News
Rebranded and refurbished The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi opens its doors

Maldives.net.mv – The re-launch of The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi takes place today (21st February 2014) – in the presence of His Excellency President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom – as the first and flagship branded property of the NEW Sun Siyam Resorts.
The brainchild of leading local entrepreneur, Hon. Ahmed Siyam Mohamed, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi re-launch marks the rebirth and elevation of Mr. Siyam’s tourism ventures from Maldivian Travel Company to international luxury brand. The new-look Iru Fushi is the first ‘The Sun Siyam’ property, the premier brand of Sun Siyam Resorts that also includes the boutique ‘Beach House Collection’ and the cool, quirky ‘Sun Ray’ brands together with five further luxury resort openings planned, across three countries, in the next few years – all seeking to offer something exceptional that challenges current perceptions of luxury in the travel industry.
A paradise beach resort located in the Noonu Atoll Maldives, The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi features 221 luxury ocean-front villas, including 70 over-water bungalows, 11 bar and restaurant choices, a 20-room tropical spa, and range of activities and local explorations. The resort is committed to offering boutique service on a grand scale, balancing exceptional facilities and heartfelt service with a wider dedicated focus on the surrounding community.
All ‘Villa’ guests can now personally tailor their accommodation with the introduction of pillow and fragrance menus for a home-away-from-home feel; while ‘Retreat’ accommodation guests receive the added benefit of a foot massage on arrival and services of a 24-hour butler. The Spa has enhanced its offering to include traditional Chinese medicine and Maldivian treatments; opened a Spa Café serving healthy cuisine and designed a foot reflexology path. For the discerning traveller looking for villa privacy, the resort has launched 22 new Deluxe Beach Villas with private pools (total compliment now 44). The food and beverage menus have seen the introduction of new dining experiences that include an ice-cream parlour and ‘destination dining’ options. The resort is also now home to a dedicated family dining area.
The Sun Siyam Community
The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Maldives is also a symbolic property for Mr. Siyam, given its location in the Noonu Atoll, his childhood home. Celebrating and honouring his roots, the resort is deeply committed to enhancing the lives of Maldivians. In addition to contributing a portion of net revenue to local preschools, the resort’s GIVE philosophy (Get Involved, Visionary Experiences) enables guests to explore the local community and experience its intrinsic relationship to the resort: from visiting a local fruit farm to hearing first-hand the origins of a local village grandmother’s recipe used in the restaurants’ kitchens.
Alongside an inspiring selection of local projects, the resorts ‘Exploration and Discovery’ activities take advantage of the surrounding natural beauty and rich culture, ensuring guests come away feeling like they have had a true Maldivian experience: from kids’ club cooking classes focused on regional dishes to a plethora of sustainable water-based activities.
The Sun Siyam Journey
From humble beginnings to becoming the Maldives’ leading entrepreneur, Mr Siyam began his career working his way up the ranks in hotels around the country. His first solo venture was the launch of a now very successful tour operating business, Sun Travels. Today, alongside managing an award-winning portfolio of tourism products, Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort, Vilu Reef Beach & Spa, Beach House Iruveli and Beach House Pasikudah opening in Sri Lanka in 2014, under the new Sun Siyam brand, he is also an Executive Board Member of the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry.
News
Taste of culture, craft: JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort introduces immersive Indian Ocean nights

Cradled between infinite blue skies and the opalescent waters of the Indian Ocean, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort invites guests to discover a new chapter in its evolving story of cultural immersion and sensory indulgence. Every Wednesday, the resort debuts Indian Ocean Night—a weekly celebration designed to honor the culinary heritage and artistic traditions of the Maldives and its coastal neighbors. Hosted at Veyo, the resort’s international dining venue where panoramic ocean views awaken the senses, this new offering brings together flavors, rhythms, and craftsmanship in a richly layered experience that deepens the connection between guest and destination.
At the heart of Indian Ocean Night is “Whispers of the Indian Ocean,” a specially curated menu that takes guests on a culinary journey across the region’s coastal cultures. From local small bites like Bis Keemiya—a Maldivian take on the classic samosa—and Havaadhulee Bis, delicate steamed tuna dumplings, to deeply spiced favorites such as Maldivian Chicken Curry and Alleppey Prawn Curry, the experience is a visual feast and a celebration of culinary delights, prepared with thoughtfully sourced ingredients that honor the island’s rich culinary traditions. Live grill stations fill the air with the aroma of open-fire cooking, while Maldivian Bodu Beru performances and live singing create a festive, soulful ambiance under the stars.
Cultural discovery continues beyond the plate, as the resort brings guests closer to one of the Maldives’ oldest and most revered art forms: Liyelaa Jehun, or traditional lacquer work. In partnership with a local artisan from Thulhaadhoo Island—one of the few islands where this intricate craft still thrives—guests are invited to witness a living tradition. With each brushstroke and carved detail, the artisan showcases a time-honored practice passed down through generations. Guests can also take part in guided workshops, trying their hand at the meditative and meticulous process, gaining a newfound appreciation for the skill and symbolism behind every piece.
For those inspired by the flavors of the evening, the resort’s culinary immersion continues with a hands-on cooking workshop led by a Maldivian chef. Guests learn how to recreate beloved dishes such as Mas Huni—a traditional tuna and coconut breakfast staple—and Fiyala Curry, known for its fragrant spice blend and coastal warmth. Held at Pure, the resort’s beachfront open kitchen and destination dining venue, the setting is as inspiring as the flavors themselves—where ocean views, warm island breezes, and interactive culinary moments come together in perfect harmony. Through storytelling and shared preparation, this cooking workshop presents a taste of local cuisine alongside a deeper understanding of the cultural significance behind each recipe.
At JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort, these experiences serve as invitations to connect, to learn, and to savor. Whether through the rhythm of a drum, the intricacy of handcrafted Maldivian lacquer art, or the first bite of a dish passed down through generations, guests are immersed in a journey that celebrates the richness of Maldivian life—infused with the warmth, wonder, and soul that define the island spirit.
Just 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the resort is designed for indulgence and reconnection. Its 80 thoughtfully crafted private pool villas blend eco-conscious design with uninterrupted ocean views, expansive terraces, and direct lagoon access—offering the perfect setting to unwind, reflect, and savor the beauty of the Maldives at every turn.
Entertainment
The Presets to ignite nights in exclusive Kandooma Maldives showcase in April 2026

Imagine your favourite music festival—but swap muddy fields for white sands, palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. In April 2026, acclaimed electronic duo The Presets will trade stadiums and festival crowds for an exclusive beachfront series of shows at Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, offering fans an intimate, once-in-a-lifetime island escape curated by Music in Paradise.
From Coachella to Splendour in the Grass, The Presets—Julian Hamilton and Kim Moyes—have made their mark on the global stage. But this time, they’re doing things differently. From 11–18 April 2026, fans will experience a week of sun-drenched luxury capped off by three electrifying live performances, including a sunset DJ set on the beach and an exclusive rooftop party at the resort’s Sunset Bar.
“We’re beyond excited to host The Presets at Kandooma,” said Mark Eletr, General Manager of Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives. “Their energy, talent, and incredible live shows are a perfect match for our vibrant island setting. Guests can expect something truly unforgettable.”
With a career spanning two decades, The Presets are electronic music royalty in Australia. Their breakout 2008 album Apocalypso went triple platinum and produced the festival anthem “My People.” With multiple ARIA Awards, APRA Songwriter of the Year titles, and collaborations like the RAKA EP with Golden Features under their belt, the duo continues to shape the sound of electronic music worldwide.
Their 2018 album HI VIZ soared to the top of iTunes within hours of release and included hits like “Do What You Want” and “Martini,” both nominated for major Australian music prizes.
Fans can now secure the Early Bird Gold Experience Package for A$3,790 per person (twin share) for seven nights in a Beach Villa—saving over $1,000. This VIP experience includes:
- Entry to 3 Nightly Exclusive Events
- 3 Intimate Performances
- Meet & Greet with artists
- Professional Photo with artists
- Music in Paradise Welcome Bag
- Music in Paradise Event Poster
- Event commemorative t-shirt
- Return shared Speedboat airport transfers
- Welcome drink and cold towel on arrival
- Delicious buffet breakfast daily at Kandooma Café
- Tea, coffee & bottled water in-villa, and replenished daily
- Complimentary snorkel trip & use of snorkelling gear
- Music in Paradise Traveller Care Guarantee
Additional packages offering different villa types are also available exclusively from Music in Paradise here. All packages exclude airfares.
News
Embudu Village achieves Travelife Gold certification for sustainability

Embudu Village, one of Maldives’ most cherished island resorts, has been awarded the Travelife Gold Certification, a globally recognised mark of excellence in sustainable tourism. The certification encompasses a resort’s environmental footprint, impact in the community, as well as labour standards, and the protection of biodiversity.
Embudu Village previously held the Travelife Silver Certification. Following a recent evaluation, though, the resort successfully met Travelife’s comprehensive criteria for Gold Certification. This accomplishment reflects Embudu’s ongoing commitment to sustainable tourism practices.
Travelife, a leading international sustainability certification body for hotels and resorts, evaluates properties against a strict checklist. Certification is awarded after an in-depth, on-site audit conducted by an independent auditor. The findings undergo a comprehensive quality assurance review before Travelife confers certification status.
Expressing his gratitude in receiving the certification, Ramsay Perera, General Manager of Kaimoo Resorts, said: “Our team is thrilled to be recognised with the Travelife Gold Certification. This reflects our longstanding commitment to sustainable tourism and protecting the natural beauty of Maldives.”
As one of the Maldives’ pioneering resorts, Embudu continues to lead by example, proving that authentic island hospitality can go hand in hand with sustainable practices. With the Travelife Gold Certification, Embudu Village strengthens its promise to offer guests a meaningful holiday experience in the heart of the Maldives.
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