Culture
Nika Island launches ‘Nostalgia: the Maldives that used to be’ series to promote Maldives culture
Nika Island resort and Spa has launched a series of community events to promote Maldivian culture.
As part of the “Nostalgia: the Maldives that used to be” series, the resort hosted a special night early this month to promote the dying tradition of stone carving. It gathered not only Nika’s guests, but also representatives of the neighbouring local islands of Mathiveri and Bodufolhudhoo as well as the general managers of the main resorts and guesthouses in Ari Atoll.
The event saw Mohamed Imran, a talented Maldivian artist who has mastered the techniques of stone carving, explain the importance of this art for the country and what he is currently doing to revamp local heritage.

An exhibition with a selection of hand-made artefacts carved on a variety of materials allowed Nika’s guests to discover this centuries-old tradition that is fading and slowly disappearing.

“Nika believes in culture. We are convinced that it is a powerful driver for development, with community-wide social, economic impacts, not only for the resort, but also for the entire community living in our beautiful atoll,” Edoardo Caccin, the External Director at Nika, said in his opening remarks at the event.
“Culture has a transformative power on existing development approaches, helping to broaden the terms of the current development of our operations and to make development much more relevant to the needs of our guests and of the community; cultural heritage, cultural and creative industries, can serve as strategic tools for creating a complete experience for our guests and for all the people visiting and residing in our beautiful Island.”
The following day, Nika promoted a tailor-made workshop for children in order to encourage them to carve small fragments of stone.
As part of the series, Nika will host more events throughout the year to promote Maldivian culture and heritage.
“We believe in aesthetics and culture. We consider Nika an ideal place where Italian traditions and culture meet the local heritage: we are the Maldives that used to be. The aficionados of this unique boutique hotel knows how much we have been investing into preserving and maintaining a strong Maldivian identity here, at Nika,” Edoardo said.
Located in North Ari Atoll, Nika is is a milestone of the Maldives hospitality industry.
The deserted island of Kudafolhudhu turned into a resort back in 1983. Since its inception, the philosophy and values that shaped this unique boutique resort are the same: privacy, natural sophistication and local heritage.
All of its 43 villas have been built according to the traditional Maldivian architectural style. Being one of the first resorts built in the country, everything on the island has been built using coral blocks, coconut palm trunks and palm leaves. A collection of antiques and unique Maldivian pieces of art decorate the interiors of all the villas.
Nika is a perfect example of a boutique hotel that breaks the dynamics of big international brands that are reshaping the Maldivian hospitality industry. Nika is a heady mix of Italian lifestyle and Maldivian traditions; a unique platform where heritage and natural beauty meet together.
Culture
Madifushi Private Island brings Maldivian Eid traditions to life with island-wide celebration
Madifushi Private Island, one of the Maldives’ most cherished luxury island retreats, welcomed Eid Al Adha with a heartfelt and immersive day of cultural celebrations. Under the theme Eid By The Sea: Timeless Maldivian Heritage, the resort crafted a thoughtfully curated programme honouring the sacred traditions of Eid whilst inviting guests into the warmth and depth of authentic Maldivian culture.
From dawn prayers at the resort’s mosque to an enchanting evening of traditional Langiri performance, the day was designed to offer guests and team members alike a genuine and meaningful connection to this beloved occasion — experienced against the breathtaking backdrop of the Indian Ocean.
The celebrations commenced at dawn with the Eid Prayer at the resort’s mosque, open to all guests wishing to participate in this sacred and serene moment of communal reflection. The morning continued with an Eid Cake Cutting Ceremony held immediately following prayers, inviting the entire resort community — guests and team — to gather and mark the occasion together.

As the afternoon unfolded, the energy of the island transformed with one of the day’s most spectacular highlights: the Maali Parade and Bodu Mas Beynun. Mythical creatures crafted with extraordinary artistry from coconut palm leaves paraded through the resort’s roads and Splash Beach, accompanied by the vibrant rhythms of traditional Maldivian music and dance. The spectacle drew guests into the heart of an ancient cultural tradition rarely experienced beyond local Maldivian communities.
Simultaneously, the Eid ‘Sai’ Tea offered guests a curated spread of authentic Maldivian Eid delicacies at Splash Beach — a convivial and flavourful celebration of the islands’ culinary heritage, served in true island style.
The evening was elevated further with the Special Eid Buffet Dinner at Bluefin restaurant, where a festive spread — thoughtfully crafted to honour the spirit of Eid — was laid out for guests.
The night drew to a close with an enchanting Langiri Show at Splash Bar — a traditional performance that captivated audiences with its grace and cultural depth, followed by a cultural video showcase celebrating Maldivian heritage and identity.

“Celebrating Eid Al Adha at Madifushi Private Island is always a deeply meaningful occasion for us. This is not simply an event — it is an expression of who we are and where we come from. The Maldives carries a rich and beautiful heritage, and Eid is one of those rare moments where that heritage comes alive in the most vivid and joyful way,” said Mohamed Hilmy, General Manager, Madifushi Private Island.
“We are enormously proud to share that with our guests, many of whom travel from around the world, and to offer them an experience that goes far beyond the spectacular setting of our island. To see our guests moved by the Maali parade, sharing in the Sai tea, joining us in prayer — that is what makes hospitality truly meaningful. On behalf of our entire team, we extend our warmest Eid Mubarak to all who celebrated with us, and to all those celebrating around the world.”
Madifushi Private Island is a luxury island resort nestled in the Meemu Atoll of the Republic of Maldives. Embodying the philosophy of Timeless Maldivian Heritage, the resort offers guests an exclusive sanctuary where natural beauty, cultural authenticity, and world-class hospitality converge. From overwater villas to pristine beaches and a vibrant programme of cultural and recreational experiences, Madifushi Private Island is committed to creating memories that endure long beyond the visit.
Culture
Cocoon Maldives brings Maldivian culture to life for Eid Al-Adha Celebrations
Cocoon Maldives invites guests to experience the spirit of Eid Al-Adha through a vibrant celebration inspired by authentic Maldivian culture, traditions, and island hospitality.
Bringing together local heritage and festive island experiences, the celebration will feature a lively lineup of traditional performances and interactive activities designed to immerse guests in the rich cultural identity of the Maldives. Guests will have the opportunity to witness the colourful Bodumas and Maali Parade, inspired by traditional folklore and island festivities, alongside energetic local dance performances presented by the resort’s team members.

The celebration will also include a traditional Coconut Show, the exciting Bodumas Chase performance, live DJ entertainment, and a festive gathering atmosphere complete with refreshing mocktails and island-inspired refreshments.
As part of the experience, guests can enjoy authentic cultural moments while discovering the warmth and joyful spirit of Maldivian celebrations in a unique beachfront setting. The festivities will continue into the second day with interactive activities and friendly games between guests and team members, creating memorable moments of connection and celebration.

“At Cocoon Maldives, we are delighted to celebrate Eid Al-Adha by sharing the beauty of Maldivian traditions and creating meaningful experiences for our guests,” said Ahmed Jihad, Chief Operating Officer of The Cocoon Collection. “Through cultural performances, island festivities, and shared moments of joy, we aim to offer an authentic and memorable celebration in paradise.”

Known as the first design resort in the Maldives, Cocoon Maldives continues to create immersive guest experiences that combine island luxury with local culture, bringing travellers closer to the spirit of the destination.
Culture
Joy Island Maldives to host Eid Al-Adha festivities inspired by local traditions
Joy Island Maldives invites guests to experience the joyful spirit of Eid Al-Adha through a vibrant multi-day celebration inspired by authentic Maldivian culture, island traditions, and community togetherness.
Taking place from 26th to 28th May 2026, the festive programme will immerse guests in the rich heritage of the Maldives through traditional performances, local rituals, cultural games, and lively beachfront celebrations designed for both guests and team members to enjoy together.

The festivities begin on 26th May with a special Eid Night Celebration at the Staff Beach, featuring the traditional Eid Malhi lighting ritual accompanied by live Boduberu performances. Guests will also enjoy a Bodibaiy and BBQ gathering beneath the stars, creating a warm and festive island atmosphere.
On 27th May, the celebrations continue with a traditional Eid morning programme, including Eid Prayer, Eid Breakfast, and Eid Salaam led by the resort’s leadership team. Later in the afternoon, guests will be invited to join the vibrant Eid Maali Parade at the Water Sports Beach, showcasing Bodumas performances, Maali characters, traditional ladies’ dancing, and energetic Boduberu drumming.

The cultural festivities will also feature interactive Maldivian games and activities such as Tug of War, Naashi Vehttu, Faigathalhaa, and the colourful Eid Kula Jehun celebration, encouraging guests to experience the playful and communal spirit of local island traditions.
The celebrations conclude on 28th May with a Special Maldivian Night, offering guests an immersive evening inspired by the flavours, music, and traditions of the Maldives.
“At Joy Island Maldives, we are delighted to celebrate Eid Al-Adha by sharing the warmth of Maldivian hospitality and the beauty of our local traditions with guests from around the world,” said Ahmed Jihad, Chief Operating Officer of The Cocoon Collection. “These celebrations are designed to create meaningful cultural connections and joyful moments that truly reflect the spirit of the Maldives.”

Known for its vibrant atmosphere and playful island experiences, Joy Island Maldives continues to create immersive celebrations that bring together culture, entertainment, and unforgettable memories in paradise.
-
Action1 week agoCanareef Resort highlights sea turtle conservation on World Turtle Day
-
Culture1 week agoCocoon Maldives brings Maldivian culture to life for Eid Al-Adha Celebrations
-
Culture1 week agoJoy Island Maldives to host Eid Al-Adha festivities inspired by local traditions
-
Action1 week agoW Maldives brings fast-growing sport of padel to the island
-
News1 week agoAnantara marks 25 years with global campaign celebrating experiential luxury
-
Action1 week agoInterContinental Maldives celebrates World Oceans Day with conservation-focused experiences
-
News1 week agoELE|NA named finalist in luxury and sustainability categories at global wellness awards
-
Cooking1 week agoKandima Maldives celebrates Eid with Maldivian culture, dining and entertainment


