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Through transformation, Kurumba Maldives’ young Operations Manager Ali Farooq sets the bar high
Like many young Maldivians, Ali Farooq thought he would end up doing a desk job like an accountant after graduating from high school. But while studying for A-Levels in capital Male, he met a couple of friends working in resorts. What they told him completely changed his life!
Ali realised that he had been preparing himself for the wrong profession; that no other industry in the Maldives had a brighter future than hospitality. And so, after A-Levels, he pursued a course from Hotel School (now Faculty of Hospitality and Tourism Studies of The Maldives National University), and joined Kurumba Maldives in 2001 as a waiter under a six-month internship programme.
Since then, it has been one achievement after the other for this young man in his early 30s. Ali has climbed up the ranks to become the Operations Manager — the second-in-command — at Kurumba Maldives. He plays a key role in leading the constant evolution of the first resort to open in the island nation.
Maldives Insider speaks to Ali about his career, the transformation of Kurumba and the opportunities for locals in the Maldives tourism industry.
Aerial view of Kurumba Maldives. PHOTO/ KURUMBA
Maldives Insider: How would you describe your first few years in the industry?
Ali Farooq: When I joined Kurumba as a full-time waiter after my six-month internship, it was gearing up for a complete reconstruction. Employees were given two options; to stay and help with the project or leave and come back after the relaunch. Those of us who stayed were tasked with support services such as managing the inventory. I was 18 years at the time and in the mood to enjoy life. With no guests in the island, it was more of a picnic than a job. We had so much of a good time that sometimes I wished the project had gone on a little longer.
Kurumba transformed from Kurumba Village to Kurumba Maldives, targeting the high-end clientele. The resort offered the best accommodation options available in the Maldives at the time and introduced butler service in all premium rooms. I was amongst the first four butlers trained by a German expert. It was very complex, but I learned a lot from it. It opened my eyes to the service industry. After the training, I became the first butler in the Universal Group.
The Vihamanaa international buffet restaurant at Kurumba Maldives. PHOTO/ KURUMBA
MI: What were your experiences as a butler?
AF: From 2004 to 2006 were the golden years of Kurumba, as competition was basically non-existent. It allowed us to charge premium rates and butler service was a major component of it.
I had the chance to serve several high-profile personalities such as US presidents George Bush and Bill Clinton, then UN Secretary General Kofi Annan, then Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, and many others. You don’t even believe it yourself when it happens; a nobody from a small country in the Indian Ocean gets the chance to meet and interact with the most powerful people in the world!
I was earning so much as well — sometimes more than even the General Manager — that I thought I’d never take up another job.
MI: How did your career take a turn towards food and beverage?
AF: After 2005, a lot of new resorts opened up across the Maldives, including private islands in some remote locations. Demand for premium rooms in Kurumba started dropping, and butlers were sometimes left with no work. I realised that it was time for me to move on.
At the time, Kurumba offered me the chance to enter into restaurant operations. I took up the task, and within six months I was promoted to the post of Assistant Restaurant Manager. From there, I went onto become Bar and Restaurant Manager. I was in restaurant operations until I was promoted to the post of Assistant Food and Beverage Manager in 2014. After two years in that position, I was appointed to the post of Food and Beverage Manager.
Now, after being promoted to the post of Operations Manager from the Food and Beverage Manager position, I have an added responsibility to look after the overall operations of the resort. I serve in a supportive role to the General Manager.
The Thila contemporary restaurant and grill at Kurumba Maldives. PHOTO/ KURUMBA
MI: How has Kurumba transformed over the past 40 years, especially during your career?
AF: When I first joined, it was very basic. After the relaunch in 2004, it became a completely new product. In 2014, we carried out a major project to establish our signature Thila restaurant and to revamp our main restaurant. We’ve also established a new Japanese restaurant and reviewed the concept of all of our speciality restaurants.
I think Kurumba does maintenance and upgrading better than any other property in the Maldives. Every year, something new comes up, be it a new villa category or a new restaurant. We do it because we understand the importance of implementing new and creative ideas, especially in a competitive market such as ours. This constant evolution has become one of our strengths.
We keep a close eye on the latest happenings and trends in the industry. Based on our findings, we keep on changing the interior of our rooms, and keep our food and beverage options up-to-date. But as the first resort in the Maldives, we’ve several traditional service cultures that we follow. So, whatever change we bring about, we make sure that Kurumba’s uniqueness and its traditional values are kept intact.
MI: With the rapid expansion of the tourism industry, how has Kurumba maintained its position as a leading resort in the Maldives?
AF: I think we’re doing very well. Over the past 40 plus years, we’ve established service standards that are on par or sometimes even exceed those of reputed international hotel chains. Whoever comes in to head the resort has a responsibility to maintain those high standards. We’ve been very fortunate to have that kind of leaders with us.
Our achievements can be seen in the number of awards we’ve won, including several prestigious titles at the World Travel Awards, World Luxury Hotel Awards, World Luxury Restaurant Awards and Maldives Travel Awards. Our reputation on online travel websites such as TripAdvisor are excellent.
The Hamakaze teppanyaki restaurant at Kurumba Maldives. PHOTO/ KURUMBA
MI: There are concerns that the industry does not provide enough opportunities for locals to reach key positions. What do you think?
AF: I’m totally against that claim. There are many opportunities, but we’ve a hard time finding competent locals to fill up those positions. We get 50-100 applications for every job posting, but only a few them come with even the basic mindset necessary for a career in hospitality. Even those that do travel and tourism as a subject for O-Levels and A-Levels want to work only in managerial positions. But this is an altogether different industry. Say for example, a doctor has to start from the bottom before specialising in the field they’re interested in. Likewise, hospitality professionals can only start at the bottom and climb up the ladder. It’s a journey, which will surely pay off.
We try to develop young talent, but high school graduates aren’t ready to work in this industry. Starting from primary school years, students should be given career guidance. What happens now is that students who finish O-Levels and A-Levels aren’t sure which career path they want to follow. This poses several challenges because attitude is key in hospitality. Anyone who has the right attitude can be groomed for whatever job in this industry.
There’s also a problem with the general attitude and lifestyle of our youth. Most of them want to be funky; have long hair, untrimmed beard and unclipped nails. They want to go to Male every night after work, sleep in during the weekend and so on. But like every other service industry, hospitality too has certain minimum standards that can’t be compromised.
MI: What should be done to encourage more and more young people to join the hospitality industry?
AF: A great deal of it involves creating public awareness and changing the mindset of the public in general. You might have to be away from your family for a little while, but you save up 100 percent of your salary and allowances for your family. The resort looks after your accommodation, food and everything. But some of our young people prefer to take a job in Male that pays just MVR3,000-4,000 than going to a resort for a job that pays over MVR10,000 as basic salary.
On the other hand, we’re also seeing some positive changes as well. More and more young people understand the importance of tourism for the Maldives, and are keen to explore a career in hospitality. If the right push can be applied through our education system, we will have a much brighter future where the industry will be dominated by locals.
The recently opened King Thai restaurant at Kurumba Maldives. PHOTO/ KURUMBA
MI: What are your biggest achievements?
AF: I’m still in my early 30s, and look where I’m today! In the past 15-16 years, I believe I’ve been able to climb a bit higher than I should in my professional career. I’ve achieved every single goal that I set my eyes on.
My involvement in the transformation of Kurumba is also a personal achievement to me. I started my career here. I also started my life here; I met my life partner here and we stayed here for almost two years until she got pregnant and moved to Male. So, it’s special for me in more than one way.
MI: What is the next step in your career?
AF: I’ve always dreamed of becoming a general manager one day. I think I can reach that level, and I’m surely working towards that goal.
Delivering unforgettable travel experiences remains at the heart of hospitality, and Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives has once again been recognised for its commitment to excellence at the Booking.com Traveller Review Awards 2025. Now in its 13th year, the awards are based on over 360 million verified guest reviews, reflecting traveler experiences. As a homegrown brand from Sri Lanka, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts continues to redefine hospitality in the Maldives with its collection of tropical sanctuaries.
With a rating of 9.3, Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives continues to captivate travellers seeking an idyllic island retreat in the Meemu Atoll. This island serves as the perfect getaway for couples seeking ultimate relaxation and escape, while the exclusive 18+ Platinum Island provides an adults-only haven. The Platinum Beach Bungalows offer undisturbed tranquility for those desiring a true escape from the world. The resort’s chic overwater bungalows, complete with glass floors revealing the wonders beneath and private terraces with hammocks, provide an intimate and serene retreat, ideal for honeymooners.
Also earning a rating of 9.3, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives stands out for its contemporary design, resembling the shape of a manta ray. Vaavu Atoll, the least commercialised atoll in the Maldives, offers quiet beaches and empty dive sites, giving guests the opportunity to experience untouched beauty. The shipwreck at Vaavu Atoll is a popular diving destination, home to a variety of marine life, including fish, corals, and other invertebrates. With a combination of thrilling water sports and laid-back island vibes, Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives serves as a perfect choice for travellers seeking both excitement and relaxation.
Receiving a rating of 9.0, Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives remains one of the most sought-after destinations in the Maldives, particularly among surfers and ocean lovers. Located just a 20-minute speedboat ride from Malé, the resort is home to the world-renowned Pasta Point, one of the most consistent surf breaks in the region. The island’s lively atmosphere, diverse recreational offerings, and welcoming hospitality make it ideal for families, featuring a dedicated children’s play area that provides a safe and engaging space for fun-filled activities. Whether traveling as a couple, a family, or a group of friends, the resort offers a perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
With a rating of 8.9, Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon is recognised as a diver’s paradise, celebrated for its legendary house reef and year-round diving opportunities. Located in the North Ari Atoll, the resort offers one of the best house reefs in the Maldives, attracting diving enthusiasts eager to explore its rich marine biodiversity. The rustic charm of Ellaidhoo, combined with its commitment to marine conservation, provides an authentic island experience where guests can disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature. Whether diving with reef sharks, enjoying beachside dining, or simply soaking in the island’s natural beauty, Ellaidhoo offers a distinctive retreat for underwater adventurers.
Marking the launch of an exciting summer offer, guests planning a Maldivian getaway for a minimum of four nights between May 1, 2025, and October 31, 2026, will receive complimentary speedboat transfers. Additionally, for an elevated travel experience, GHA Discovery membership offers even greater rewards and exclusive benefits. From the moment guests sign up, they can earn and redeem Discovery Dollars (D$), access member-only rates, and enjoy carefully curated local experiences. With privileges available at every membership level, GHA Discovery enhances each stay by offering recognition and unique opportunities to explore the destination in an immersive way.
Combining the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality with the natural beauty of the Maldives, Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts in the Maldives continues to offer the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
THE OZEN COLLECTION has announced that OZEN LIFE MAADHOO has been awarded the Green Globe Gold Certification after maintaining certification for five consecutive years. This prestigious recognition highlights the resort’s unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, seamlessly integrating world-class luxury with innovative sustainability practices to protect the delicate ecosystems of the Maldives.
At the heart of OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s achievements lies a comprehensive approach to conservation. The resort’s team of in-house marine biologists leads a coral restoration project aimed at revitalising a 300-meter section of the house reef. This initiative employs 80 coral frames supporting over 2,000 coral fragments. Collaborations with organisations such as Manta Trust, Olive Ridley Project, and Parley, along with an upcoming partnership with Miyaru NGO, strengthen marine protection efforts while guest education programs enhance awareness of ocean conservation.
According to Nuria Camps Suarez, Head Marine Biologist at OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, the coral restoration project represents more than just conservation—it symbolises a commitment to future generations. By restoring the house reef, the resort is actively rebuilding a thriving ecosystem. Partnerships with organisations such as Manta Trust and Parley further amplify the impact, ensuring the preservation of the Maldives’ marine heritage.
The resort also integrates renewable energy solutions, featuring one of the Maldives’ largest floating solar panel systems. This system comprises twelve platforms with 720 panels, supplemented by 1,095 rooftop solar units, collectively generating 30% of the island’s energy requirements and significantly reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO’s dedication to a zero-waste philosophy is reflected in its advanced waste management systems. A fully automated organic composter processes three tons of green waste weekly, converting it into nutrient-rich fertiliser, while in-vessel shredders transform garden clippings into compost. Additionally, glass bottles are crushed and repurposed for minor construction projects.
Sustainable dining is also a cornerstone of the resort’s eco-conscious approach. The hydroponic farm enhances gastronomy by growing lettuce and herbs in a soilless system, reducing water consumption from 250 litres to just 50 litres per kilogram. This method meets 70% of the island’s lettuce demand while providing fresh, organic ingredients to its award-winning restaurants.
These sustainability initiatives are seamlessly incorporated into the guest experience, allowing visitors to enjoy bespoke activities such as snorkelling among regenerated reefs and savouring produce from the hydroponic farm—ensuring luxury and environmental responsibility go hand in hand. As OZEN LIFE MAADHOO continues to lead in eco-conscious hospitality, it reinforces THE OZEN COLLECTION’s ethos of ‘Refined Elegance,’ where each stay contributes positively to the planet.
Coco Bodu Hithi, a hospitality resort owned by Maldivians, is renowned for its sleek design and comfort. The resort features expansive 184-square-metre residences, each equipped with a private pool, offering elevated privileges to guests across 24 exclusive Coco Residences.
Suspended above the crystal-clear lagoon, these overwater villas provide a private sanctuary, surrounded by endless shades of blue and uninterrupted views of the Indian Ocean. Recognised for its outstanding hospitality, Coco Bodu Hithi was awarded the title of Best Service Resort at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2025. From the moment guests arrive, they are welcomed with a refreshing Kurumba and a basket of tropical fruits, while the resort ensures seamless and attentive service throughout their stay.
Guests staying in Coco Residences benefit from a range of exclusive privileges, including the dedicated service of a Mithuru, who ensures a smooth and personalised Maldivian experience. These privileges include an Executive Champagne Sunset Cruise, a Cocktail Party, and a Guided Wine Tasting with the Resident Sommelier, along with other unforgettable experiences that showcase the breathtaking turquoise waters and endless horizon.
For environmentally conscious and culturally curious travellers, the resort offers a variety of enriching activities. Visitors can participate in Coral Planting and other tailored initiatives with the resident Marine Biologist or experience the excitement of a Boduberu performance on the island.
To further enhance the guest experience, the package includes complimentary breakfast options, ranging from a dine-around breakfast to an in-villa Floating Breakfast, complete with a photographer for a keepsake. Guests also receive a daily replenished minibar stocked with beers and soft drinks, along with special residence bar benefits.
Wellness plays an integral role in the resort’s offerings, allowing guests to embark on a journey of balance, rejuvenation, and inner harmony through daily sunrise or sunset yoga sessions. Additionally, visitors can indulge in relaxation with the resort’s signature Coco Fusion Massage or a soothing Balinese Massage, both designed for deep rejuvenation.
Coco Bodu Hithi seamlessly combines adventure and exclusivity, offering captivating dive sessions, exhilarating water sports, and thoughtfully curated signature experiences. The resort has also welcomed high-profile celebrities, ensuring unforgettable stays in the Maldives.
For those looking to experience the ultimate getaway, the Coco Summer Escape offer provides a 40% discount along with a complimentary meal plan upgrade, allowing for an even more indulgent stay at Coco Bodu Hithi.
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