News — Oct 30, 2024

Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives) is thrilled to announce a nationwide competition to design landmarks to be installed in iconic locations including Velana International Airport, Male’ City, underwater locations, and other islands of the Maldives outside of the Greater Male’ area. This exciting initiative aims to showcase Maldives’ unique charm, local artistic talents, and further enhance the tourist experience in the Sunny Side of Life. The competition is open to all Maldivian citizens above the age of 18, encouraging widespread participation. Participants are invited to express their creativity and their unique sense of national pride to submit designs for landmarks that embody the essence of the Maldives, reflecting the rich heritage, culture, and stunning natural beauty of that specific region. The top 10 designs will be chosen through a combination of evaluations by a panel of technical judges and a public vote. Each winner will receive a cash prize of MVR 20,000 and a gift package courtesy of the competition's sponsors. Additionally, all top 10 designs will be showcased and utilised in MMPRC's marketing activities, with proper credit given to the designers. Designs should be crafted in a sustainable way, with a maximum height of 20 feet. Each landmark should represent the specific island or area it's designated for, incorporating historical context, local activities, and unique characteristics. Creativity, safety, longevity, and visual appeal are key considerations for the judging panel. Competition entries must be submitted through email by 6:00 PM on November 30, 2024, to contest@visitmaldives.com. Each participant can submit a design for one landmark, with clear dimensions specified in both CAD and PDF formats. Additionally, a visual representation of the proposed location (optional) and a completed application form (compulsory) with a copy of a valid National ID are required for successful entry. For further inquiries, please send them to contest@visitmaldives.com. Visit Maldives aims to showcase a wealth of artistic talent within the Maldives through this landmark design competition. The winning designs will not only beautify the islands but also serve as symbols of Maldivian creativity and cultural heritage, further captivating tourists and strengthening the brand of Sunny Side of Life in the global tourism arena.

News — Oct 30, 2024

MALDIVES, 27 October 2024 - Villa Haven has announced key appointments to its leadership team. The resort welcomes Ahmed Sinan as Director of Human Resources, Hamzath Abdulla as Director of Food & Beverage, Parana Vithanage Nishantha as Director of Culinary, Mohamed Hussain as Executive Housekeeper, and Shahid Ibrahim as Guest Service Manager. These appointments coincide with Villa Resorts' entry into a new market with Villa Haven, where the resort aims to establish ambitious standards in luxury hospitality. Each leader contributes extensive experience and a collective commitment to providing exceptional service and creating memorable experiences for all guests. Ahmed Sinan, Director of Human Resources Ahmed Sinan joins Villa Haven as Director of Human Resources, bringing valuable insight from his previous roles at Villa Nautica and Six Senses Laamu. Sinan’s expertise in talent management will play a crucial role in building a strong, motivated team that aligns with the resort’s high standards for service. Hamzath Abdulla, Director of Food & Beverage Hamzath Abdulla steps in as Director of Food & Beverage after serving as Director at Raffles Maldives. With over a decade of experience in luxury resorts such as One & Only, Anantara and Four Seasons in New Hampshire, Hamzath is focused on enhancing the guest dining experience, crafting menus, and leading a team that prioritizes customer satisfaction. Parana Vithanage Nishantha, Director of Culinary As Director of Culinary, Parana Vithanage Nishantha contributes over 40 years of culinary expertise, including leading award-winning teams at Ritz Carlton, One & Only Reethi Rah and Huvafen Fushi. Nishantha is dedicated to setting high culinary standards and delivering unique dining experiences that celebrate local ingredients and flavors. Mohamed Hussain, Executive Housekeeper Mohamed Hussain brings 20 years of experience in luxury hospitality to his role as Executive Housekeeper. His background at St. Regis Maldives and W Maldives has equipped him with a keen eye for detail and a commitment to maintaining exemplary standards in housekeeping, ensuring that all guest accommodations reflect the resort’s luxury brand. Shahid Ibrahim, Guest Service Manager Shahid Ibrahim, the new Guest Service Manager, has a strong history in enhancing guest experiences, having worked at Fairmont Maldives and Viceroy Maldives. His extensive background in customer service will help establish a welcoming environment for guests, ensuring that every stay at Villa Haven is memorable. Together, this leadership team is poised to drive Villa Haven's vision of excellence in luxury hospitality, reflecting the high standards the resort aims to deliver in the marketplace. Set to open later this November, Villa Haven will feature 73 stunning sea-facing villas and residences, each with private pools, promising an intimate and secluded island experience. The resort will showcase the natural beauty of the Maldivian landscape through sustainable materials and indigenous craftsmanship, ensuring a distinctive experience for all guests.

Resorts — Oct 26, 2024

Robinson Maldives Robinson Maldives is an exquisite resort situated about a 60-minute seaplane ride from Velana International Airport. This tropical paradise is perfect for Muslim couples seeking romance and adventure in a private setting. The resort offers candlelit beach dinners and private excursions to uninhabited islands, ensuring an intimate experience. With standalone bungalows surrounded by lush vegetation, guests can enjoy unparalleled privacy. Halal food is readily available, with specially curated menus featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies, allowing couples to savor delightful meals without compromising their dietary practices. Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat Drift Thelu Veliga Retreat is a charming resort located just a 40-minute seaplane journey from Velana International Airport. This boutique retreat emphasizes a romantic atmosphere, featuring private villas set amidst pristine beaches and turquoise waters. Couples can indulge in personalized dining experiences, such as sunset picnics or private candlelit dinners, tailored to Muslim preferences. Privacy is paramount, with each villa offering secluded outdoor spaces. The resort is dedicated to providing halal meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring a delightful culinary experience while respecting the dietary needs of its guests. Biyaadhoo Island Resort Biyaadhoo Island Resort is a picturesque destination located approximately 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. Known for its lush greenery and vibrant marine life, the resort is ideal for Muslim couples looking for a tranquil escape. Biyaadhoo offers romantic beachside dining experiences and special arrangements for private sunset cruises. The resort’s layout promotes privacy, with cozy rooms surrounded by tropical foliage. Halal dining is a priority, with chefs preparing meals that cater to Muslim guests, ensuring that all offerings comply with halal standards. Gangehi Island Resort Gangehi Island Resort, accessible in about 25 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport, is a haven for couples seeking romance and seclusion. The resort’s serene atmosphere is complemented by exclusive amenities, including private beach cabanas and intimate candlelit dinners on the sand. Couples can enjoy the stunning views in privacy, thanks to spacious accommodations that are thoughtfully designed. The resort’s restaurant specializes in halal cuisine, offering an array of dishes crafted from fresh ingredients, allowing Muslim guests to enjoy a variety of flavors without concerns. NAKAI Maayafushi Resort NAKAI Maayafushi Resort is situated a mere 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, making it easily accessible for a romantic getaway. This resort is perfect for couples looking for a combination of adventure and relaxation. Romantic options include private candlelight dinners on the beach and excursions for dolphin watching or sunset cruises. The resort emphasizes privacy, with spacious, elegantly furnished villas designed for comfort. All food served at the resort is halal, with a diverse menu that highlights local flavors and fresh ingredients, ensuring Muslim guests can indulge without worry.