Featured
Carpe Diem Beach Resort to transform into The Standard Maldives in Fall 2019

Carpe Diem Beach Resort and Spa is set to change hands in Fall 2019, as it transforms into the first Asian property in US-based The Standard Hotels’ portfolio.
Carpe Diem Beach Resort, developed by local hospitality group Carpe Diem Maldives, opened in late 2018. The resort has been welcoming guests ever since.
Following its groundbreaking London debut, Standard International, the parent company of The Standard, is set to mark its entry into Asia with the rebranding of Carpe Diem Beach Resort which will see it being opened as The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives in Fall 2019.
The resort, featuring 115 private villas, is a short seaplane flight away from the Maldives’ main Velana International Airport, nestled between the Raa and Baa atolls, on a naturally protected island.
“It is such a treat within the same year to show the world what The Standard can be in on one of the busiest places and one of the most tranquil places on the planet,” Amar Lalvani, CEO of Standard International, was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“What makes me so proud is that despite the vast difference in setting, the culture of both are unmistakably Standard.”

Whilst the Maldives has traditionally been a couple’s destination, as always, The Standard has approached the development with a fresh set of eyes. The resort offers an unmatched combination of tranquility, social life and vibrant cultural programming that welcomes groups of friends or singles looking to meet others or just reset and recharge in paradise.
The lobby is airy and intimate, and accessible 24-hours a day. Each of the 115 villas features its own private lounge deck and plunge pool, and the six unique culinary offerings range from a beach front BBQ shack serving freshly caught seafood, to our take on Maldivian cuisine that showcases ingredients sourced directly from our island farm.
The resort offers guided diving snorkelling through our naturally protected house reef to sunset boat excursions to uninhabited islands and undiscovered reefs, as well as night fishing and private destination dining. The Standard Spa offers a communal hammam, aroma steam room, daily yoga, personal training and nine private treatment rooms.
No Standard experience would be complete without nightlife, from tribal beats at a beach bonfire to a glass bottom nightclub. And a disco ball above your bath tub, for your own private party.
The Standard, Huruvalhi Maldives marks the brand’s first property in Asia and its first island escape. It is the company’s next destination within its extensive global pipeline, which includes Milan, Paris, Lisbon, Bordeaux, Mexico City, Jakarta, Ko Samui, Phuket, Hua Hin and Chicago, to name a few.
Celebration
Gourmet journeys and island traditions define festive season at Kandolhu Maldives

Kandolhu Maldives has unveiled its festive programme for the 2025 holiday season, running from 19 December through to the New Year, promising guests a celebration filled with style, warmth, and Maldivian charm. The island’s festive calendar blends gourmet dining, ocean adventures, and cultural experiences, creating an atmosphere that captures the essence of Kandolhu — Shaped by the Sea.
Throughout the festive period, the resort’s culinary team will host an exceptional series of themed dining events. Guests can enjoy “Taste of the Sea” seafood nights and “Lobster & Sparkling Wine” evenings at Sea Grill, an authentic Indian Thali experience and a pan-Asian night at The Market, and “Chapoutier Uncorked” at Olive — a curated wine journey through the Rhône Valley and other European vineyards of M. Chapoutier. Ata Roa will also host a hands-on Ceviche Masterclass, where participants can learn to prepare this classic dish and craft the perfect Pisco Sour.
On Christmas Eve, the celebrations will begin with a cocktail party followed by a Gala Dinner on the beach, featuring an array of international festive dishes and grilled favourites. The merriment continues on Christmas Day with a beachside buffet at Vilu Bar, allowing guests to dine under the stars in true island style.
As the year draws to a close, Kandolhu will host an elegant New Year’s Eve celebration, beginning with cocktails and a six-course degustation dinner, followed by live music and a DJ set to welcome 2026 in spectacular fashion. Guests can ease into the new year with a leisurely late breakfast on 1 January.
Those seeking wellness and adventure will find plenty of experiences through the Noovilu sports centre, offering guided snorkelling with manta rays, sunset kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. At Varu Spa, relaxation takes centre stage with treatments such as the “Rose Indulgent Scrub,” “Muscle Boost” deep tissue massage, and the “Varu Haven” couples’ experience.
Adding a cultural touch, the festive schedule includes a palm-leaf Christmas decoration workshop and a traditional Maldivian Boduberu drum and dance performance.
Combining fine dining, meaningful experiences, and island-inspired festivities, Kandolhu Maldives promises a magical holiday season filled with memorable moments and refined celebration.
Action
OZEN LIFE MAADHOO debuts Wind Villa with Jacuzzi & Slide

OZEN LIFE MAADHOO has announced the introduction of its newest villa category, the Wind Villa with Jacuzzi & Slide, offering guests a playful yet luxurious twist to their Maldivian getaway. Designed for travellers seeking both relaxation and excitement, the new villa combines captivating ocean views with dynamic features for an unforgettable island experience.
Located at the edge of the island, the Wind Villa enjoys a prime sunrise position and includes a spacious bedroom with high ceilings, an elegant outdoor lounge, and direct access to the lagoon’s clear waters. The addition of a private Jacuzzi and waterslide adds an element of adventure and intimacy, ideal for couples or small families in search of both tranquillity and fun.
Guests can unwind on the sun-drenched deck, enjoy a soothing soak under the Maldivian skies, or take a refreshing slide into the turquoise lagoon, surrounded by the serene beauty of Maadhoo’s shimmering waters.
Stéphane Laguette, Chief Commercial Officer of Atmosphere Core, commented: “Imagining the children’s faces when they see for the first time the striking blue lagoon off the terrace and the bonus of sliding directly into the warm, calm waters below is a joy in itself. What’s even more delightful is the thought of adults embracing the same experience – sliding by day, then later cuddling beneath the starlit Maldivian sky in a hot Jacuzzi, bubbles all around – including in their flute glass! We are thrilled to introduce the Wind Villa with Jacuzzi & Slide, a fresh take on luxury that fuses private leisure with a sense of adventure. This new category reflects our commitment to creating memorable experiences for families and couples seeking a vibrant or romantic island retreat.”
The launch of the Wind Villa coincides with the upcoming holiday season and follows recent enhancements across the resort, including new pool additions to the Earth Villas. OZEN LIFE MAADHOO continues to evolve its offerings to elevate the guest experience.
With its contemporary design, luxurious comforts, and imaginative features, the Wind Villa with Jacuzzi & Slide offers a refreshing balance of indulgence and exhilaration—an experience that perfectly captures the resort’s philosophy of joyful island living.
Stay More & Pay Less with 20% savings when booking directly. These one-of-a-kind exclusive rates ensure a perfectly tailored Maldivian escape. Discover more at theozencollection.com.
Awards
Sun Siyam Group shines at Global Peace Hospitality Summit with multiple international awards

In a distinguished evening celebrating global unity and purpose, Sun Siyam Group and its Founder and Chairman, Ahmed Siyam Mohamed, received top honours at the Global Peace Hospitality Summit & Awards 2025, held in Dubai. Organised by the Global Peace Institute (UK) in partnership with Impact Hub UAE, the summit welcomed over 200 leaders and delegates from 46 nations under the theme “Peace Through Hospitality.”
Siyam was awarded three of the night’s highest distinctions — the Golden Sail of Distinction and two Lifetime Achievement Awards for Hospitality & Service Excellence and Entrepreneurship & Business Innovation. He was the only recipient to receive all three accolades.
These awards recognised Siyam’s pioneering role in shaping the Maldives into a world-class tourism destination, as well as his longstanding contributions to national development, philanthropy, and youth empowerment. His leadership continues to exemplify how business success can align with sustainability and social progress to create lasting, positive impact.
In addition to these individual honours, Sun Siyam Group achieved six major awards across its resort portfolio, reaffirming its reputation as a leader in peace-driven hospitality and sustainable luxury.
The recognised resorts included:
- Siyam World Maldives – World’s Leading Lifestyle Resort
- Sun Siyam Pasikudah, Sri Lanka – Luxury Beachfront Retreat of the Year
- Sun Siyam Vilu Reef – Peaceful Indulgence Award
- Sun Siyam Iru Fushi – Luxury Peace Retreat
- Sun Siyam Iru Veli – Maldives’ Leading All-Inclusive Luxury Resort
- Sun Siyam Olhuveli – Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Lifestyle Resort
Siyam was joined at the event by his wife, Soukayna Hadfi, Vice President of Operations Abdulla Thamheed, Assistant Group General Manager and Sun Siyam Olhuveli General Manager Hassan Adil, and members of the brand’s Middle East sales and PR representation team, proudly representing Maldivian hospitality on the global stage.
The evening also witnessed the launch of the Golden Wing of Peace Movement, a new international initiative designed to unite leaders, creators, and institutions around conscious leadership and community-centred business. The gala featured two Wings of Harmony fashion showcases by Egyptian designer Nadine Ellithy, symbolising compassion, culture, and creativity as universal expressions of peace. The keynote address was delivered by General Dr Mohammed Al Shamsi, who highlighted the UAE’s growing role as a global exemplar of coexistence.
The Global Peace Institute (UK), an independent non-profit organisation promoting peace, diplomacy, and education, has previously hosted successful summits in London, Scotland, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Its Dubai edition reflected the deepening connection between hospitality and mindful leadership in a global context.
For Sun Siyam Group, the honours mark yet another milestone in a journey defined by Maldivian authenticity, mindful luxury, and purposeful hospitality — continuing a legacy of welcome, integrity, and global connection.
-
Entertainment1 week ago
Joy, creativity and connection define JOALI Maldives’ ‘Rise & Shine’ festive journey
-
Entertainment1 week ago
Swiss cellist JODOKCELLO to perform at Alila Kothaifaru Maldives
-
Entertainment1 week ago
Centara Maldives unveils season of celebration across four island paradises
-
Featured1 week ago
InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort marks Mental Health Day with Tai Chi for inner peace
-
Culture1 week ago
SO/ Maldives illuminates Diwali with culinary delights, festive spirits, chic island vibes
-
Cooking1 week ago
Grégory Doyen brings his sweet artistry to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort
-
Entertainment1 week ago
Spooky celebrations await at Sun Siyam Olhuveli with ‘The Return of the Mummy’
-
Excursions1 week ago
From first visit to thousand dives: Love story anchored at Bandos Maldives