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Maldives opens world’s first fully solar powered resort

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Maldives.net.mv – Gasfinolhu Island is officially raising the bar for green tourism all around the world. It has become switched off all diesel power generators and switched on to solar power to become the world’s first ever 100 percent solar powered resort.

Gasfinolhu located 40 minutes from Malé, which will be operated by Club Med, feature solar panels capable of producing up to 1100 Kilowatts at power peak when the island really only needs around 600 Kilowatts at peak load.

“The happiest moments are when I can see that the lights are still functioning after all the diesel generators have been switched off,” said ‘Champa’ Hussain Afeef, Gasfinolhu’s owner.

Known as one of the pioneers of tourism in the Maldives, Afeef first thought of the project in 2009 when Maldives announced it would become the planet’s first carbon neutral country by 2020.

“We wanted to do something different. I believe renewable energy is not just the future for tourism, but for all other industries as well,” he said.

The resort’s power system is completely programmed and includes computers that switch systems between direct solar power, battery power, or diesel generators, as required.

Surplus power created in the daytime is stored in a large-scale battery system, which then in turn can power the resort throughout the night. As backup, the site includes three diesel generators in case there are consecutive days of rain and the batteries run out.

Gasfinolhu also counts on a centralized “chiller system” that uses cold water to cool air for air-conditioning purposes. In addition, a zero waste management system will also be established on the island in the coming years, Environmental Consultant Ahmed Shaig said.

Ibrahim Nashid, the chairman of Renewable Energy Maldives Pvt Ltd, said Gasfinolhu exhibits that “it is possible to provide power from indigenous energy sources without compromising luxury comfort.”

He added, “They also say that it would deter from aesthetics on a luxury resort, but Gasfinolhu destroys all of these myths. Its architecture is beautiful, some have said it’s the solar paneled spaces on the island that are the most beautiful.”

The resort is expected to open its doors by January 2015 and cost $8 million to build; according to Afeef, however, all money spent on the environmental system will be recovered within six to seven years.

“I hope this initiative will turn out to be a success. And I hope to see more and more resort developers employing such technologies in the future,” Afeef said.

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CROSSROADS Maldives unveils seamless island-hopping concept across 3 resorts

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CROSSROADS Maldives, the country’s first fully integrated lifestyle destination, unveils its new multi-destination experience “1 Journey, 3 Vibes” combining three distinct resort identities in a single, effortless stay. Launching this May, the programme removes the usual logistical hurdles of island-hopping by keeping everything within one connected destination, allowing guests to make the most of their time while eliminating the need for domestic flights or costly seaplane transfers. Guests arrive just 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport and begin their journey immediately.

Designed to cater to travellers of all generations, the experience unfolds across three distinct resort environments, each offering a different rhythm and perspective of the Maldives. Guests are invited to curate their journey with flexible stay options, from an immersive nine-night experience across all three resorts to a four-night escape across two. Each stay includes full board dining, complimentary return speedboat transfers, a dedicated personal butler, and a bespoke CROSSROADS Passport stamped at every resort.

The experience opens at SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, where holidaymakers ease into island living with family-focused moments and wellness, from yoga sessions to padel on the water’s edge. The tempo then shifts at Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, where a high-energy, music-driven atmosphere takes centre stage and the brand’s celebrated Sound of Your Stay programme immerses guests in signature Hard Rock experiences. The final chapter unfolds at the fashion-forward SO/ Maldives, where a more refined pace awaits. Here, design-led spaces, elevated overwater living and curated lifestyle experiences cater to style-conscious travellers and luxury seekers, offering a sophisticated contrast that completes the journey.

“Whether it’s honeymooners or families, travellers today want variety without the hassle,” said Alexander Traeger, General Manager, SAii Lagoon Maldives and The marina @ CROSSROADS. “The new concept solves a long-standing friction point in the Maldives: the desire to experience multiple resorts without the cost, complexity or time lost to transfers. With one booking and one seamless journey, guests can enjoy a full 360-degree Maldivian experience.”

Connecting all three resorts is The Marina @ CROSSROADS, a lively waterfront hub that adds a cosmopolitan dimension to the Maldivian escape. Guests can dine at more than a dozen restaurants, including Ministry of Crab and Hard Rock Cafe, explore the Marine Discovery Centre and Maldives Discovery Centre, browse boutique shops, unwind with spa treatments or drop little ones at the kids’ club.

The 1 Journey, 3 Vibes package is available for bookings through 31 October, for stays through 20 December 2026. The Standard Package (USD 7,780) includes three nights each in a SAii Beach Room, a Hard Rock Gold Beach Pool Villa and a SO/ Maldives Ocean Water Pool Villa. The Premium Package (USD 8,880) elevates the experience with three nights each in a SAii Beach Villa with Pool, a Hard Rock Platinum Overwater Pool Villa and a SO/ Maldives Ocean Water Pool Villa. Four-night stay options are also available, providing added flexibility to suit different travel preferences.

For reservations, please book directly via rsvn.lagoon@saiihotels.com.

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Eid celebrations rooted in Maldivian culture headline Sun Siyam Resorts summer offers

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This Eid Al Adha, Sun Siyam invites Gulf travellers to swap city skylines for turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches, and immersive island celebrations across some of the Indian Ocean’s most sought-after destinations. From authentic Maldivian cultural festivities and elevated private villa experiences to family-friendly escapes and bespoke wellness retreats, Sun Siyam presents a collection of unforgettable Eid getaways tailored for couples, families, and groups seeking meaningful moments this festive season.

A Celebration Rooted in Maldivian Culture

At Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Eid Al Adha will be celebrated through a thoughtfully curated day dedicated to Maldivian heritage and island traditions. Guests can enjoy traditional evening tea gatherings at Magoodhoo Beach, experience the folklore-inspired story of Bodu Mas, and come together for Eid Farivalhu, a communal feast served on a traditional Malaafaiy platter. The celebrations continue with a special dinner buffet featuring local and international flavours, followed by the resort’s signature Maldivian Roots cultural show accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of Boduberu drumming.

Guests visiting during Eid can also take advantage of the resort’s summer offer, including complimentary seaplane transfers, spa privileges, family benefits, and curated island experiences.

Refined Island Living for Couples and Families

At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Eid celebrations blend refined luxury with heartfelt island hospitality. From the moment guests arrive to the sound of Boduberu drumming and signature organic welcome drinks, the resort offers a seamless “home away from home” atmosphere. The newly renovated Water Villas with Pool provide enhanced privacy, expansive decks, and personalised butler service, creating the perfect setting for an indulgent Eid escape. Guests can enjoy floating breakfasts, wellness rituals at The Spa by Thalgo, Jet Car adventures with drone videography, elegant White Soirees, Lobster Barbecue Nights, and private cinema screenings beneath the stars.

The resort’s Premium All-Inclusive Dine Around experience includes access to 15 restaurants and bars, with flavours spanning authentic Maldivian cuisine, Italian favourites, and South-East Asian specialties. Families can also enjoy complimentary stays and dining for up to two children when accompanied by two paying adults.

Vibrant Island Energy and Family Escapes

For families and groups after a livelier Eid, Sun Siyam Olhuveli and Siyam World deliver on all fronts — beachside gatherings, sunset celebrations, island adventures, and a non-stop programme of entertainment spread across multiple islands. At Sun Siyam Olhuveli, guests can also look forward to special live performances by belly dancer Marianna alongside energetic sets by DJ Abo, bringing an added festive atmosphere to the Eid celebrations. Both resorts are built around togetherness, making them natural fits for larger parties celebrating the spirit of Eid.

Bespoke Summer Escapes in the Indian Ocean

For travellers seeking a more secluded retreat, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef offers an intimate island experience complete with complimentary seaplane transfers, floating breakfasts, dolphin cruises, spa credits, and private experiences including Cinema by Moonlight. Beyond the Maldives, Sun Siyam Pasikudah presents a serene coastal escape in Sri Lanka, combining wellness, adventure, and curated culinary experiences. Guests can enjoy complimentary spa sessions, kayaking, bicycle adventures, exclusive room upgrade savings, and romantic dining experiences designed for couples and families alike.

Your Eid Travels Awaits

Sun Siyam’s summer offers extend the celebration further, with exclusive savings and added benefits across the collection, available for bookings until 31 August 2026, for stays until 31 October 2027. Whether seeking barefoot luxury, cultural immersion, family adventures, or wellness escapes, Gulf travellers will find the perfect Eid setting across Sun Siyam’s Indian Ocean properties, with direct GCC connectivity and a collection of distinct island experiences to match every kind of celebration.

For reservations and more information, visit sunsiyam.com.

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef marks World Cocktail Day with sustainable cocktail experiences

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Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, part of the Privé collection within the House of Siyam, marks World Cocktail Day with a transformative celebration of Green Mixology blending creativity with a deep-rooted commitment to environmental stewardship with additional engaging activities.

The resort’s beverage philosophy centres on a zero-waste approach, where every ingredient is utilised to its full potential. Guests are welcomes to observe the sophisticated discipline of the bar team as they transform overlooked elements into artisanal accents, such as dehydrating organic citrus peels in-house to create fragrant, sustainable garnishes. By replacing industrial imports with these handcrafted touches, the sanctuary ensures that every drink remains an authentic reflection of its iridescent surroundings. Guests can join the expert bar team for immersive mixology lessons to master these sustainable creations firsthand.

In addition to traditional favourites, these liquid creations highlight a dedicated Island-to-Table ethos, incorporating seasonal greens and herbs harvested directly from the resort’s flourishing gardens. The celebration was further elevated by a spectacular Flair Bartending Show, showcasing technical precision and artistry in motion, choreographed to the energy of the island.

Each curated experience at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef invites guests toast to a future of mindful indulgence, where the luxury of the moment is perfectly balanced with the preservation of the surrounding environment.

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