hulhumale, integrating with the Sinamale Bridge.

The development forms part of a larger Economic Zone Development Project, which includes the establishment of the West Side Commercial Hub and improved connectivity to the main airport.

As part of this initiative, the current seaplane terminal on Hulhule will be relocated to Funadhoo.

The project also includes plans for shopping centres, hotels, convention facilities, and entertainment venues.

President Mohamed Muizzu emphasized the significance of a connected public transport system, such as the monorail, in enhancing travel for passengers, customers, and employees throughout the region.

Dusit Thani Maldives is set to elevate its culinary offerings with the introduction of SALA, a new vegan restaurant featuring nutrient-dense, plant-based dishes crafted from premium, locally sourced ingredients, including produce from the resort’s own organic gardens.

SALA is a collaboration with Chef Celia Lam, co-leader of the Slow Food Community Bangkok and an instructor at The Food School, Thailand’s leading culinary academy associated with Dusit Hospitality Education. The restaurant will showcase a thoughtfully curated “plant-powered” menu, highlighting dishes such as Greek orzo salad, baked spiced pumpkin, and eggplant steak a la plancha, along with a variety of salads, soups, and mains.

Situated in a traditional Thai-style house with views of the turquoise waters of Baa Atoll, SALA embodies Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired hospitality. Its launch coincides with Dusit International’s Tree of Life sustainability initiative, which prioritizes environmental preservation, health, and well-being. By integrating organic, plant-based cuisine into its offerings, Dusit Thani Maldives reinforces its dedication to sustainability and wellness in the luxury travel sector.

SALA will open its doors on November 1, 2024. To celebrate the occasion, Chef Celia Lam will conduct exclusive masterclasses and interactive workshops from November 1-4, allowing guests to learn to prepare exceptional vegan dishes using fresh ingredients.

“This new organic restaurant emphasizes our commitment to promoting healthy, sustainable living while providing an outstanding dining experience,” said Jean-Louis Ripoche, Area General Manager, Maldives. “We are excited to have Chef Celia Lam on board, as her passion for sustainability aligns perfectly with our vision. We believe SALA will attract health-conscious travelers seeking a transformative dining experience.”

Nestled in the heart of the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives offers a serene escape that combines Thai-inspired luxury with Maldivian culture. Guests can partake in unique experiences, including interactions with vibrant marine life, world-class wellness at Devarana Wellness, fine dining, luxurious villas, and a wide range of activities amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the Maldives.

The Maldivian government has submitted a proposal to raise the taxes levied on passengers departing from Velana International Airport (VIA).

The amendments to the Airport Departure Tax Act will be presented to the parliament in its upcoming session starting Monday.

Key changes in the proposal include adjustments to the departure fees for various passenger categories:

• Foreign economy class passengers: fee increase from $30 to $50.
• No change for Maldivian economy class passengers.
• Business class passengers: fee increase from $60 to $120.
• First class passengers: fee increase from $90 to $240.
• Private jet passengers: fee increase from $120 to $480.

These changes are expected to take effect from December 2024.

The government anticipates that the tax increase will generate an additional MVR 1.6 billion in revenue. The primary goal is to enhance the country’s foreign reserves, as the collected taxes will be in U.S. dollars.

Milaidhoo Maldives has elevated its mixology experience through the introduction of the Chef’s Garden, where fresh, locally sourced ingredients enhance every cocktail. The private island resort’s mixologists now have direct access to a variety of herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables, allowing them to hand-pick the freshest ingredients for crafting and garnishing drinks. This farm-to-glass approach guarantees vibrant, fresh flavors, significantly improving the guest experience.

To celebrate the opening of the Chef’s Garden, the resort introduced the Garden Elixir, a signature cocktail created using Botanist Gin, known for its herbal and spice complexity, and freshly harvested garden herbs. The Garden Elixir offers a unique, aromatic experience, reflecting the essence of the Maldives.

The Chef’s Garden also serves as an interactive space for guests, offering them the opportunity to explore the garden, learn about local vegetation, and engage in cooking and cocktail-making classes led by chefs and mixologists. Guests can also enjoy private dining experiences in this serene setting.

Executive Chef Ken Gundu, who pioneered the Chef’s Garden, highlights the importance of growing local produce on the island to ensure fresh, sustainable dining. The initiative supports a healthier guest experience by using the freshest ingredients, reducing reliance on imported goods, and promoting sustainability.

Milaidhoo’s commitment to sustainability extends through this project, which helps reduce the resort’s carbon footprint by minimizing imported ingredients. This approach not only meets the resort’s food requirements but also showcases the island’s dedication to eco-conscious tourism. While Milaidhoo is renowned for its marine life, the Chef’s Garden initiative highlights the resort’s focus on sustainable luxury and culinary innovation, blending local agriculture with its hospitality offerings.

The Maldivian government is set to propose an amendment on Monday to increase the Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST) on tourists to 17% and double the green tax.

The amendments to the Tax Act will be presented in parliament on Monday.

The proposed changes include raising the TGST from 16% to 17%, effective June 2025.

Additionally, the green tax will be increased as follows:

• For guesthouses with fewer than 50 rooms: from $3 to $6 per night, per person.
• For resorts, city hotels, and tourist establishments with more than 50 rooms: from $6 to $12 per night, per person.

This increase in the green tax is planned to take effect from January 2025.

The government also intends to exempt children under the age of two, who are currently subject to the tax, from the green tax.

The purpose of these proposed tax increases is to enhance foreign exchange earnings and strengthen the Maldives’ foreign currency reserves.

The TGST was last raised from 8% to 16% in January 2023.

The Government of Maldives has made a notable advancement in marine conservation by issuing Regulation No. 2024/R-96, focused on improving whale shark interactions. This regulation, which is the seventh amendment to the Protected Species Regulation (2021/R-25), updates the existing Code of Conduct for the Protection and Conservation of Whale Sharks, initially introduced in 2009.

This new policy reinforces the Maldives’ dedication to marine life preservation by implementing strict guidelines that prioritize the safety of both tourists and whale sharks. Notable provisions include maintaining a minimum distance of three meters from the body and four meters from the tail of the whale sharks. It strictly prohibits any physical contact or holding onto the whale sharks while swimming alongside them. Interactions should be conducted calmly and quietly, avoiding any actions that could chase or block the whale sharks’ natural movements by staying to their sides.

Additionally, the regulation bans the feeding of whale sharks and restricts the use of flash photography, selfie sticks, or bright lights during encounters. Aerial photography guidelines require drones to be flown at least 30 meters above sea level and within the operator’s line of sight. A 250-meter contact zone around whale sharks allows no more than three vessels at a time, with a speed limit of five knots per hour, reducing to two knots within 50 meters of the whale shark. Emergency protocols are also outlined to ensure whale sharks remain undisturbed in their natural behaviors.

In case of encountering an injured or entangled whale shark, the regulation includes clear instructions, such as notifying the Environment Protection Agency and ensuring the whale shark’s safe release.

This regulation aims to enhance the experience for tourists engaging with whale sharks while also protecting the vital marine ecosystem that sustains these creatures. The Maldives continues to set a global example in marine conservation, ensuring that future generations can admire the beauty of these gentle giants.

Dusit Thani Maldives has been proudly featured in the prestigious November 2024 edition of Condé Nast Traveller as part of the renowned Readers’ Choice Awards.

Celebrated for its outstanding luxury, exceptional hospitality, and dedication to sustainability, Dusit Thani Maldives continues to exemplify world-class holiday experiences in the Maldives.

The Readers’ Choice Awards are among the most respected honors in the travel industry, where Condé Nast Traveller readers vote for the best in global travel. This recognition reinforces Dusit Thani Maldives as a destination that not only offers breathtaking beauty and luxury but also delivers meaningful and enriching experiences for its guests.

Jean-Louis Ripoche, General Manager of Dusit Thani Maldives, expressed his gratitude, stating that being featured in Condé Nast Traveller’s Readers’ Choice Awards is a tremendous honor and a reflection of the team’s hard work and dedication. He highlighted their commitment to creating unforgettable guest experiences and noted that this recognition from travelers around the world is extremely rewarding.

Situated in the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives offers a serene retreat that seamlessly blends Thai-inspired luxury with Maldivian culture. The resort provides guests with exclusive experiences, from encounters with vibrant marine life to world-class wellness at Devarana Wellness, gourmet dining, luxurious villas, and a range of activities amidst the Maldives’ stunning natural landscapes.

This November, Nova Maldives invites fans of Japanese cuisine to experience an exceptional dining adventure at Mizu, the resort’s intimate overwater teppanyaki restaurant. Nestled against the serene backdrop of the South Ari Atoll’s shimmering lagoons, guests will find themselves drawn into a refined dining experience, meticulously crafted by renowned Japanese chef Kazuki Arai.

From November 18th to 22nd, Mizu will transform as Chef Arai showcases exclusive set menus, each plate arriving with precision, paired perfectly with premium sake. The sound of soft sizzling fills the air, and guests will have the chance to watch as the chef works his magic at the grill. Beyond the meals, there’s an invitation to take part in a rare opportunity—bespoke cooking classes, led by Chef Arai himself, where participants will find their hands moving to mimic his expert techniques in the tranquil ambiance of Nova. Every plate, every movement in the kitchen promises to create an atmosphere where couples reconnect, surrounded by the endless turquoise expanse.

Chef Arai, recently embarking on a venture centered on seasonal ingredients from Gunma Prefecture, brings his passion for local flavors to life. His experience is woven into every dish, with the scent of freshly cooked bento boxes that celebrate the bond between farmers and diners. His commitment to sustainability breathes through each creation, presenting a journey that honors food, community, and Japanese culinary heritage.

As evening settles in, Mizu comes alive under the fading sunlight. The first bite tells a story—one of tradition, balance, and harmony, reflected in the way the freshest local ingredients meld together. Every sip of sake enhances the flavors, while the rhythmic rolling of waves adds a natural cadence to the evening.

The event’s menu, a testament to Japan’s seafood-rich cuisine, offers not just a meal, but an immersion into the art of Japanese cooking. Guests, with sleeves rolled and aprons tied, lean in as Chef Arai guides them through the delicate steps of his craft, showing them how to bring home world-class recipes and techniques.

Seating is limited, ensuring that each guest receives attentive care. Eyes meet across tables, hands brushing over shared plates as they relish this personalized, leisurely dining experience, one filled with intimate moments and unforgettable flavors.

Before the Mizu event, Nova Maldives will host another exquisite affair in collaboration with Maison Taittinger. Here, an elegant five-course dinner awaits, each course paired with the finest Taittinger Champagne vintages. As the first glass of Taittinger Brut Réserve is lifted, the sky glows with the setting sun, painting a golden hue over shellfish risotto and locally sourced fish. Each sip, each bite, becomes a part of the Maldivian sunset, wrapping the night in warmth and splendor.

Heritance Aarah Maldives, a premium all-inclusive resort in the Raa Atoll, has been honored as the Most Outstanding Culinary Organisation at the 2024 Food and Hospitality Asia Maldives Global Culinary Challenge and Exhibition (FHAM). This marks the resort’s second time earning this prestigious title. Competing against 65 other resorts, Heritance Aarah distinguished itself by securing 39 awards, including 14 Gold Awards and 10 special awards.

Among the notable recognitions, the resort excelled in categories such as Best Chef, Best Pastry Chef, Most Outstanding Artist, Plated Appetisers Winner, Plated Three-Course Meal Winner, and Creative Rice Dish Winner.

Renowned for its exceptional culinary offerings, Heritance Aarah provides guests with a diverse dining experience across seven unique restaurants and five lively bars. Visitors can savor world-class buffets and meticulously crafted meals prepared by award-winning chefs and Culinary Olympians, ensuring every meal is an unforgettable part of their Maldivian experience.

Each of the seven dining venues offers a distinct culinary journey. Ranba serves a variety of Asian and international dishes, while Ralu specializes in French and Italian cuisine. Ginifati focuses on fresh seafood and expertly grilled dishes, Baani presents innovative fusion cuisine, and Hathaa offers urban street food inspired by Tokyo. Ambula features contemporary Sri Lankan and Maldivian flavors, with an extensive vegan menu. The resort’s five bars offer a range of creative cocktails and premium spirits, with Bandhi Bar, the main pool bar, providing a laid-back atmosphere with shisha and pizza. Sky Bar offers breathtaking sunset views alongside classic and signature cocktails, while Falhu specializes in aged spirits and biodynamic wines. Ralu Lounge Bar boasts the region’s largest selection of rum and tiki cocktails.

Heritance Aarah also offers a premium selection of over 80 top-shelf spirits, 150 beverages, and a signature cocktail menu featuring more than 30 unique creations, ensuring a rich and varied dining experience.

Stasshani Jayawardena, Joint Deputy Chairperson and Joint Managing Director of Aitken Spence Hotel Holdings PLC, expressed her congratulations, stating, “I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the winners at FHAM 2024. Their outstanding achievements inspire us all. We invite guests to embark on a unique culinary journey in our peaceful barefoot paradise, where tradition seamlessly blends with innovation

After a period of decreased visits from Indian celebrities, the Maldives is once again experiencing a rise in high-profile visitors from the Indian entertainment industry. Prominent Bollywood stars and TV personalities are choosing the Maldives as their preferred holiday destination, with many celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions in the tropical paradise.

Bollywood celebrities, with their massive social media followings, play a significant role in promoting the Maldives’ tourism industry. India has always been a key market for the Maldives, and the renewed interest from Indian stars is a positive development for the sector.

Earlier this year, there was a noticeable decline in visits from Indian celebrities following a social media campaign in India calling for a boycott of the Maldives, sparked by political tensions between the two countries. The movement encouraged Indians to consider alternative destinations, such as Lakshadweep, for their vacations.

However, the situation has improved, with more Indian film stars returning to the Maldives in recent months, indicating a shift in sentiment and improved relations between the two nations.

India has also held roadshows in major cities to promote Maldivian tourism, further strengthening ties. Maldivian Tourism Minister Ibrahim Faisal emphasized the importance of the Indian market and highlighted ongoing efforts to attract more Indian tourists.

The return of Indian celebrities to the Maldives is expected to boost the tourism sector, with India ranked as the sixth-largest source of tourists, contributing nearly 90,000 visitors by the end of September.