News
Sol Kerzner steps down from Kerzner International

Maldives.net.mv – Legendary hotelier Solomon ‘Sol’ Kerzner has announced his retirement as the chairman of Kerzner International Holdings. The move brings to a close one of the most dazzling careers in hospitality industry, with Kerzner top of the sector for decades.
The news came after Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD) confirmed it had completed the purchase of a “significant” equity interest in the leading international Kerzner International. ICD is an investment arm of the Dubai government.
The chief executive of ICD, HE Mohammed Al Shaibani, will take on the role of chairman of the hotel operator, replacing Kerzner, while chief executive Alan Leibman will stay in position.
Kerzner, who founded the company in 1994, said: “I am exceptionally proud of all that has been accomplished at Kerzner International.
“This is a significant milestone in my life after a long and happy career in the tourism industry and I wish the company well.
“I am confident that with ICD’s guidance, the company will fulfil on its upcoming expansions towards further growth and global reach.”
With a career spanning more than 45 years, Kerzner, now 78, remains one of South Africa’s most admired entrepreneurs. He was born in Johannesburg and went on to build a hotel industry in South Africa that remains a testimony to his ability to turn grand visions into reality.
As the youngest of four children of Russian Jewish immigrants, his family started a hotel chain and, after graduating as a Chartered Accountant, Kerzner took over the running of the group and went on to create the most successful hotel group in South Africa, Sun International.
He later moved and expanded as a hotelier overseas with Kerzner International, which included the Atlantis resort in the Bahamas and the One&Only properties around the world, including Cape Town.
Kerzner International Holdings presently operates globally under the world-renowned One&Only and Atlantis brands, with international presence, significantly in Dubai with three resorts, two resorts in The Bahamas, and more in Mauritius, The Maldives, Mexico, South Africa and soon, Australia.
Kerzner arrived Maldives in 2001 and opened One&Only Kanuhura. They also built One&Only Reethi Rah, Maldives in 2005 and still known as one of the top resorts in the world.
This new strategic move by ICD in the hotel and tourism sector in Dubai follows its acquisition earlier this year of Atlantis, The Palm resort. New projects under development include the new Atlantis resort in China, and four new One&Only resorts currently under development around the globe.
During his career Kerzner worked closely with his late son Butch, who shared his love of the hospitality industry until his tragic death in a helicopter accident in the Dominican Republic in 2006.
During their visit to South Africa in 2003 they announced their intention, as a company and a family, to make a sizeable donation towards the building of the new School of Tourism & Hospitality at the University of Johannesburg, which opened in 2005.
Awards
Lily Beach Resort & Spa wins Leading F&B Resort at South Asian Travel Awards 2025

Lily Beach Resort & Spa has been recognised as the Leading F&B Resort at the South Asian Travel Awards 2025, held in Colombo. The accolade reinforces the resort’s position as a destination where culinary excellence is at the heart of every guest experience.
Central to the resort’s success is its renowned Platinum All-Inclusive Plan, a comprehensive concept that offers guests access to a range of premium experiences. The plan includes à la carte dining across several speciality restaurants, unlimited premium wines and spirits, French Champagne such as Taittinger, themed buffets, private dining experiences, and selected excursions. Designed to elevate each stay, it allows guests to indulge fully without additional charges.
Lily Beach offers an array of distinctive restaurants and bars:
- Lily Maa, the main restaurant, features extensive buffets and live cooking stations.
- Tamarind presents refined Indian-Thai fusion cuisine in an elegant overwater setting.
- AQVA serves light fare and cocktails in a relaxed beachfront atmosphere.
- Teppanyaki delivers interactive Japanese dining, combining artistry and theatre.
- Les Turquoise d’Aqua provides a fine dining experience under the stars.
- The Spirit Bar, set beside the ocean, offers a tranquil space for sundowners and late-night drinks.
- Vibes combines a family-friendly pool, games area, and evening entertainment.
The resort’s culinary achievements have earned it continued recognition. In 2024, Lily Beach received the Wine Spectator Award for its exceptional wine cellar and sommelier programme, further affirming its place among the world’s leading resort dining destinations.
General Manager Laurent Driole expressed pride in the achievement, noting: “This award is a tribute to the vision, dedication, and artistry of our F&B team. Every menu, drink, and moment is crafted to delight, and to offer our guests a culinary journey as exceptional as the Maldives itself.”
The award for Leading Food & Beverage Resort is seen as a reflection of the passion and commitment of Lily Beach’s entire culinary team. Under the leadership of Executive Chef Alessio Biondi and F&B Director Adam Shareef, dishes are prepared using the finest ingredients sourced globally, ensuring guests enjoy the highest standards of quality. Their commitment to creativity and innovation means that every visit offers something new—both for first-time guests and returning visitors.
Equally vital to this success are the service teams who bring warmth and personality to each dining experience. Their genuine care and hospitality create a relaxed, homely atmosphere that embodies the essence of Lily Beach—a place where guests feel welcomed as part of a community.
With this latest recognition, Lily Beach continues to define the all-inclusive luxury segment in the Maldives, combining world-class gastronomy, seamless inclusions, and authentic Maldivian hospitality to deliver experiences that remain both refined and heartfelt.
Awards
Readers’ favourites: Anantara Kihavah, Niyama Private Islands earn top honours in Condé Nast Traveler 2025 Awards

Two Minor Hotels’ Maldivian resorts — Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas and Niyama Private Islands Maldives — have been recognised among the best in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, one of the travel industry’s most respected accolades.
The two resorts, both under Minor Hotels’ luxury Anantara brand portfolio, were featured in the Indian Ocean category of this year’s awards. Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas was ranked No. 9 by readers of Condé Nast Traveller UK, while Niyama Private Islands Maldives secured the No. 10 spot in Condé Nast Traveler US.
These rankings reaffirm the enduring appeal of Minor Hotels’ Maldivian portfolio, celebrated for combining exceptional natural settings with world-class hospitality and distinctive guest experiences.
Located in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas offers a blend of barefoot luxury and marine discovery. The resort is renowned for its award-winning underwater restaurant, SEA, and a diverse collection of private pool villas surrounded by one of the archipelago’s most vibrant house reefs.
Meanwhile, Niyama Private Islands Maldives, set across twin islands Play and Chill in Dhaalu Atoll, continues to define laid-back luxury in the Indian Ocean. Known for its pioneering underwater club Subsix, family-friendly vibe, and innovative wellness and dining concepts, the resort offers an experience where adventure meets serenity.
“These accolades reflect the passion and dedication of our teams across the Maldives,” said Dillip Rajakarier, Group CEO of Minor International, the parent company of Minor Hotels. “We are proud to see our Maldivian resorts recognised by travellers from around the world, reaffirming their status among the most desirable island destinations globally.”
The 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards highlight Minor Hotels’ growing global presence, with a total of 45 accolades across its Anantara, Avani, NH Collection, and Elewana brands — the group’s strongest performance to date.
News
Villa Park invites travellers to enjoy up to 20% off Maldivian escapes

Villa Park invites travellers to experience the warmth and wonder of the Maldives this winter with its Winter Escape Offer, giving guests up to 20% off stays. Set in the South Ari Atoll, one of the country’s largest natural islands, Villa Park blends adventure, relaxation, and genuine Maldivian hospitality across a lush landscape surrounded by turquoise lagoons.
Guests can choose from family beach villas, beach pool villas, and water villas, each designed to capture the island’s light and tranquillity. The highlight of the resort’s collection is the Two-Bedroom Beach Pool House, the largest residence on the island, featuring a private pool, ocean views, and direct beach access. It is the ideal choice for families or friends seeking space, privacy, and comfort.
Recognised as one of the Best Family Resorts in the Maldives by the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards 2025, Villa Park is home to the Park Players Kids Club, the largest in the Maldives. The club offers creative workshops, outdoor adventures, and engaging activities that inspire imagination and connection for children of all ages.
Days at Villa Park are filled with discovery, from whale shark excursions in the nearby marine reserve to treetop dining at ZERO, the island’s garden-to-fork restaurant where ingredients are grown on site. The Araamu Spa offers a peaceful sanctuary inspired by traditional Maldivian healing practices, while sunset cruises and beachside cocktails add to the rhythm of island life.
Sustainability is at the heart of Villa Park’s philosophy. The Green Key-certified resort produces solar energy to power island operations and runs a hydroponic garden that supplies fresh produce to its kitchens. It also operates an in-house glass-bottle facility to eliminate single-use plastics and has implemented comprehensive recycling and waste management systems. These efforts ensure that each stay supports a healthier, more sustainable Maldives.
Guests who book directly at villaresorts.com enjoy exclusive benefits, flexible booking terms, and the best available rates.
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