Featured
JOALI BEING reflects leading-edge global wellness trends: Sound therapy, breathwork
At JOALI BEING, the only nature immersive wellbeing island retreat of its kind in the Maldives, the journey of transcendence is supported by a philosophy. All treatments, therapies and experiences are woven around the Four Pillars of JOALI BEING – Mind, Skin, Microbiome and Energy.
Along with infusing established practices, the island’s transformative venues open doors to new pathways of wellbeing.
“At JOALI BEING, curiosity and wonder lead the way,” says General Manager Özgür Cengiz, noting that all the signature Immersion Programmes are highly customisable.
Wellbeing seekers are invited to discover, explore and learn, with the ultimate aim of achieving “weightlessness” – a sense of joy and freedom.
JOALI BEING’s distinctive offering reflects several of the recent global wellbeing; Sound Therapy and Breathwork are ones of the most notable of those.
As the world enters a new era of balance-focused and immersive wellbeing experiences, Sound Therapy is at the forefront with ambient wellness music, soundscapes, and personalised healing sessions, fuelled by a growing body of scientific evidence. Research has shown a broad range of positive impacts of sound healing, from boosting mental health to improving mind and body balance.
Guests at JOALI BEING can experience the healing power of sound at two exceptional venues, created in collaboration with the retreat’s sound healing visionary.
The Sound Therapy Hall provides a mesmerising space to restore inner balance through a harmony of music and vibration.
The Discovery Sound Path consists of an outdoor sound therapy oasis, resonating with the natural rhythms of the island. The palm-fringed trail offers opportunities to interact with 9 unique types of instruments.
“This is my favourite spot on the island. It makes me feel recovered at a soul-deep level,” shares Özgür.

The sound journey continues in the thoughtfully designed accommodations. In-villa instruments encourage guests to rediscover the delight of spontaneous music healing.
Additionally, each of the 39 treatment rooms is equipped with signature sound instruments aligned with planetary frequencies and in synergy with its location on the island.
The second Breathwork has been labelled by some experts as “the new yoga”. Breathing is such an essential part of life, yet somehow overlooked in the rush of the modern world. Top medical schools agree that the way we breathe has a profound impact on our physical and mental health.
Applied breathwork can boost personal wellbeing in a variety of ways: by easing stress and anxiety, soothing chronic pain, and elevating focus and clarity. With the advent of breath gathering and even festivals, breathwork is poised at the new frontier of wellness.
At JOALI BEING, breathing takes centre stage at the Ocean Sala. Gazing out at endless seascapes of turquoise, the over-water meditation deck offers an ideal spot to re-discover this fundamental wellbeing practice. With every inhale and exhale, learn to unlock energy and vitality, creating a sense of balance and rejuvenation.
JOALI BEING is set to redefine wellbeing in the Maldives starting late 2021 and is now open for bookings. To reserve your stay, please visit the website www.joalibeing.com.
Featured
Amilla Maldives presents ‘Eid in Harmony’ island celebration
Amilla Maldives is inviting guests to mark Eid al-Fitr with a series of island celebrations under the theme Eid in Harmony, bringing together cultural experiences, family activities and festive dining.
Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is widely celebrated across the Maldives as a time of gathering and shared moments. At Amilla Maldives, the occasion will be observed through a programme of relaxed events designed to reflect the atmosphere of island life and community.
During the celebrations, guests will be able to take part in cultural performances, family-friendly activities and island gatherings highlighting Maldivian traditions. These will include performances of Bodu Beru, interactive island games and creative workshops that offer visitors insight into local culture.
The resort will also present a range of culinary experiences for the occasion. Chefs will prepare festive dishes inspired by both regional and Maldivian flavours, with dining experiences ranging from relaxed daytime offerings by the beach to evening dinners served under the stars.
Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the celebrations are designed to offer guests an opportunity to experience the traditions and atmosphere of Eid in a natural island setting.
Guests interested in the full programme of celebrations can access the resort’s Eid 2026 brochure online.
Featured
SO/ Maldives unveils three-day Easter celebration
SO/ Maldives has announced a three-day Easter programme taking place from 3 to 5 April 2026, featuring dining experiences, sunset gatherings, beach cinema and family activities across the island.
Set against the backdrop of the Maldives’ lagoon waters, the programme is designed to combine culinary events, music and leisure activities, offering guests a variety of experiences over the Easter long weekend.
The celebrations begin on Good Friday, 3 April, with the Ocean Harvest & Wine Soirée at Citronelle Club. The event features a five-course seafood dinner inspired by South African cuisine, accompanied by a curated wine pairing hosted by a master sommelier. The experience will be limited to 20 guests.
Later in the evening, entertainment will continue at Lazuli Beach Club, where the Vintage Nights at Lazuli event will feature curated wines and DJ music in a beachfront setting.
On Saturday, 4 April, guests will be invited to a Golden Hour Sundowner at the Pavilion Bar, where cocktails will be served during sunset overlooking the lagoon.
The evening will continue with the Starlit Holy Saturday Feast at Lazuli Beach Club, featuring a three-course dinner served outdoors. The programme will conclude with an open-air beach cinema experience, where guests can watch a film on the beach accompanied by popcorn and refreshments.
The programme concludes on Easter Sunday, 5 April, with a series of events along the island’s shoreline. The evening begins with Easter Bloom Cocktail Hours, offering floral-inspired drinks prepared with fruit and botanical ingredients.
The highlight of the celebrations will be the Easter Grand Beach Barbecue at Citronelle Club, featuring grilled dishes served in a seaside setting. The event will also include live saxophone performances and music.
Throughout the weekend, children will have access to a dedicated programme at The Nest, where activities will include Easter crafts, egg decorating, dance sessions and an Easter egg hunt. Additional activities such as face painting, piñata games and creative workshops will also be available.
Through its Easter programme, SO/ Maldives aims to provide a mix of dining, entertainment and family-friendly activities, offering guests the opportunity to mark the holiday while enjoying the island setting.
Featured
Oaga Art Resort brings back Kula Kula Festival with global influences
Kula Kula Festival will return for its fourth edition at Oaga Art Resort from 20 to 25 March, bringing together cultural influences from the Maldives, Brazil and India in a programme centred on art, music and community.
The festival combines the traditions of Eid al-Fitr, the vibrant spirit of Brazilian Carnaval, and the colours of Holi, creating a multi-cultural celebration that highlights performance, heritage and shared experiences.
The programme begins with Eid-related traditions, inviting guests to take part in cultural rituals and performances inspired by Maldivian heritage. The festival continues its collaboration with Kiyavahi Culture Studio, which will present workshops, demonstrations and interactive installations showcasing traditional Maldivian crafts and storytelling.
Guests will have opportunities to explore cultural practices such as Fangi Viyun (thatch weaving), Roanu Veshun (coir rope making), Kasabu Gethun (lacquer work) and Thundu Kunaa Viyun (mat weaving). Through these sessions, participants will also learn about the history and cultural significance of these crafts.
The festival begins with Eid Malhi, a bonfire lit by Oaga’s Rahvehin on 19 March to mark the sighting of the new moon. This is followed by Eid prayers and Eid Sai, a traditional breakfast at Kaa Kada. Throughout the day, guests can take part in activities such as Eid Kulhivaru beach games and Fen Kulhi, which combines water and colour play. The Maali Parade, inspired by Maldivian folklore, will lead guests to a high tea gathering at Raa Baa Beach featuring live performances and traditional attire experiences.
Live entertainment forms a central part of the festival programme, with performances from local and international artists. Guests will experience Boduberu fusion performances by Nuff and Ciam, storytelling rhythms by the Harunulaa Boduberu Group, and electronic music performances by Digital Flock during the Kula Kula Rave.

Dhivehi music will also be featured through performances by solo artist Naffah, while storyteller Amney will share Maldivian folklore through music sessions at O’Fire.
Indian classical music will be represented by sitar player Kalyan, who will perform across multiple sessions during the festival. Brazilian performer Alikko will introduce elements of Brazilian culture through fire shows and performances accompanying dining experiences at Kaa Kada.
Dining experiences will also highlight cultural diversity, with lunch and dinner services featuring themed presentations such as Eid Jaafaiy and Indian-inspired cuisine prepared in collaboration with Kalyan.
Evening programmes will include live music, fire performances, communal barbecues and a collaborative live art and music showcase titled Unethical Projection, featuring both resident and guest artists.
For the first time at the festival, Brazilian Carnaval will be incorporated into the programme. The segment will feature a Brazilian-inspired buffet at Kaa Kada, performances by Alikko and a Kula Kula Rave hosted by Digital Flock.
The final days of the festival will bring together Maldivian, Indian and Brazilian cultural influences under the theme Made of Many, Felt as One. Activities will include music sessions, collaborative performances featuring the Rav drum with Nuff, and storytelling by Amney.
The festival will conclude with a Deserted Day Picnic at Hastheem Sandbank, where guests can enjoy watersports, snacks and DJ sets by Afruh.
Through its programme of performances, cultural workshops and shared experiences, the Kula Kula Festival continues to position itself as a platform for artistic expression and cultural exchange, reflecting the creative identity of Oaga Art Resort.
-
News1 week agoNiva Dhigali Maldives to host wellness week with Gemma Merna this June
-
Drink1 week agoGerman winemaker Patrick Heitlinger to headline exclusive dinner at SO/ Maldives
-
Cooking1 week agoChef Giorgio Servetto brings Michelin-starred dining to Atmosphere Core’s underwater restaurants
-
News1 week agoInterContinental Maldives celebrates Women’s Day through creative expression
-
Family1 week agoRoyal Island introduces Easter escape with up to 25% savings
-
Cooking1 week agoBa’theli by the Reef at Milaidhoo Maldives introduces family-style Maldivian fine dining
-
Family1 week agoGrand Park Kodhipparu transforms into an Easter island wonderland
-
Drink6 days agoGerman winemaker Patrick Jacklin to host exclusive tasting at Constance Moofushi


