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Vishen Mootoo appointed sales, marketing director for Olhuveli Maldives
Sun Siyam Resorts has appointed Vishen Mootoo as the Director of Sales and Marketing for Olhuveli Beach & Spa Maldives.
With over 15 years’ experience building his career in the field of sales and marketing, Vishen brings a wealth of knowledge and experience. He has been associated with leading brands such as Sun Resorts, Centara Hotels & Resorts, The Small Maldives Island Co. (Amilla Fushi and Finolhu Maldives), and most recently at VARU by Atmosphere.
Taking up the position of Director of Sales and Marketing for Olhuveli, Vishen will oversee relationships with key partners, develop sales growth strategies, and will be actively involved in marketing the much enhanced four-star deluxe property.
The resort has undergone major changes with an increase in room inventory and support facilities, creating a well sought after diamond all-inclusive resort with affordable luxury in mind.
“I am thrilled to be part of the Sun Siyam Resorts. As a passionate hotelier, my aim is to build a stronger presence in the international platform. Another great project to be associated with and working closely with all our partners worldwide, I am enthusiastic to take on this role and good times are ahead of us all,” Vishen was quoted in a statement, as saying.
Passionate, results driven and consistent, Vishen is multi-lingual; in addition to his native Mauritian Creole, he is proficient in French and German.
“We are confident that with his impressive experience we will be able to achieve great results. He will be supported by the resort sales and marketing team, along with head office business development,” the statement issued by Sun Siyam Resorts read.
Set in the turquoise heart of the Indian Ocean that is the Maldives, Olhuveli is situated at the tip of South Male Atoll, accessible by a 45-minute exhilarating speedboat transfer from the main Velana International Airport.
Beautifully designed villas line the powder white sand beach of the island or stand over its turquoise lagoon, fusing modern flair with traditional architecture. It is truly a place where mind and body can relax, the senses can be invigorated and spirit will feel soothed.
At Olhuveli, a myriad of facilities and leisure activities is provided to suit all needs and desires. The Sun Spa boast eight secluded and private spa pavilions along with steam room, sauna, hydrotherapy, a spa boutique as well as a beauty salon. The PADI/SSI diamond dive centre is fully equipped to serve even the most professional diver with a multi-lingual team of experienced and friendly instructors. A wide range of water sports are also available including kite surfing as well as varieties of land sports and off-island excursions for a well deserved break.
The resort has been recently expanded, with the addition of is own private Dream Island. This little island, which connects to the main island of Olhuveli by a walkway bridge, is home to a collection of brand new Grand Water Villas and Grand Water Villas with Pools. A dedicated overwater spa, buffet restaurant, a la carte grill restaurant, bar, swimming pool and conference centre complete the Dream Island offering.
Olhuveli is part of local resort chain Sun Siyam Resorts, which has a portfolio of boutique luxury resorts in the Maldives and Sri Lanka. In addition to Olhuveli, the group runs The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives, Sun Aqua Vilu Reef Maldives as well as the newly opened Sun Aqua Iru Veli in the Maldives, and Sun Aqua Pasikudah in Sri Lanka.
Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will mark the festive season with a programme that combines charitable initiatives with its sustainability commitments. Guests will be invited to donate, run, paddle and plant in support of local community and environmental projects, alongside dining experiences that highlight Maldivian produce.
Under its World of Care commitments, the resort has adopted initiatives to improve the school experience for children at R. Maduvvari School on the neighbouring island and to protect the surrounding marine ecosystem. Participation in the season’s activities will contribute directly to these programmes.
From 25 December 2025 to 7 January 2026, guests may purchase wrapped gifts from a Christmas Charity Surprise Tree, with all proceeds directed to the resort’s charitable causes.
On 27 December 2025, Euro Divers will lead a coral-planting session within the house reef. The activity forms part of an ongoing conservation effort to strengthen reef resilience by increasing coral diversity through the careful planting of hardy coral fragments.
Seasalt restaurant will host a “Boat to Table” beachfront barbecue on 28 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. The buffet will feature seafood such as giant tuna sashimi, ceviche and grilled fish prepared from the day’s catch supplied by local fishermen, reflecting the resort’s focus on local sourcing and support for the Raa Atoll community.
A Charity Kayak Race will take place on 30 December 2025 and 5 January 2026. Entry will be by voluntary donation, with funds supporting enhancements at the R. Maduvvari pre-school.
On 2 January 2026, the programme will conclude with a Charity Island Fun Run around the island. Branded t-shirts will be available for purchase, with proceeds benefiting the resort’s community initiatives.
Mercure Maldives Kooddoo Resort has received three titles at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, named Luxury Adults Only Resort, Luxury Island Resort, and Luxury Cultural Resort in the Indian Ocean.
The awards highlight the brand’s focus on locally rooted hospitality, with stays shaped by place, service and community. The resort presents Maldivian culture through curated experiences, pairing contemporary comforts with island traditions.
Positioned as an adults-only retreat, Mercure Maldives Kooddoo integrates culinary influences and cultural programming to offer guests a stay informed by the rhythm of local life and delivered with consistent service standards.
“These awards are a true reflection of our team’s passion for creating experiences that feel both local and memorable. Every detail, from the design to the service, is guided by the authenticity that defines Mercure. We are grateful to our guests for being part of this journey,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, honouring properties that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and celebrate diversity across the travel sector.
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has received three honours at the 2025 World Luxury Awards, securing titles for Best Luxury All-Inclusive Hotel, Best Luxury Wellness Hotel, and Best Luxury Family Hotel in the Indian Ocean.
The awards underscore the resort’s approach to experience-led hospitality, combining design, wellbeing and guest engagement. The recognition also reflects Pullman’s commitment to innovation, inclusivity and sustainability, which sit at the centre of the brand’s strategy.
Since opening, Pullman Maldives Maamutaa has developed an all-inclusive offering that brings together adventure, wellness and a close connection to the natural environment. Its portfolio includes an underwater villa, wellness concepts and family-oriented experiences.
“We are honoured to receive this recognition at the 2025 World Luxury Awards. These awards celebrate the heart of what we do—creating inspiring moments for every guest, whether they come to reconnect, recharge, or simply play. This achievement belongs to our incredible team, whose passion and dedication make Pullman Maldives Maamutaa what it is today,” said Riaan Drever, Cluster General Manager.
The World Luxury Awards recognise excellence in global hospitality, highlighting hotels that consistently deliver strong guest experiences and demonstrate innovation in service and design.
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