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Oaga Art Resort officially opens this New Year 2023
Aanlheoa! Oaga Art Resort has opened up for the world during this new year of 2023, singing a welcome song that is their very own. A contemporary brand driven by a Maldivian team, Oaga as a concept revolves around the philosophy of organic community growth. The art resort focuses on elevating the collective story of the Maldive islands with a platform especially made to cater for local artists and craftsmen while embracing the tranquility offered by the surrounding sun, sand and beaches. Oaga Art Resort redefines the Maldivian experience with a never before seen merger of the Maldivian traditional lifestyle with the contemporary.
The resort’s new year 2023 celebration showcased a transition from the traditional ways of the forefathers to the contemporary street style which Oaga encompasses. The celebration was two-fold as they officially announced their homegrown brand to the world, inviting everyone to partake in this unique concept where there is sure to be at least one experience which would appeal to everyone.
Their greatest all-inclusive plan is testament to this, which includes experiences such as Creative Expression (art) classes, Take Notes (music) sessions, Thashibari In-Villa Dining, floating meal, choices of excursions, motorised watersports and the list goes on.
Part of the all-inclusive plan, their main restaurant, Kaa Kada, takes inspiration from the ultimate comfort of food served on a busy street. Watch the chefs behind the counter as they prepare the a la carte’ meals and enjoy it in a humble and cosy island setting.

A first of its kind, their specialty restaurant, Samaasaa, weaves together interactive literature with a fine dining experience, currently opening with the folk tales of the Maldives. Journey through Chef Zuzu’s five course meal which tells age old tales of lore depicting star-crossed lovers or mythical beasts.
Hoba Spa, their very own holistic wellness brand, offers the essence of Maldivian healing traditions passed down from generations, reimagined completely to cater to the modern day spa experience. The time tested remedial ingredients offer nostalgia which is sure to awaken the senses and ground you to these Maldivian soils. Their ‘Atharuge’ offers curated treatments using locally sourced and handmade oils which can be customised to your liking.
The villas on the island are inspired by the most beloved folktales in the history of Maldives. The Haruge Beach Villa with Private Pool invites you to dive into brightly coloured murals depicting the legend of the two lovers – Dhon Hiyala aa’i Alifulhu – full of splendour, magic, and wild creatures from the deep blue sea.
Inspired by the story of ‘Khalid and Sitti’; the Veyoge Gallery Pool Villas are fashioned after the home where these lovers spent their nights. The spaces are designed to make guests feel stimulated and safe, enhanced from the outside by an invisible mirrored exterior that recalls the magic of Khalid and Sitti’s legend.
The main bar and pool, Raa Baa boasts of the largest hand-painted mural pool in the Maldives, designed and painted by the resort’s Rahvehi resident creatives. The resort has also incorporated the visions of many local artists in other design aspects such as their furniture and walls. There are over 300 hand-painted murals to spot on the island, ranging from walls, pools, tables, chairs and even sign posts.
Oaga Art Resort caters as an authentic Maldivian product with small doses of artistic experiences and learning experiences of Maldivian history and culture. One of their main focus as CSR is to have a platform to promote local talents and give back to the local cottage industries.
Situated in North Malé Atoll, Oaga Art Resort is 45 minutes by speedboat from Malé International Airport. A small island with 60 villas with beach and over water options, 4 dining venues and a spa inspired by Maldivian traditional healing practices, Oaga Art Resort’s artistic and creative spaces offer an immersive experience curated by local and visiting artists, and craftsmen from the Maldives.
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.
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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.
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