Featured
Amilla Maldives sets up in-house Covid testing facility

Amilla Maldives Resort and Residences has made further strides in protecting the resort from Covid-19, while simultaneously improving the guest experience, with the acquisition of a RT-PCR machine.
The new Covid-19 testing machine is enabling Amilla guests to receive their results in just one to three hours, whereas previously samples had to be flown to a lab on another island (with a turnaround time of 12 to 18 hours).
The new development means guests at the Baa Atoll resort no longer need to quarantine in the comfort of their spacious villas and private gardens overnight until they receive a negative result. Instead, by the time they’ve freshened up, gone for a swim and ordered in villa dining, their results are in and they are free to access all of the resort’s facilities.
Amilla Maldives has been offering complimentary PCR tests on arrival to the island for all guests and staff ever since the Maldivian borders reopened in July.
So far, Amilla Maldives has invested more than $150,000 on providing complimentary PCR tests to provide peace of mind and safety for guests and staff alike.
The new RT-PCR machine is already proving very successful in processing samples from arrivals. It can get the results back from a group of five guests in just one hour; 10 in two hours and 15 in three hours.
Amilla is one of only a handful of resorts in the Maldives offering this sophisticated level of protection against Covid-19.
Currently, anyone travelling to the Maldives is only required to take one PCR test 96 hours prior to boarding their outbound flight, while whether to conduct additional tests on arrival or not is left up to the individual resorts to decide.
Not only does Amilla’s testing regimen mean its guests and team members are protected, but it also unlocks for guests unparalleled levels of freedom. As soon as they receive their test results, as they can roam the spacious island mask-free.
During the short period while guest await their test results at Amilla, a separate ‘bubble’ of staff welcomes them, delivers their room service meals and assists with anything else they may need. The guests are also given snorkel gear so they can enjoy the ocean while they briefly wait for their results.
And if they need a PCR test for their trip home, Amilla will arrange a test via an authorised PCR testing centre.
Amilla is using a well-regarded RT-PCR machine produced by a Randox-Bosch partnership.
Randox is based in the United Kingdom and provides clinical diagnostic solutions to laboratories and private enterprises worldwide. It has almost four decades of experience developing diagnostic solutions for hospitals, clinical, research and molecular labs, food testing, forensic toxicology and more.
The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services.
For any guests needing a PCR test for their return to their home country, Amilla can arrange testing at a government-approved facility before their departure.
Using the Randox-Bosch RT-PCT machine at Amilla, it takes just two to three hours to obtain the results for a group of new arrivals to the island. This means guests and their companions can be enjoying the large private island resort to the max the same day they arrive.
Tropical island bliss, with an assuring layer of protection in 2021.
For more information about the resort and bookings, please email sales@amilla.mv or visit www.amilla.com.
Featured
Sun Siyam unveils new identity and signature experiences

Sun Siyam has unveiled a milestone transformation as it celebrates 35 years of Maldivian hospitality. More than a visual refresh, the brand’s evolution introduces a new statement anchored in The Home of the Maldivian Spirit, reinforcing its position as one of the Maldives’ most culturally authentic resort operators. The transformation enhances guest journeys through the introduction of Signature Experiences across all six resorts and strengthens customer relationships via Siyam Rewards.
The group has unified its five Maldivian resorts and Sri Lankan retreat under a single identity, The House of Siyam. To provide greater clarity for guests and partners, properties are now grouped under three distinct collections: Luxury, Privé, and Lifestyle.
- Luxury Collection: Representing the highest calibre of island indulgence, led by Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, this collection offers premium exclusivity.
- Lifestyle Collection: Designed for energetic adventure and diverse experiences, Sun Siyam Olhuveli and Siyam World form part of this portfolio.
- Privé Collection: Centred on privacy and bespoke comfort, Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, and Sun Siyam Pasikudah in Sri Lanka comprise this category.
A central feature of the transformation is the introduction of Signature Experiences, designed to extend beyond villa stays and integrate Maldivian heritage and imagination into every visit. Guests may participate in Maldivian Roots, a weekly culinary and cultural series, book the Maldives’ first overwater photo studio, the Insta Villa, or enjoy the atmosphere at the Sun Siyam Beach Club. Other offerings include the Wow Welcome, Hidden Treasure Chests, Plant Based Bliss dining, and Moonlit Cinemas.
The brand has also launched Siyam Rewards, a digital membership programme offering personalised itineraries, room upgrades, and optional carbon offsets. Members benefit from rewards starting with their first booking. Each stay contributes to marine conservation and community projects through the group’s sustainability initiative, Sun Siyam Care.
Reflecting on this milestone, Ahmed Siyam Mohamed, Founder, Owner & Managing Director, said, “When we founded Sun Siyam in 1990 and later opened our first resort in 1998, our goal was simple: to share the warmth of our islands and our people with the world. This transformation keeps that soul alive while giving us the space to innovate for the next generation of free-spirited travellers.”
Chief Executive Officer Deepak Booneady added, “This rebrand is not just about design, it is about experience. It is about cultural authenticity, purpose-driven hospitality and creating moments that spark joy. With the Maldives’ widest choice of villas, the region’s most generous premium all-inclusive plan and now our Signature Experiences, we are setting the stage for the future of island travel.”
The redesigned website, sunsiyam.com, brings the new brand identity across all touchpoints with a look and feel that is both distinctly Maldivian and modern.
The rebrand was developed with leading industry experts: JHAGGER&CO as brand advisors; StudioSixty7, led by Lee McNichol and Jose Rivero, for interior restyling; and Dominik Ruhl, a Maldives hospitality pioneer, for operational standards and experiences. Implementation was carried out by Sun Siyam’s operations team, General Managers, Resort Managers, and brand, sales, marketing, and public relations teams, coordinated by Abdulla Thamheed, VP of Operations.
The outcome is a design system that retains Maldivian heritage while embracing a contemporary edge.
Featured
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort wins ‘Best Design Resort’ at TTM Awards

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort has been named ‘Best Design Resort’ at the TTM Awards 2025, an accolade that recognises architectural excellence combining innovation with distinctive aesthetics. The award highlights the resort’s position as one of the Maldives’ most striking luxury properties, known for its design vision and refined guest experiences.
Located on a private island in Dhaalu Atoll, the resort is distinguished by its architectural concept created by Singapore-based WOW Architects. Its design draws inspiration from the natural environment of the Maldives, incorporating organic forms and local motifs with a modern interpretation. Among the resort’s most notable structures are the Whale Bar, shaped in the likeness of a whale shark, and the overwater Iridium Spa, designed to resemble a seashell, both exemplifying the seamless integration of luxury and nature.
The property’s design approach extends across its 77 private villas, positioned to offer either ocean or jungle views. Each villa is designed to blend with the island landscape, integrating sustainable elements while maintaining comfort, privacy, and style. The resort’s spaces reflect a balance between contemporary lines and Maldivian influences, creating a distinct sense of place.
The TTM Awards, presented annually during Travel Trade Maldives (TTM), recognise outstanding contributions to the region’s hospitality sector. This year’s award reinforces The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s reputation as a leader in design and attention to detail.
Since its opening, the resort has become known for uncompromising luxury, featuring celebrated dining options, an extensive wine cellar, and curated experiences supported by the signature St. Regis Butler Service. The recognition at the TTM Awards 2025 further strengthens its status as a global benchmark in design-led hospitality.
Featured
Festive escapes await at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa has announced its Festive Early Bird package, inviting guests to celebrate the holiday season amidst tropical gardens and white sandy beaches. Available for stays between 20 December 2025 and 10 January 2026, the offer combines dining, family-friendly experiences, and wellness, creating a seamless festive escape.
The package includes a full-board meal plan across the resort’s restaurants. Children aged 11 and under stay and dine with compliments when sharing accommodation with their parents, reinforcing the family-focused spirit of the season.
Each day begins with a buffet breakfast at Feast, featuring fresh juices, coffees, and teas. Lunch is served à la carte across four venues, with menus showcasing Mediterranean, Indian, Mexican, and Asian-inspired cuisine. Evenings offer either a buffet dinner at Feast or a curated three-course à la carte menu at selected outlets. Adults also receive dining credits to experience the distinctive Thai flavours of Baan Thai or seafood specialities at Sea Salt.
Guests benefit from complimentary shared speedboat transfers from Velana International Airport, ensuring a smooth arrival. During their stay, they may enjoy activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, snorkelling, and tennis. Additional relaxation awaits at Shine Spa for Sheraton, where a 15% saving is available on selected treatments.
The resort has tailored the festive programme with carefully considered details, blending leisure, cuisine, and wellness to create lasting memories. The Festive Early Bird package reflects the essence of a Maldivian holiday, combining turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and moments of celebration.
Reservations for the Festive Early Bird package are open until 15 October 2025, offering guests the opportunity to secure a seasonal retreat at Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa.
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