News
Half a million tourists visit Maldives in five months
Maldives.net.mv – With an impressive 14.9% increase in arrivals during the month of May 2014, tourist arrivals to the Maldives continue to flourish, reaching half a million from January to May 2014. The Maldives welcomed a total of 518,166 tourists for the period, registering a strong growth of 11.9% over the same the period of 2013.
Although Asia and the Pacific Region took lead as the market generator during the month of May 2014, Europe remained as the market leader with 48.3% shares at the end of the period from January to May 2014. The region brought in an additional 34,544 tourists during the month of May, which was a decline of -1.8% compared to that of May 2013. Tourist arrivals from European region reached a total of 253,602 at the end May 2014, registering a marginal growth of 0.7% for the period. With the negative growth seen from sub regions, Central/Eastern Europe (-10.3%) and Western Europe (-5.6%) during the month of May 2014, the overall growth rate from both the regions resulted negative growths of -5.1% and -0.6% respectively, for the period from January to May 2014. Best performance for the month of May was recorded from East Mediterranean Europe with a positive 41.5% increase. While Southern Europe posted a +15% growth during the month of May resulting in a positive growth of 5.3% at the end of the period January to May, Northern Europe registered a growth rate of 4.3% for the month of May leading to an increase of +7.2% for the period in review. In terms of market shares, the two sub regions which posted negative growths covered most of the arrivals from Europe. While a total of 105,923 tourists taking hold of 20% shares was recorded for the Western Europe, Central Eastern Europe took hold of 10.6% shares with 54,691 arrivals. When looking at individual market performances from Europe, top five markets were Germany, U.K, Russia, Italy and France. The German market maintained its position at the top with 8.3% shares. With an additional 8,365 tourists in May 2014, the total arrivals from Germany for the period from January to May 2014 was 43,188 resulting in a slight increase of 0.9% for the period. The U.K market did well with a 4.6% increase at the end of May 2014, supplying 7.7% to market shares for the period. The Russian market deteriorated further posting a negative growth of 7.5% for the period from January to May 2014. Market share of Russia stood at 6.4% at the end of the period. Italy and France remained at 4th and 5th positions respectively with 6.0% share and 5.9% shares. While the Italian market has shown improvements posting a positive growth of 1.7% at the end of May 2014, the French market performed with a negative growth of 3.6%.
Asia and the Pacific region has been showing outstanding results throughout the last five months of 2014. The region overtook Europe, to be the leading market generator during the month of May 2014 taking hold of 55% of total arrivals to the Maldives during the month. With a total of 50,354 tourists in May, the total arrivals from the Region for the period from January to May 2014, was recorded to be 229,847, which was a 24.7% increase over the same period of 2013. The region represented 44.4% of all arrivals during the period January to May 2014. All sub regions posted above average growth rates with South East Asia as the leading sub region with 64.1% in terms of growth rate. Over 75% of all arrivals from Asia and the Pacific and 33% of total arrivals to Maldives during the period from January to May, came from sub region North East Asia. By individual market performances, China continues to show remarkable performances maintaining its number one position as the market leader with more than 27% shares. At the end of May 2014, a total of 141,249 tourists arrived in Maldives from China, which was 23.3% increase over the same period of 2013. India, Japan and Korea were the second, third and fourth markets respectively from this region. Indian market saw an increase of 13.1% during the period in review contributing 3.5% as market shares at the end of the period. The Japanese market improved its performance posting an impressive growth rate of nearly 16% during the month of May leading to a positive 7.1% growth rate for the period from January to May 2014. A strong growth of 45% was recorded from the Korean market during this period with the arrivals reaching a total of 14,016 at the end of May. Market share of Korea stood at 2.7% at the end of the period.
Americas, which was the third leading region with 3.4% shares, brought in 17,470 tourists to the Maldives during the period January to May 2014. A healthy growth of 32% was recorded from this region for the period. The U.S. market took hold of over 60% of arrivals from the region with a total of 10,483 tourists at the end of the period. The Middle East market share was increased to 2.7% maintained at 2.6% during the period. This region also posted an impressive growth of 24.2% for the period. Double digit growth rates were recorded from all major markets from the region. Africa region market share remained at 0.6% at the end of May 2014. Although a negative growth (-6.8%) was recorded from this region for the month of May 2014, the overall growth rate remained positive at 1.4% at the end of the period from January to May 2014.
At the end of May 2014, the total number of registered tourist establishments reached 460 with 30,510 beds, out of which on average 291 establishments with a sum total of 27,004 beds were operational during the period in review. These include 105 tourist resorts (23,029 beds), 17 hotels (1,510 beds), 112 guest houses (1,539 beds) and 57 safari vessels (927 beds). The overall bed nights of these establishments saw an increase of 5.9% during the period reaching a total of 3,262,667 nights. While the occupancy rate recorded an increase of 2.3% to attain an average of 80.2% for the period, average duration of stay of the tourists saw a decline of 0.4%. The average duration of stay for the period was 6.3 days.
Source: Ministry of Tourism
News
Kuda Villingili Maldives marks third consecutive Green Globe Certification
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, one of the luxury resorts in the Maldives, is celebrating its third consecutive Green Globe Certification, marking another milestone in its long-term commitment to responsible hospitality. Beyond certification, the achievement reflects an approach to sustainability that extends across the resort’s operations, natural environment and surrounding community.
Having successfully completed its annual sustainability audit, Kuda Villingili continues to meet internationally recognised standards across environmental, social, cultural and economic criteria. Across the island, this commitment takes shape through practical measures designed to reduce the resort’s environmental footprint while preserving the natural beauty of the Maldives for generations to come.

Solar panels within the team members’ village reduce energy consumption by approximately 40%, while advanced composting systems transform food waste into nutrient-rich compost used across the island’s landscape. A dedicated recycling centre processes glass for reuse, complemented by wider initiatives to incorporate recycled materials and biodegradable products, while eliminating single-use plastics across the island.
Yet Kuda Villingili’s approach extends beyond its operations. At the heart of its sustainability philosophy is the belief that lasting impact comes from creating a deeper connection between people, place and purpose.
Kuda Villingili also hosts a monthly Coral Planting Experience in collaboration with MSTS, its dive and watersports team, as part of the resort’s ongoing contribution to marine conservation. The initiative brings together guests and ambassadors to learn more about the Maldives’ delicate marine ecosystem and take part in coral restoration efforts.

Participants are introduced to the importance of healthy coral reefs, their role in supporting marine biodiversity and the coral restoration process before taking part in planting coral fragments.
Young travellers are also encouraged to participate, transforming marine conservation into an interactive learning experience and nurturing an appreciation for the ocean from an early age. By bringing guests, children and ambassadors together, the initiative reflects Kuda Villingili’s belief that environmental awareness becomes more meaningful when it is experienced first-hand.
This commitment to creating a positive impact extends beyond the natural environment, with community wellbeing forming an equally important part of Kuda Villingili’s approach to responsible hospitality. The resort recently hosted its annual Blood Donation Drive in partnership with Maldivian Blood Services under the Ministry of Health. A total of 64 ambassadors registered to participate, contributing to efforts to strengthen the nation’s blood supply and support patients requiring lifesaving transfusions across theMaldives.
The initiative forms part of the resort’s wider approach to sustainability, reflecting its belief that meaningful change extends from protecting the environment to supporting the wellbeing of the communities around it.

“Receiving Green Globe Certification for the third consecutive year is a proud milestone for our team and reflects our continued commitment to responsible hospitality,” said Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director of Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives. “At Kuda Villingili, we believe true luxury extends beyond exceptional experiences—it is about creating a positive impact on our environment, our community, and future generations. Sustainability remains at the heart of everything we do, and we will continue to evolve our practices while delivering unforgettable experiences for our guests.”
From reducing its environmental footprint to nurturing ocean stewardship and supporting community wellbeing, Kuda Villingili continues to demonstrate that sustainability is not defined by a single initiative or certification. It is an ongoing responsibility woven into how the resort operates, how it connects guests with the destination and how it contributes to the Maldives beyond its shores.
As Kuda Villingili enters its third year as a Green Globe Certified resort, that commitment continues to evolve—ensuring that the beauty guests experience today can be shared for generations to come.
For more information about Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, please visit www.kudavillingili.com.
News
The Ritz-Carlton pairs Singapore and Maldives for two-destination Asian escape
The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands come together to inspire a multi-destination journey pairing the vibrant energy of Singapore with the natural beauty and tranquility of the Maldives, ideal for those looking to experience two distinct sides of Asia in unparalleled luxury. Just approximately four hours apart, with two daily nonstop flights operated by Singapore Airlines, one of the world’s leading airlines, the two destinations offer a seamless experience from Singapore’s vibrant cultural and culinary scene to the endless blue horizons and serenity of the Maldives.
Award-winning dining and spa experiences await across both destinations, brought together through art, design, and architecture, and elevated by the exceptional savoir-faire of The Ritz-Carlton Ladies and Gentlemen.

Two Destinations, One Legendary Ritz-Carlton Experience
While distinctly rooted in their respective destinations, both properties share the unmistakable spirit of The Ritz-Carlton. At the heart of each experience are the Ladies and Gentlemen, whose intuitive and personalised service transforms every stay into something meaningful.
Whether arriving in the heart of Singapore or stepping onto a private Maldivian island, guests are welcomed with the same sense of belonging; the comfort of feeling at home while discovering somewhere entirely new. This connection extends to the dining experience at Summer Pavilion, where guests can savour exceptional Cantonese cuisine at the Michelin-starred Marina Bay restaurant, before discovering new flavours at its island counterpart, the Forbes Four-Star Summer Pavilion, set over the Maldivian waters in an intimate lantern-lit ambiance. Thoughtful experiences, exceptional dining, distinctive design, and genuine care create a natural thread between both destinations, allowing the journey to continue seamlessly from city to island.

The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore: A Canvas of Views
The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore is renowned for its prime Marina Bay location, offering spectacular panoramic views of the city’s most iconic landmarks, from the Singapore Flyer to the Formula 1 street circuit and the Kallang cityscape. Guided by the principles of Feng Shui, the property’s architecture and interiors are composed to balance energy and enliven the senses. This philosophy is expressed in the iconic octagonal bathroom windows featured in every guest room, including the signature Club Premier Suite, Club Deluxe Suite and Millenia Suites, framing panoramic views of the Singapore skyline while alluding to the auspicious number eight, best experienced during the In-room Butler Drawn Bath.
Within its walls, the property is home to one of the largest contemporary art collections in Southeast Asia, with over 4,200 artworks featuring renowned artists including David Hockney, Andy Warhol, Dale Chihuly, Frank Stella and Zhu Wei, of which 90% specially commissioned for the hotel. Guests are invited to explore selected pieces through the hotel’s Augmented Reality Art Tour, bringing each work to life in an entirely new dimension.
That same spirit of discovery extends to the table, where The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore stands as a culinary destination in its own right. General Manager Peter Mainguy shares: “Food is one of the most authentic ways to experience Singapore’s culture, history and diversity. We are passionate about connecting guests with the destination through meaningful culinary experiences. Through seven immersive conservatory kitchens at Colony, savour a true taste of Singapore, celebrating the diverse flavours and culinary traditions that define the nation. At Summer Pavilion, One Michelin Star refined Cantonese cuisine offers an intimate dining experience, rooted in culinary craftsmanship and heritage. Republic offers a sixties-inspired cocktail experience, while The Ritz Lounge is a haven for contemporary all-day dining. Every dining experience offers an opportunity to discover and celebrate the multicultural spirit that defines Singapore.”

The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands: Embrace the Circle of Island Life
At The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, guests are invited to embrace the natural rhythm of island life. Designed by the late Kerry Hill, the resort’s distinctive circular architecture sits in harmony with the ocean and surrounding landscape, with fluid indoor-outdoor spaces that draw the eye toward endless horizons of blue. From private overwater and beach pool villas to expansive premium residences and The Ritz-Carlton Estate, the resort offers a contemporary expression of Maldivian island living, shaped by design, nature, and a profound sense of place.
This connection with the destination extends throughout the guest experience. The award-winning The Ritz-Carlton Spa, set over the lagoon, offers a sanctuary inspired by the natural elements and ancient principles of Yin and Yang, while the resort’s expert Naturalists invite guests to discover and contribute to the preservation of the surrounding ecosystem. Younger guests embark on their own island adventures at Ritz Kids, while a curated calendar of visiting chefs, artists, wellness practitioners, and other Masters of Crafts brings new opportunities for discovery throughout the year.

Dining unfolds across seven distinctive restaurants and bars, from relaxed Mediterranean moments at Beach Shack and Japanese flavours at IWAU to contemporary Cantonese cuisine at the Forbes Four-Star Summer Pavilion, suspended above the lagoon. Throughout the stay, each guest is accompanied by a dedicated Aris Meeha, or island butler, whose intuitive and personalised service allows days to unfold effortlessly and at an unhurried pace.
“There is something truly special about a journey that connects the pulse of Singapore with the serenity of the Maldives,” says Oscar Postma, General Manager of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. “Here, Kerry Hill’s circular architecture invites guests to slow down and embrace island life at its own unhurried pace, a philosophy that feels like a natural counterpoint to the vibrant energy of a Singapore stay. Having called Singapore home twice, spanning a total of 15 years – including as part of the leadership team at The
Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore, and again before joining our Maldives resort 18 months ago – I’ve experienced firsthand how these two destinations, though worlds apart, share the same soul of genuine hospitality. Both have captured my heart in their own distinctive way.”

From Artful City Lights to Elevated Island Living
Together, The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands invite guests to embrace two distinct rhythms in one remarkable journey: feel energised by the vibrant pulse of a global city, surrounded by art and dazzling lights, before slowing down to the gentle rhythm of the ocean within an architectural masterpiece on a private Maldivian island.
Connected by more than a flight, the two stays are united by a shared approach to hospitality, creating a journey where guests can discover something entirely different at each destination while always feeling unmistakably at home.
For more information, visit ritzcarlton.com/Singapore and ritzcarlton.com/Maldives.
News
Niva Kurumba sets stage for ‘A Night at the Circus’ this New Year’s Eve
Niva Kurumba has announced its festive season programme for 2026–2027, a curated collection of experiences running from 21 December to 7 January. The programme unfolds in two chapters: a classic tropical Christmas from 21 to 25 December, followed by a New Year at the Circus from 26 December to 6 January, with celebrations positioning the iconic resort as a destination for togetherness, celebration, and discovery.

An idyllic tropical Christmas
The season opens with the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, its glow accompanied by festive carols. Festive dining anchors the celebrations. The Christmas Eve Gala Dinner and Christmas Day Lunch at Vihamaana bring lavish buffets, live cooking stations, and music, while sunset rituals at Kandu Bar mark each evening by the water’s edge. Throughout the season guests may expect themed sundowners – from a Sunset Carnival to Blush Sunset Hour and Flames of the Island – each layered with music, handcrafted cocktails, and a fun shoreline atmosphere.

A sense of wonder
After Christmas, the island leans into wonder. Days are shaped by barefoot celebrations and shoreline gatherings – a Beach Fiesta with music and DJ beats, a Maldivian Mas Race fishing competition, Island Illusion magic show, a spectacular fire performance, and a showstopping fashion show by the pool. The programme builds towards a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner themed ‘A Night at the Circus’, where fire performers and aerial artists set the scene before fireworks illuminate the Maldivian sky at midnight – a farewell to 2026 and a joyful welcome to 2027.

The underwater world unfolds in breathtaking colour and life
Guests can slip into warm, crystalline waters for guided snorkelling excursions with stingrays and turtles to gentle nurse sharks. Experienced guides lead voyages across coral gardens and breathtaking reefs, revealing the archipelago’s underwater beauty. On Christmas Day a secluded sandbank offers an invitation to swim in the clear water and experience the quiet beauty of the Maldives.

A season for play
Little moments of magic are created for the island’s youngest guests with a world designed just for them, offering a season of playful days and festive fun. Hands-on activities include gingerbread decorating, snowflake making, sand art, seashell crafts, and clown crown making. Special events include a sand snowman competition on the beach, a splash party by the pool, and a Grand Show Stopper Fashion Show. The spirit of the holidays continues with Christmas wreath making and a search for Santa across the sea, while a Circus Cruise brings new year adventure.

For those seeking calm
A quiet invitation to slow down. This festive season, LIME Wellbeing introduces a collection of restorative experiences designed to reset and reconnect. Highlights include the Romantic Escape for two, the family-focused Together Treasure, and Serenity Under the Stars – an alfresco couple’s massage where warm coconut oil is massaged into the skin using cowrie shells.
A Season of Light awaits. The full programme and festive season special offer are available for those ready to plan their escape at Festive Season | Niva Kurumba Maldives.
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