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Oaga Art Resort’s remarkable first year: Local talent flourishes in Maldives

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In a world where the hospitality industry’s tides ebb and flow, Oaga Art Resort, a self-made local brand of Maldives, boldly flung open its doors to the world in January 2023, daring to redefine the very essence of luxury. This artistic haven in a short span of time has scored two feathers in its cap at the Maldives Tourism Awards 2023, an event hosted by the Maldives Tourism Ministry to commemorate National Tourism Day. One, for having the highest number of Maldivian employees at a tourist resort in the Maldives, and the other, for promoting local visual artists.

Having accomplished this feat in just a few months of operation is a testament to Oaga’s vision to cater authentic local experiences, stories and artistry to travellers by local islanders themselves. The concept instils the qualities, heritage and culture involved in providing hospitality to guests which have been practised in the Maldivian society throughout the ages.

The accounts of historians such as H.C.P. Bell or François Pyrard de Laval hold testament to the fact that the local community within the isles of Maldives were hospitable and friendly towards visiting travellers. Oaga translates this in the current hospitality context, giving priority to hire locals in order to effectively tap into the roots of the culture. Currently, 91% of the team are Maldivian.

At Oaga, each employee forms part of a community of islanders or ‘Rahvehin’ who are empowered to be mindful, open, creative and empathetic towards each other as well as visiting travellers. For the traveller, the difference is infinitely better, allowing for deeper connections with Maldivian culture and heritage through the stories surrounding the infrastructure and the islanders themselves.

The concept of Oaga also embodies that the meaning of being ‘Maldivian’ is ever changing, by embracing the creativity of local artists and craft makers. Murals by local artists have been incorporated within the walls of the Haruge Villas, depicting traditional Maldivian folklore spoken through the ages in their own style and method.

The Suvāsthi Art & Retail Gallery features 100% owned Maldivian brands, from small-scale businesses to more established ones, who create contemporary products as their own homage to Maldivian flora, fauna and traditions.

Suvāsthi also curates the largest local art collection held at a resort in Maldives, at Oaga. These artworks are exhibited tastefully on the walls of the resort’s Veyoge Garden Villas, offering an immersive and intimate artful experience to travellers.

This unique concept offers the world a chance to interact with and even own an authentic piece of local artwork. It also opened up a new platform for local artists to display their art and Oaga contributes $1 for each artwork in display, for each occupied night of the Veyoge Garden Villas. Of note, this is also the first time in Maldivian history where local art has been insured.

As per the management, “When we embarked on this journey to enter the tourism industry for the first time, our research showed that most hotels within the Maldivian industry are quite similar in concept and are owned and operated by large global hotel chains. We wanted to stand out from this and to establish a local brand within these giants. In doing so, we really wanted to focus on promoting the invaluable contributions already being made within the industry by local creatives, musicians and craftsmen as the root of our concept”.

For Maldives lovers searching for an all-inclusive holiday, Oaga Art Resort’s Greatest All-Inclusive plan re-defines the limits of what All-Inclusive is all about; with inclusions such as Free Flow (art) classes, Take Notes (music) experiences, In-Villa Dining to floating meal, choices of excursions, motorised watersports and many more. 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, 5 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.

Guests looking to book the resort can visit the website, www.oagaresorts.com to book your stay, don’t miss out!

Entertainment

DJ Lara Fraser and Giorgio Chiarello headline music and mixology week at Niva Dhigali Maldives

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This October, Niva Dhigali Maldives invites guests to embrace the island’s natural rhythm as internationally renowned DJ, producer and radio host DJ Lara Fraser joins Italy’s most awarded flair bartender Giorgio Chiarello for an exclusive week of music, mixology and island celebration. From 25th to 31st October 2026, the duo will bring their signature artistry to the heart of the island with sunset DJ sessions at Haali Bar, curated cocktail experiences, and a vibrant Halloween party at East Bar.

Perched on the western edge of the island, Haali Bar is one of Niva Dhigali’s most iconic spaces – a place where the sky melts into shades of gold and coral, naturally shaped by the sea. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon each evening, guests will be immersed in Lara’s signature open-format sound, blending dance, house and hip hop into sunset sets designed to flow with the energy of the ocean and the golden light of dusk, while Giorgio crafts a curated selection of signature cocktails with his celebrated flair.

Known for performing on some of the world’s most prestigious stages – including the Red Bull Stage, McLaren’s Trafalgar Square takeover, the Monaco and Las Vegas Grand Prix, Wembley Arena, Royal Ascot, the Cannes Film Festival and global Fashion Weeks – Lara brings an internationally celebrated energy to the island, creating unforgettable moments as day drifts into night.

Complementing the week’s soundtrack, Italy’s most awarded flair bartender Giorgio Chiarello returns to Niva Dhigali with his signature artistry and cocktail mastery. Globally celebrated for his flair performances and expertise in American-style mixology, Giorgio will present a curated selection of signature cocktails at Haali Bar, where guests can watch his dynamic showmanship unfold against the backdrop of uninterrupted sunset views.

At Niva Dhigali, every moment moves with ease – from tranquil mornings by the lagoon to golden sunsets at Haali and lively nights at East Bar – creating memories shaped by nature, music, flavour and the freedom of island life.

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Culture

Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa invites guests to immersive Eid island celebrations

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Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa invites families to celebrate Eid al‑Adha rooted in celebrating culture and heritage with an uplifting blend of flavours, seaside adventures, and imaginative activities for young explorers, complete with family‑friendly villas and the recently unveiled six‑bedroom residence, an exclusive sanctuary perfect for bringing everyone together.

On May 27th families are invited to gather for an Eid Feast, where the rich culinary heritage of the Middle East comes alive. Talented chefs from the region present authentic dishes crafted from treasured traditional recipes.

The vibrant market-style dinner features:

  • A live grill with shish tawook, lamb kebab, and chermoula fish
  • A lively falafel bazaar and shawarma station
  • Middle Eastern favourites such as mezze, dolma, chicken kabsa rice, and lamb tagine
  • A sweet finale of umm Ali, basbousa, and more

Adding to the magic of the evening, families will be treated to live entertainment, creating an unforgettable celebration under the stars.

Family‑Friendly Adventures

At the heart of the resort’s family offering is the Krakengiri Kids’ Club, one of the largest in the Maldives, where young guests are invited to explore a vibrant program designed to spark creativity and curiosity.

During Eid, the Kids’ Club comes alive with a festive blend of cultural discovery and joyful celebration. Children can take part in hands-on activities inspired by Maldivian traditions, including Eid card making, intricate henna art, and traditional palm leaf weaving.

Extending beyond the Kids’ Club, families are invited to immerse themselves in the spirit of Eid through a lively, culturally inspired “Bodu Mas” and “Maali” parade. Rooted in time-honoured Maldivian island celebrations, this vibrant procession brings together guests of all ages with drumming, dancing, and imaginative costumes, capturing the essence of how communities across the Maldives traditionally mark the occasion.

This thoughtfully curated family programming offers a meaningful connection to local culture, creating memorable Eid moments filled with creativity, togetherness, and authentic island spirit.

Wellbeing Journeys

Guests can embark on deeply rejuvenating body and mind experiences at Amingiri Spa & Hammam.

Inspired by time-honoured Maldivian beauty rituals, the Ultimate Summer Glow experience embraces the nourishing power of coconut, long used by Maldivian women in traditional body treatments through oils and scrubs passed down for generations. This 120-minute journey begins with a morning yoga session, followed by a revitalising coconut body scrub, a choice of spirulina wrap or hydration facial, and concludes with a personalised 60-minute massage for complete rejuvenation.

The spa’s signature Age Defying Body Treatment offers a luxurious 90‑minute journey designed to deeply hydrate and rejuvenate the skin. Organic shea butter is used in an indulgent conditioning massage, while lotus, ginkgo, and clinically proven botanical extracts work together to firm, plump, and smooth for a youthful glow. The ritual is completed with an infusion of biodynamic flower essences, calming the nervous system and supporting gentle detoxification.

Guests may also choose from an extensive menu of salon services, restorative hammam rituals, calming massages, and dedicated sleep‑wellness experiences designed to encourage deep rest.

The Residence, A Private Haven for Family Celebrations

This Eid, Hilton Maldives Amingiri Resort & Spa presents The Residence for families seeking exceptional privacy and exclusivity, with every element of the stay tailored to the individual preferences of each guest.

Located in its own secluded cove and accessed via a private arrival pier, The Residence spans over 4,000 sqm and accommodates up to 12 guests, offering the intimacy of a private island with effortless access to the resort’s world‑class dining, leisure, and wellness facilities.

Dedicated Guest Experience Makers personalise every moment, from private meals and curated spa rituals to bespoke island adventures, allowing families to design their own unforgettable Eid celebration.

Villas Designed for Families

Families can select from an array of spacious villas designed for comfort and connection:

  • One‑Bedroom Family Beach Pool Villa: Perfect for two adults and two children under 12, featuring a king bed, sofa bed, private pool, a large swing, gazebo, and direct beach access.
  • One‑Bedroom Overwater Suite with Pool: Ideal for those seeking tranquillity with a separate living area, overwater hammocks, and sea stairs leading straight into the lagoon.
  • Two‑Bedroom Pool Villas: Designed for larger families, offering generous living space, two king rooms, and a bright, airy ambience complemented by a private pool.

For more information, please visit the resort’s website or call +960 664 63 64.

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Culture

Sirru Fen Fushi celebrates Eid with focus on heritage and guest experiences

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Eid at Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort unfolded this year as a heartfelt celebration of connection, reflection, and Maldivian heritage, bringing guests together through two days of meaningful experiences designed to honour the spirit of the holiday.

From the first morning of Eid, families gathered over generous breakfast spreads and continued to reconnect throughout the day with celebratory dining offerings that wove together shared traditions and island flavours. As evening arrived, the resort invited guests to slow down under the open sky–stargazing by the shoreline, floating sound- healing sessions by the lagoon, and gentle sunrise and sunset yoga created quiet spaces for gratitude and presence.

The festivities continued across the island with immersive activities for all ages. Guests joined friendly football matches and a junior football camp, explored new skills in hands-on cooking classes, centred mind and body through Muay Thai practice, and took part in light-hearted competitions such as kayaking and archery. Beyond the resort, those eager to discover local life ventured on guided island visits, while evenings resonated with Maldivian folklore storytelling and the rhythm of the traditional Boduberu performance, bringing the cultural heartbeat of Eid to life.

Honouring Maldivian Heritage

A highlight of this year’s celebrations was the Eid cultural showcase at Raha Market on the 20th of March. The space was transformed into a traditional Fange, a handcrafted palm-thatched hut, where guests could explore skills and tools that once formed the backbone of daily life across the Maldives.

Artisans demonstrated Hanu lathe, how it is used in the sharpening of the Kathivalhi chopping blade, and the versatile Furoa axe, offering insight into craftsmanship passed down through generations. Guests observed the intricate Roanu Veshun technique of coir rope braiding and the delicate Fangi Vinun craft of weaving coconut fronds into kajan roofing, a once-essential, fully renewable building material.

The experience continued with traditional hand-milling of grains–wheat, finger millet, and rice, recalling a time before modern conveniences. The hut glowed with the warm flicker of Faanoozu oil lamps, a reminder of the simplicity of island life before the arrival of electricity.

No Maldivian celebration is complete without hedhika, and guests enjoyed freshly prepared favourites such as gulha, bajiya, masroshi, and keemiya, each carrying the flavours of home kitchens and long-held family recipes.

A Night to Remember

Children brought joyful energy to the festivities with a special Eid parade, filling the island with colour and excitement. As the evening closed, guests gathered along the shoreline to watch the Eid moon rise over the ocean–a quiet, luminous moment that captured the essence of the celebration: gratitude, unity and the timeless beauty of island life.

This year’s Eid at Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort was more than an event, it was a shared experience woven from culture, community, and the simple joy of being together. The resort looks forward to welcoming guests again next year to continue this cherished tradition.

For further information and reservations, please visit https://sirrufenfushi.com/ or contact reservations@sirrufenfushi.com.

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