News
South Ari Atoll Celebrates Third Annual Whale Shark Festival
Maldives.net.mv – The 3rd annual Maldives Whale Shark Festival, organised by Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme (MWRP) was bigger and better than ever before, with participants from local communities, throughout Maldives and from around the world!
This year’s Festival saw the participation of 6 local islands: Dhigurah, Maamigili, Fenfushi, Dhangethi, Mahibadhoo, and Mandhoo, collaborating with our dynamic team of highly experienced Maldivian Artists Maeha Zahir, Jauna Nafiz, Dhahau Naseem, Ali Rishwan and Arizlaan, as well as our Festival Storytelling Facilitator, Fazail Lutfi.
The festival kicked off on Friday with ScienceFEST, a conference of Researchers, Marine Biologists and Community members, in Dhigurah, Alif Dhaal Atoll. A new aspect of the Festival, ScienceFEST was an opportunity to discuss conservation projects in the area, share research and celebrate the work of Conservation NGO’s in the Maldives. The event was a big success with 20 presenters attending including representatives from environmental groups Manta Trust and Damage Control.
“It was really great that we were able to so many people together for the Science FEST to be able to generate some really wonderful discussions between everybody and especially to have the Deputy Minister present as well.” Katie Hindle, In-Field Manager, Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme.
Yesterday, on the island of Maamigili in Alif Dhaal Atoll, 500 people came together to celebrate the marine life of South Ari Atoll and the majestic whale sharks that call it home.
The festivities of the day kicked off with huge inter- island whale shark quiz complete with a life size whale shark “bodumas” assault course and a 20ft interactive world map. Cultural stories from each island came alive with a combination of traditional story telling techniques, raivaru and choreography performed by community members, councilors and school children.
The procession was a kaleidoscope of colors and shapes glittering in the sunshine, as huge kinetic whale shark sculptures danced their way through the streets of Maamigili, accompanied by 3 bodu-beru bands. Each island donned the costumes and mobile artwork which they had made in collaboration with their festival artist in residence and wove their way through the streets. People of ages came together, inspired by the Whale Shark and Maldivian Marine Life, to be part of the festival, creating a feast of color and music that echoed across the host island.
Afterwards, the three festival judges presented awards to Dhangethi for winning the quiz, Dhigurah for best costume, to Maamigili for best Mascot (Kinetic Whale Shark Sculpture), and to Mahibadhoo for best Story Performance. The island team from Dhigurah was awarded the Festival Trophy for best overall contribution before the Festival finale performance kicked off with performances from Dhigurah, Maamigili and Mahibado Bodu-Beru bands. The whole day was brought to a fantastic conclusion with a performance by the Maldivian singing sensation Unoosha with thanks to our Festival Partner Lux.
“This is more than just a Festival it is a celebration of unity within the community. How much we take care of our natural environment. Great team work. Congratulations to the MWSRP and its festival team. Thank you to LUX* Maldives for inviting me to this event, it’s an amazing event. Hope the event continues, the Festival brings boost for everybody, especially because the message of this Festival to me is that everybody has play their part in preserving the natural beauty of this country”. Unoosha, Singer.
News
Bandos Maldives marks 53 years of hospitality with guest celebration
Bandos Maldives marked its 53rd anniversary on 10 December 2025 with a heartfelt celebration alongside in-house guests. The celebration honoured more than five decades of service since the resort first opened on 10 December 1972, becoming one of the earliest pioneers of Maldivian tourism.
Speaking at the event, the General Manager Ismail Rasheed thanked everyone who has been part of Bandos’ journey, including long-time guests, partners, and the dedicated team that has carried the resort forward. He noted that reaching 53 years is a remarkable achievement built on consistency, care, and the spirit of hospitality that Bandos is known for. He also shared that the resort is preparing for an exciting phase of improvements in the years ahead.
Bandos has continued to grow its reputation recently, earning multiple international awards over the past years for its exceptional service, family experiences and diving. The resort is also proud to be a Green Globe certified property, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainable tourism
Bandos has plans for upgrades with focus on fresh designs, improved comfort, and modern amenities to elevate the overall guest experience while maintaining the classic charm that many loyal visitors love.
With its long heritage, strong values, and continued focus on innovation, Bandos Maldives remains committed to offering memorable island experiences for travellers from around the world.
Entertainment
Hulhule Island Hotel names 2ofus as New Year’s Eve 2026 headline act
Hulhule Island Hotel (HIH) has announced 2ofus as the main entertainment for its New Year’s Eve 2026 festive events. The highly sought-after musical band has partnered with HIH to bring an unforgettable night of performance, energy, and celebration to guests.
Known for their exceptional talent and stage presence, 2ofus has reached remarkable heights in the music scene, participating in and performing at international competitions and concerts. Their collaboration with HIH marks an exciting addition to the hotel’s festive lineup.
Renowned as the most popular festive destination in the Greater Malé Area, HIH continues its tradition of delivering vibrant, world-class celebrations. This year, the hotel once again promises a festive season filled with elegance, entertainment, and the signature warmth HIH is known for.
Commenting on the partnership, Group General Manager, Ali Shakir said: “Signing with 2ofus for New Year’s Eve is truly special for us. They are one of the most in-demand acts during the festive season, and we are delighted to have them onboard. Their energy and talent are unmatched, and we are confident that HIH will once again be the place to be this New Year’s Eve. Our team is committed to creating a celebration that brings our guests joy, excitement, and unforgettable memories.”
For 2026, HIH unveils exclusive celebrations, granting guests access to multi-venue experiences, curated staycation packages, diverse multi-cuisine dining, and a range of thoughtfully designed festive highlights.
With limited slots available, guests are encouraged to secure their bookings early for the best experience.
For more information or reservations, please contact +960 762 2667 or email events@hih.com.mv
News
The Standard, Maldives achieves Green Globe Certification after rigorous audit
The Standard, Maldives has announced that it has successfully achieved the prestigious Green Globe Certification, recognizing the resort’s comprehensive and continuous dedication to sustainable operations and management. This monumental achievement underscores the property’s commitment to protecting the pristine Maldivian environment, supporting local communities, and maintaining the highest standards of social and environmental responsibility across all aspects of its unique island experience.
The certification follows a rigorous auditing process that evaluated The Standard, Maldives’ performance in energy and water conservation, waste management, social responsibility, and sustainable procurement. A key highlight of the resort’s innovative sustainability initiatives is the introduction of the Zero Capsule Machine System for Coffee. By replacing traditional single-use capsules with eco-friendly coffee balls, the resort has achieved an estimated reduction of over 25,000 pieces of non-biodegradable coffee capsules annually, substantially minimizing plastic and aluminium waste and setting a new, greener standard for in-room and dining beverage service.
Furthermore, as part of our commitment to local support and Green Globe sustainability standards, The Standard, Maldives has actively strengthened its local supply chain. For the past three months, the resort has been consistently sourcing fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and lettuce from a local farm, Maldivian Mermaid, on a nearby island. This initiative not only strengthens our relationship with the local community but also:
- Reduces carbon footprint by minimizing long-distance transportation.
- Supports regional agriculture and local island economies.
- Optimizes logistical efficiency by easing storage demands on regular supply boat from Malé, ensuring imported items are kept at the correct temperature. The redefining agriculture farm delivers directly to the resort using their own boat, streamlining the process.
“Achieving Green Globe Certification is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who embody our commitment to sustainability every day,” says Justin Swart, General Manager The Standard, Maldives. “Our goal is to demonstrate that lifestyle, luxury and responsible travel can, and must, go hand in hand. Initiatives like the Zero Capsule Machine System and our growing partnership with local farmers like Maldivian Mermaid, show our proactive approach to finding practical, impactful solutions that preserve the incredible natural beauty surrounding us for generations to come.”
Moving forward, The Standard, Maldives will continue to implement and expand its sustainability programs, focusing on marine conservation, further reducing its carbon footprint, and enhancing local community engagement, all while ensuring guests enjoy the playful, yet mindful, hospitality the brand is known for. The resort looks forward to contributing to a more sustainable future for the Maldives and the broader travel industry.
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