News
Virgin Atlantic inaugurates direct flights from London Heathrow to the Maldives
Today, Virgin Atlantic launched its latest direct flight route, linking London Heathrow to the Maldives. The inaugural flight, operated by Virgin Atlantic, touched down at VIA early this morning at 07:40 am local time, signifying the commencement of an exciting new era in air travel between the United Kingdom and the Maldives. Passengers aboard the Virgin Atlantic aircraft were greeted with a warm traditional Maldivian Bodeberu welcome ceremony, featuring captivating cultural dance performances.
This new service is set to operate three times a week, with Virgin Atlantic’s state-of-the-art Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which boasts a total of 31 Upper Class, 35 Premium, and 192 Economy Delight, Classic, and Light seats. Travelers will have a range of options to suit their preferences and budgets.
For those seeking the utmost in luxury, Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class offers fully flat beds and an onboard bar, providing a fine dining experience and an opportunity to network with fellow travelers. Premium customers can relax in their luxurious leather armchairs, complete with a 38” seat pitch, and enjoy the perks of priority boarding and welcome drinks. Regardless of the cabin class chosen, all passengers will enjoy complimentary food and beverages, over 300 hours of entertainment, and a warm welcome from Virgin Atlantic’s renowned cabin crew.
Mr. Mahjoob Shujau, CEO & Managing Director of MACL, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “As the operator of Velana International Airport, we are excited to welcome the prestigious and customer-centric airline, Virgin Atlantic. This inaugural flight marks a significant milestone in the enhancement of air travel connections between the United Kingdom and the Maldives. We look forward to a prosperous partnership with Virgin Atlantic as we continue to elevate the travel experience for our passengers.”
Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Atlantic, shared his excitement, saying, “We couldn’t be more thrilled to launch our flights between the United Kingdom and the Maldives with our new thrice-weekly service, as we continue to expand our growing collection of winter sun destinations. We are proud to be able to offer more opportunities for our customers to experience the Maldives and are looking forward to welcoming them to this breathtaking and one-of-a-kind destination. The collaboration between MACL and Virgin Atlantic reflects the shared commitment to delivering exceptional travel experiences and fostering stronger air connectivity between the United Kingdom and the Maldives.”
Caron Rohsler, British High Commissioner to the Maldives, also expressed her delight, stating, “I am delighted that Virgin Atlantic has today started operating direct flights from London Heathrow to Maldives. Maldives is a top holiday destination for British tourists. Brits have consistently featured among top 3 nationalities visiting Maldives for many years. The UK Government has worked with the Government of Maldives for many years now on airport safety and aviation security. I look forward to continuing our partnerships in Maldives, especially as the airport expansion progresses. Tourism is an important pillar of the Maldivian economy, and I hope this milestone today will contribute to continued growth in convenient and comfortable travel between our countries. Visitors are encouraged to read the FCDO’s travel advice and to buy travel insurance to enjoy the best possible holiday experience.”
The Virgin Atlantic Inaugural event was attended by the British High Commissioner to the Maldives and senior members of MACL, along with senior members of the local agent, Voyages Maldives. This new route promises to strengthen the connection between the United Kingdom and the Maldives, offering travelers a remarkable journey to one of the world’s most picturesque destinations.
News
‘The Curse of the Vigani’ takes over Oaga Art Resort this Halloween
On October 31, Oaga ArtResort invites guests on a Dhathuru to the island of Maaranfushi, where a day of beachside BBQ, traditional Maldivian picnic fare, live music and games slowly gives way to something much darker.
As sundown approaches, Dhon Hassanube makes his first appearance at Oaga, introducing guests to the story of the Vigani, a mysterious demon once bound to Maaranfushi to protect the islands of the Maldives from its curse. But with the Vigani said to have returned, Hassanube has some explaining to do.

The story will unfold across the island, with new characters and mysterious entities revealed along the way. Guests are guided through an island tour, meeting those caught within the curse and uncovering fragments of its story as they go. What begins as a Dhathuru soon becomes a Cursed trick or treating Island Tour, leading to unexpected encounters, storytelling and a Halloween special dinner at Kaa Kada.

The soundtrack to the story comes courtesy of Project Groove, bringing live music to the Dhathuru, while Amney and Faudi take the stage at Kaa Kada for an evening of live storytelling and music. The final chapter unfolds at Raa Baa, where Suvāsthi’s Unethical Projection brings the tale of the Vigani to life before Cursed Groove takes over for a night of Halloween revelry.

For families and younger guests, Fiyoh Kids Club has its own little Dhathuru of Halloween fun, with trick or treat basket decorating, costume making, games and playful activities for young explorersto create their own chapter of the story.
From the first clues at Maaranfushi to the final chapter at Raa Baa, this Halloween invites guests to become part of a story that unfolds around them. Come curious, follow the clues and keep an eye out for who, or what, you might meet along the way.
The Curse of the Vigani awaits at Oaga Art Resort this Halloween.
News
Fushifaru Maldives unveils five-day celebration for ninth anniversary
Nine divine years of this exquisite island paradise in Lhaviyani Atoll… Fushifaru Maldives gears up to celebrate its ninth anniversary this October with a special programme of experiences taking place from 20 to 24 October 2026, culminating in the resort’s official anniversary celebration on 24 October.
Over the past nine years, Fushifaru has established itself as an award-winning boutique resort in The Maldives known for its intimate barefoot island atmosphere, personalised service, rich Maldivian character and memorable guest experiences.
To mark the occasion, the resort has created a programme designed to bring guests, team members and the island community together in true #FeelingFantastic spirit. Celebrations will begin with Bodukakka–Guest Chef Challenge, inviting guests to team up with Fushifaru’s culinary team for a friendly cooking competition inspired by local flavours. Guests can also take part in a SUP Race around the island, with the winner receiving a romantic sandbank dinner for two.
Guests will also witness Fushifaru’s connection to the natural environment through Coral Planting and Guided Snorkelling, offering guests the opportunity to contribute to marine conservation while exploring the island’s underwater world.
The celebrations will culminate on 24 October with Fushifaru’s official 9th Anniversary Celebration, bringing together guests and the Fushifaru team for an evening dedicated to nine years of memories, friendships and exceptional experiences. The milestone reflects Fushifaru’s continued focus on creating meaningful and authentic Maldivian experiences while building lasting relationships with guests from around the world.
For Fushifaru sales enquiries and bookings, please contact reservations@fushifaru.com or visit www.fushifaru.com.
News
Meyyafushi celebrates first anniversary with three days of island experiences
Meyyafushi will celebrate its first anniversary from 1 to 3 November 2026 with a three-day programme of wellness, gastronomy, entertainment, culture and meaningful island experiences.
The anniversary marks an important milestone for the five-star Premium All-Inclusive resort, which has spent its first year welcoming guests to experience its distinctive combination of contemporary luxury, immersive dining, recreation and connection. To celebrate, Meyyafushi has curated a programme showcasing some of the resort’s most memorable experiences.
The festivities will begin with a serene Sunrise Floating Sound Bath at the Sky Lounge, offering guests a peaceful start to the celebrations, a Golden Cocktail Hour and Gala Dinner await in the evening, followed by a vibrant Glow in the Dark Grand Party.
The second day will focus on both sustainability and gastronomy. Guests will be invited to join a Coral Planting Journey, supporting the resort’s marine conservation efforts and pillar of kindness #KindnesstotheEnvironment, followed by an exclusive four-course Dinner with Chef Wout Bru, a renowned Belgian Michelin-starred chef.
On the final day, guests can enjoy a refined Wine & Charcuterie Tasting Experience at overwater Wine Cellar Raa, before the celebrations conclude with a Cultural Show and Bonfire, bringing together music, tradition and the relaxed spirit of island life.
Meyyafushi’s first anniversary represents not only a celebration of its opening year, but also the beginning of a longer journey focused on creating meaningful connections between guests, people and the natural beauty of the Maldives.
For Meyyafushi sales enquiries and bookings, please contact reservations@meyyafushi.com or visit www.meyyafushi.com.
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