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Sun Siyam Iru Veli Maldives appoints Ali Adam as General Manager, Victor Zanotti as Executive Chef

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Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Maldives has welcomed fantastic new additions to its management team by appointing Ali Adam – as new General Manager, and Victor Zanotti as Executive Chef.

Ali Adam, who is native Maldivian, brings a wealth of experience to Sun Siyam Iru Veli, having worked in some of the most successful resorts and fantastic brands in the Maldives, such as Dhigufaru, Vilamendhoo, Mirihi, and Vakarufalhi Island Resorts. He also held the position as Roaming General Manager for Crown & Champa Resorts overlooking the likes of Komandoo, Kuredu, Meeru, Veligandu, and Vilamendu Island Resorts.

Ali has spent the last 20 years holding managerial positions in the Maldives and comes with an overall experience of more than 24 years within the tourism and hospitality industries, displaying exemplary work ethics, and an exceptional attention to detail.

In his new role at Sun Siyam Iru Veli, he will carefully manage all day-to-day operational matters and ensure consistent delivery of the exceptional and unique guest experiences based on Iru Veli’s and Sun Siyam Resorts brand ethos of “making memories together.”

When asked about his new role at Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Ali quoted, “I am very excited to be a part of the Iru Veli family, we have such a genuine team and a lot of fantastic and creative ideas. Our goal is to provide the most memorable stay and unforgettable experiences to our guests. Iru Veli is famous for its laid-back beach chic and unbeatable premium all-inclusive value which makes it perfect for couples of all ages, honeymooners, and those celebrating a special occasion. We will continue to exceed our customer’s expectations and work hard on maintaining that standard in the industry”.

Originally from Peru, but raised in Italy, Executive Chef Victor Zanotti’s passion for food and cooking was ignited at a very young age when he found himself drawn to the kitchen to help his grandmother prepare vast courses for their often-held family dinners on their farms. Since then, he has gone on to hone his skills at some of the most exceptional dining establishments in his hometown while gathering culinary skills and experience during his time traveling the world on cruise ships. Chef Victor left Italy as Head Chef at the celebrated Elisir restaurant and made his debut in the Maldives as the Italian Specialty Chef at Vakkaru Maldives. He then moved to Cocoon Maldives as Executive Chef, before being headhunted by Raffles Maldives where he was appointed the Italian Specialty Chef, in addition to Head Chef.

Chef Victor says of his new role: “My culinary discipline and practice focusses heavily on authenticity, freshness, and sustainability, hence my gardening skills will come to fruition with Iru Veli’s farm island called Llohi, where our guests can meet the farmers and learn about the produce grown that is by now, already over 38 varieties of fruits and vegetables which are supplied to the resorts. I’m extremely excited to champion my personal values at Iru Veli and contribute to the resorts’ food & beverage offering.”

Intimately familiar with all stages of kitchen operations, Chef Victor will head and manage all kitchen operations while meticulously crafting signature menus, sourcing top-quality produce, creating mouthwatering recipes, supervising food production, developing and implementing the highest kitchen standards, while making sure green and sustainable practices are followed in his kitchens.

With these two new additions to its wonderful team, Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Maldives elevates its already sumptuous and chic guest experiences to loftier heights.

Just a 35-minute seaplane ride away from Malé Airport, the tranquil five-star island retreat of Iru Veli lies in the Dhaalu Atoll, undoubtedly one of the most naturally beautiful atolls in the Maldives. The 125 boutique suites scattered across the island and over the lagoon all feature luxurious interiors and terraces that lead directly into the warm, inviting waters of the lagoon or onto the breathtaking beaches.

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Amilla Maldives presents ‘Eid in Harmony’ island celebration

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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.

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SO/ Maldives unveils three-day Easter celebration

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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.

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Oaga Art Resort brings back Kula Kula Festival with global influences

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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.

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