News
Emirates named world’s best airline in Skytrax awards

In a gala ceremony held at Farnborough Airshow, Skytrax presented the 2016 World Airline Awards. The leaders and top management from over 40 airlines from across the globe attended the event, where Emirates was voted the World’s Best Airline by air travellers.
At the awards event, Edward Plaisted of Skytrax commented: “we are honoured to have so many airlines travel here today and receive their accolades after being voted as Best Airlines in many different categories. For many years we have been dedicated to providing a survey and awards process that remains independent, and delivering an event that is aptly known as the Passenger’s Choice Awards. We have seen many familiar names here today appearing as repeat winners, which I guess reflects that in many cases ‘once a winner, always a winner’ in many customers eyes.
Emirates was named the to the prestigious title of best airline in the world, trumping last year’s winner Qatar Airways, which came second. Emirates also scooped up the awards for World’s Best Inflight Entertainment for a record 12th consecutive year, and Best Airline in the Middle East.
Singapore Airlines took third spot, followed by Cathay Pacific, both in last year’s top five, while ANA All Nippon Airways rose two places to come fifth.
The World’s Top 10 Airlines of 2016
- Emirates
- Qatar Airways
- Singapore Airlines
- Cathay Pacific
- ANA All Nippon Airways
- Etihad Airways
- Turkish Airlines
- EVA Air
- Qantas Airways
- Lufthansa
In other awards, Qatar Airways took gongs for the world’s best business class, best business class lounge and best airline staff in the Middle East, while Singapore was awarded the best airline in Asia and ANA All Nippon Airways was recognised for offering the world’s best airport services and having the best airline staff in Asia for the second year in a row.
Other accolades included the world’s best low-cost airline handed to Norwegian and the world’s most improved airline won by Thai Airways.
Skytrax World Airline Awards: A-Z of winners
- Aegean Airlines Best Regional Airline in Europe
- Aeroflot Russian Airlines Best Airline in Eastern Europe
- Air Astana Best Airline in Central Asia / India, Best Airline Staff Service in Central Asia / India
- Air France Best First Class Airline Lounge Dining, Best First Class Comfort Amenities
- Air New Zealand World’s Best Premium Economy Class Cabin, World’s Best Premium Economy Class Airline Seat
- AirAsia World’s Best Low-Cost Airline, Best Low-Cost Airline in Asia
- AirAsia X World’s Best Low Cost Airline Premium Cabin, World’s Best Low Cost Airline Premium Seat
- ANA All Nippon Airways World’s Best Airport Services, Best Airline Staff Service in Asia
- Asiana Airlines World’s Best Economy Class, Best Economy Seat, Best Economy Class Onboard Catering
- Austrian Best Airline Staff Service in Europe Azul Linhas Aereas Brasileiras, Best Low-Cost Airline in South America, Best Airline Staff in South America
- Bangkok Airways World’s Best Regional Airline, Best Regional Airline in Asia
- Cathay Pacific Airways World’s Best Airline Cabin Cleanliness, Best First Class Airline Lounge
- Copa Airlines Best Airline in Central America / Caribbean, Best Regional Airline in Central America / Caribbean, Best Airline Staff Service in Central America / Caribbean
- Emirates World’s Best Airline (Airline of the Year), World’s Best Airline Inflight Entertainment
- Ethiopian Airlines Best Airline Staff Service in Africa
- Etihad Airways World’s Best First Class, Best First Class Seat, Best First Class Onboard Catering
- EVA Air Best Airline Transpacific, Best Business Class Comfort Amenities
- Finnair Best Airline in Northern Europe
- flyDubai Best Low Cost Airline in the Middle East
- Garuda Indonesia World’s Best Cabin Crew
- Hainan Airlines Best Airline in China, Best Airline Staff Service in China
- Hawaiian Airlines Best Airline Staff Service in North America
- Indigo Best Low-Cost Airline in Central Asia / India
- Jetstar Airways Best Low-Cost Airline in Australia / Pacific
- Juneyao Airlines Best Regional Airline in China
- Kulula Best Low Cost Airline in Africa
- LAN Airlines Best Airline in South America
- Lufthansa Best Airline in Western Europe, Best Airline Transatlantic
- NorwegianWorld’s Best Long Haul Low-Cost Airline, Best Low-Cost Airline in Europe
- Plaza Premium World’s Best Independent Airport Lounge
- Porter Airlines Best Regional Airline in North America
- Qantas Best Airline Australia in Pacific, Best Airline Staff in Australia / Pacific Best Premium Economy Onboard Catering
- Qatar Airways World’s Best Business Class, Best Business Class Airline Lounge, Best Airline Staff in the Middle East
- Royal Air Maroc Best Regional Airline in Africa
- Singapore Airlines Best Airline in Asia, Best Business Class Airline Seat
- Sky Airline Best Regional Airline South America
- South African Airways Best Airline in Africa
- Spring Airlines Best Low-Cost Airline in China
- Star AllianceWorld’s Best Airline Alliance, World’s Best Airline Alliance Lounge
- Thai Airways World’s Most Improved Airline, Best Airline Lounge Spa Facility
- Thomson Airways World’s Best Leisure Airline
- Turkish Airlines Best Airline in Europe, Best Airline in Southern Europe, Best Business Class Airline Catering, Best Business Class Lounge Dining
- Virgin America Best Airline in North America, Best Low-Cost Airline in North America
Often referred to as the “Oscars of the aviation industry”, the World Airline Awards this year welcomed entries from more airlines than ever before. The winners are then chosen based on what is said to be “the world’s largest airline passenger satisfaction survey”.
While the figures for this year’s awards are yet to be released, last year’s survey of 18.9 million passengers saw more than 245 airlines measured on 41 key performance standards, from the quality of check-in service and boarding procedures to cabin cleanliness and other indicators.
Source: The Telegraph, London
News
COLOURS OF OBLU reveals festive experiences for families and couples across four resorts
This festive season, COLOURS OF OBLU invites travellers to trade the winter chill for turquoise waters, sun-drenched beaches and a season of joyful island experiences across the brand.
From the natural reef setting of OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO and the chic charm of OBLU SELECT Sangeli, to the adults-focused island escape of OBLU SELECT Lobigili and the vibrant energy of OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi, each resort presents its own take on the festive season, bringing together celebration, discovery and the easy-going spirit of island life.
Festive programmes at OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi and OBLU SELECT Lobigili will run from 22 December 2026 to 9 January 2027, while OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO and OBLU SELECT Sangeli will host their celebrations from 22 December 2026 to 7 January 2027.
This year, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO, Reef of Wonder draws inspiration from the island’s vibrant marine life. Festivities include a reef-themed parade for younger guests, an Indian Ocean-inspired Christmas dinner and an elegant New Year’s Eve celebration, bringing the spirit of the surrounding waters into the holiday programme. Guests can also discover the island’s renowned house reef, adding an extra dimension of marine adventure to their festive escape.

At OBLU SELECT Sangeli, A Fisherman’s Tale pays tribute to the Maldives’ fishing heritage and the traditions of community and shared abundance. Christmas brings carol singing, island entertainment and an Indian Ocean-themed feast, while New Year’s Eve features a themed dinner, celebrations on the beach and fireworks. The resort offers a distinctive backdrop for festive moments, with opportunities to enjoy both lively gatherings and the tranquillity of island life.

Designed exclusively for adults, OBLU SELECT Lobigili presents A Festive Season, Made for Two, with a focus on romance and meaningful moments together. Christmas Eve sets the tone for intimate celebrations, while New Year’s Eve takes on the glamour of the Great Gatsby era, with live performances and a celebratory countdown. Couples can also enjoy private beach dinners, spa experiences and underwater dining throughout their stay.

Meanwhile, OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi embraces A Golden Festive Season, bringing a touch of golden glamour to its vibrant setting. Blending festive sparkle with lively entertainment and shared family moments, the programme begins with Santa’s arrival on Sunset Beach and a special Christmas lunch. The celebrations build towards a lively New Year’s Eve, with a cocktail gathering, gala dinner, live entertainment and a spectacular fire show, culminating in fireworks at midnight. The season captures Ailafushi’s playful spirit and promises memorable moments for all ages.

Across COLOURS OF OBLU, the festive season is an invitation to experience the Maldives beyond the traditional postcard setting – through authentic island moments, ocean adventures, shared meals and celebrations created around the joy of being together.
Whether guests are travelling as a family, with friends or as a couple, each resort offers a different way to experience the festive season while staying true to the relaxed, colourful character of COLOURS OF OBLU.
Cooking
Award-winning Pastry Chef Elena Nabiullina brings contemporary pâtisserie to The Nautilus Maldives
The Nautilus Maldives welcomes award-winning pastry chef and CREAMO founder Elena Nabiullina from 7 to 12 November 2026 as part of its Masters for Masters series. Her residency will bring contemporary pâtisserie to the island through a guest dessert masterclass and a special creation offered to all guests staying during the week.
At The Nautilus, culinary experiences begin with individual tastes and curiosity. Within this spirit of unscripted dining, Elena invites guests to explore the imagination, precision and care that transform familiar ingredients into memorable desserts.
Her journey began in her mother’s kitchen, making nut-shaped biscuits filled with condensed milk and delicate pastries. Although she initially pursued a career in industrial and civil construction, an encounter with French chef David Emmerle inspired her to turn a lifelong fascination with confectionery into a profession. Elena studied at the Ragout School and interned at Akrame in Paris, further refining her craft through training with Cédric Grolet, Garuharu, Ramon Morato, Jordi Bordas and Karim Bourgi. Her specialist education includes Valrhona’s private school in Dubai, Carpigiani Gelato University and the Institut National de la Boulangerie-Pâtisserie in Rouen, France.

Named Pastry Chef of the Year in 2024 by WHERETOEAT, she has contributed to more than 14 restaurant openings. She also served as pastry chef at Café Garage at the Garage Museum and founded CREAMO, her artisanal gelato brand. Her work combines contemporary technique, unexpected flavours and a thoughtful balance of textures and presentation.
On 8 November, Elena will lead a dessert masterclass for guests, sharing the techniques and creative inspiration behind her signature CREAMO cookies. Easy to recreate at home, these treats will allow guests to bring a taste of the experience into their own kitchens. Throughout the residency, all guests staying at The Nautilus will also receive her signature Bublik, an elegantly crafted, ring-shaped dessert, presented with a specially designed card sharing the story behind Elena’s creation. The Masters for Masters series brings accomplished creators to The Nautilus to share the passions that define their work. Elena’s residency offers a personal encounter with the chef behind the craft, with time to learn, exchange ideas and savour her artistry in the intimacy of a private island home.
To learn more about Chef Elena Nabiullina Residency at The Nautilus Maldives, visit here.
News
Cora Cora Maldives brings ocean magic to Christmas and New Year celebrations
This festive season, the lost kingdom of Atlantis rises from beneath the waves as Cora Cora Maldives transforms into The Enchanted Tide: A Festive Journey to Ocean Magic. From 19 December 2026 to 7 January 2027, the five-star freedom paradise in Raa Atoll invites guests to step into a joyful Christmas and New Year celebration shaped by ocean magic and island freedom.
Beneath the glow of the Coral Tree, the island comes alive from day to night with pool parties, beachside feasts, live entertainment and celebrations that keep the festive energy flowing from sunset to midnight. Follow the tide through an eventful festive calendar designed to surprise, delight and bring everyone together. Dance beneath the stars, celebrate by the lagoon and soak up the joy of island life as The Enchanted Tide brings the festive season to life from the very first splash.

Atlantis Rises for Christmas and New Year
The journey begins with The First Spark of Atlantis, a magical Christmas tree lighting ceremony that opens the season with island warmth and the first glow of the Coral Tree. It sets the mood for a festive escape where every day brings a new reason to celebrate the freedom of the island. Christmas Eve becomes a grand ocean-inspired celebration with the ‘Pearl Palace Christmas Eve Banquet’. Step into an evening of festive flavors, live music, and elegant island magic as Atlantis rises beneath the glow of The Enchanted Tide. On Christmas Day, Santa’s Magical Arrival brings joy to guests big and small.
As the year comes to a close, raise a glass at The Sapphire Sundown before the night unfolds into the ‘Great Atlantis Countdown’. Welcome 2027 with festive dining, live entertainment, dancing by the sea, and fireworks lighting up the Maldivian sky. When midnight has passed, the Sunken Kingdom After Party keeps the celebration alive until the first morning of the New Year.
Mermaids of the Bikini Bottom at Cora Kids® Club
Little explorers can dive into Mermaids of the Bikini Bottom at CoRa kids® Club, a playful festive adventure inspired by underwater creativity and the colorful world of SpongeBob SquarePants and his friends. Each day brings a new reason to play, create, and discover. Kids can make ocean crafts, decorate festive treats, and create their own souvenirs before heading out for beach games, treasure quests, and themed island adventures made for holiday fun. The programme is made for curious little guests who are ready for a challenge at Bubble Olympics, setting off on a Mermaid Treasure Quest, taking part in Kids Night Camping & Bonfire and Patrick’s Scavenger Hunt, enjoying a Mermaid Makeover, and settling in for Kids Movie Nights. It is a festive celebration made just for children, with plenty of magic for grown-ups to enjoy too.

A Festive Journey of Serenity at Moksha®
Between the celebrations, MOKSHA® Spa & Wellbeing Centre invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect. This year’s festive wellness programme brings together alternative therapies, daily wellbeing activities, and hands-on workshops designed to help you welcome the New Year feeling restored. Each experience offers a peaceful pause between the island celebrations. For a deeper relaxation, the ‘Re-Set Space’ takes you through a three-day journey of release, restore, and regain. It is your moment to pause, return to yourself, and step into the year ahead with renewed energy. This festive season, learn simple ways to bring relaxation, connection, and well-being home with you.
Island Days in Motion
You will never run out of things to do this festive season. The Recreational Activity Programme keeps the island alive with playful challenges, beach fun, poolside energy, and moments that bring everyone together. Start your day with Reef Rhythm Aqua Zumba or jump into Water Polo Splash. Gather your friends for beach football, beach volleyball, table tennis, or beer pong. As the evening settles in, take the mic at Coral Kingdom Karaoke and let the island mood carry you into the night. Every day gives you a new way to play, laugh, and feel the freedom of Cora Cora Maldives.

Dive into the Magic of the Enchanted Tide
Dive beneath the surface of the ordinary and follow the glow of Atlantis to Cora Cora Maldives. Let the music move you, the ocean calm you, and the island bring everyone together in true festive freedom. This season, The Enchanted Tide transforms Cora Cora Maldives into a world of ocean magic, joyful connection, and unforgettable memories that will shimmer long after the tide has turned.
Discover the full festive programme and start planning your escape at Cora Cora Maldives website. For more information and bookings, visit www.coracoraresorts.com.
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