News
Sun Siyam Resorts presents five-star line-up of Christmas classics with tropical twist
Sun Siyam Resorts has unwrapped this year’s festive season programme, creating an ideal haven for those seeking to revel in the warmth and joy of the holidays. Across their five exquisite private island properties in the Maldives, guests are invited to exchange snowflakes for sandy shores this December and embrace a carefree Christmas castaway experience like never before.
Around the world at Sun Siyam Olhuveli
Sun Siyam Olhuveli will be making merry with an eclectic extravaganza of decadent musical delights and cultural activities from around the globe. Guests will be in for a treat when singer and songwriter Emma Ochia, talented musician, producer, Synthetic sax player Mikhail Morozov, and the mesmerising duo of belly dance sensations, Julia Anastasia Armellini and Kovijanic Nedeljkovic Tara perform during Christmas and New Year’s Eve parties promising unforgettable celebrations for everyone. Party goers can drop by the Wonderland Stage to experience a mesmerising performance by the world’s leading LED artists Dennis Kiss & Szulita Szekrényes for a performance like nothing you have ever seen before!
From ballads to floor-fillers, colour runs to Bollywood beach parties, and a Tour de Olhuveli cycling race to mini-Olympic Games, the world tour ends with a fireworks-filled crescendo on 31 December at the Around the World Gala Dinner, where a host of acclaimed DJs – including British House legend DJ Karno, a Pacha and Ministry of Sound regular and local Maldivian music band 2 Sense, who will encourage guests to dance the year away as they ring in the new year.
Royal blend of Christmas lights at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi
With dazzling fire and circus performances from the international talents of La Circocracia and fire queen PYRO to enjoy at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, guests will be invited to replace their traditional fireside Christmas for remarkable fire and lights shows guaranteed to make any stay merry and bright. Local DJ Watte will make sure every guest is in tune with what’s coming in 2024.
For the ultimate yuletide gift, there’s also a host of unforgettable experiences and flavoursome flavours – including rum pot-infused treats – on the menu at the luxury resort.
From private castaway breaks with your own secluded beach to romantic champagne cruises, and flyboarding to bespoke spa rituals – including a Majestic Prince and Princess option for guests aged 3-12 – the five-star boutique resort is sure to leave a trail of wonder in its wake.
Paradise on Bloom at Sun Siyam Iru Veli
Hoping to make every member of the family’s festive dreams come true this year, Sun Siyam Iru Veli has a host of activities certain to make the all-inclusive paradise the place where winter sun meets festive island fun. Felicity, popular Jazz- Saxophonist, and DJ Jeremiah graces Iru Veli with their exceptional talent at the Christmas and New Year’s Eve cocktail parties and celebrations. Guests will be captivated by Chandana and the Dancers Guild, a fusion dance group from Sri Lanka, and can enjoy a festive programme merging culture and tropical festivities with extraordinary performances set against the backdrop of magnificent sunsets.
From a playful programme of creative crafts and fun-packed beach activities to classic Christmas movies and carol karaoke, the Turtle Kids Club will keep younger guests entertained while adults find other ways to celebrate in seasonal style. From stargazing cruises to whale shark snorkelling trips, and sushi-making classes to traditional Maldivian BoduBeru dancing shows, guests are spoilt for choice with ways to take full advantage of the blue skies, clear waters and pristine beaches.
Time Traveller’s Ball at Siyam World
From aerial displays to sand art, fire shows to pool parties, and floating feasts to Great Gatsby themed gambling nights, Siyam World continues to strengthen its reputation as a carefree playground with this year’s enviable holiday line-up.
Promising the best seat in the house this New Year, the resort will be ringing in 2024 as it hosts the Time Traveller’s Ball on Arigato Beach. The instrumental countdown begins with ONEVIOLIN – the boundary-breaking Finnish violinist who performs well-known songs across musical genres, and uses his one violin to create everything from drums to melody – before DJ Jetro takes centre stage. Known for incorporating saxophone solos into his Ibiza-style sets, together they’ll get the party started with sets destined to see guests substitute dashing through the snow for dancing barefoot on the sand.
Midsummer Nights at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef
Holidaymakers in search of the ultimate beach bliss can swap tinsel for twinkling stars, mince pies for massages and stockings for snorkelling at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef this Christmas, with those booking the 23 and 28 December Vilu Festival receiving 25% on all activities.
As part of the festive entertainment, guests will be dazzled by the Double Power Show, an international LED and Laser Show duo from Russia acrobatics, who mesmerise their audience with their geometry display and harmonious fusion of power, elegance, and grace in their LED and laser show.
Being the season to be jolly, guests are also invited to join the Mixology Academy under the 27 December Full Moon for cocktails, mocktails and more, before embracing the new year bartending show where Snowballs will be replaced by a refreshing Sea Breeze.
Food
JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La launches new culinary direction at Azur
A newly reimagined menu at JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La’s Azur unfolds as a thoughtful expression of place, an exploration of flavour guided by nature, grounded in community, and elevated through a global perspective. More than a collection of dishes, it tells a story, one of origin, craftsmanship, and a philosophy that values authenticity as much as innovation.
The unveiling of the refreshed menu was marked by an intimate gathering of partners, brought together for an evening of tasting and discovery. Rather than a formal presentation, the experience was designed as a sensory journey, where each course revealed the intention, depth, and evolution behind the culinary direction.
Guests were guided through a curated tasting experience that reflected the menu’s defining principles: clarity of flavor, respect for ingredients, and a seamless balance between intention and quality. Each dish spoke not only of technique, but also of provenance, where it came from, who cultivated it, and why it mattered.
At the heart of the menu are Azur’s rooted in nature (RIN) dishes, created with sustainability as a guiding principle. By prioritizing locally sourced ingredients, these dishes reduce environmental impact while strengthening the connection between the kitchen and the community.
While deeply rooted in the Maldives, the menu draws inspiration from global culinary traditions, weaving familiar flavors into something distinctly its own. The result is cuisine that feels both comforting and refreshing, inviting guests to explore while remaining beautifully familiar.
This philosophy reflects the guiding principles of Shangri-La, where hospitality is defined by genuine care and attentiveness, and excellence is measured not only in precision, but in how responsibly and meaningfully it is delivered.
At the same time, it carries the vibrant, contemporary spirit of JEN, effortlessly connected to its surroundings, shaped by the people and place it belongs to, and rooted in modern travel experiences that feel both relaxed and meaningful.
Dining at Azur is shaped as much by its setting as by its cuisine. Open skies, the gentle rhythm of the water, and the ever present blue create a rooftop atmosphere that defines the experience at JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La. From this elevated space in the heart of the capital, dining feels open, relaxed, and naturally connected to its surroundings.
“Our menu is rooted in a sustainable philosophy, built around comforting, honest ingredients that connect with people on a deeper level. We focus on simplicity and flavour, letting each element shine without over complication. For me, creating a menu is about more than flavour and presentation. It’s about telling a story that respects both the environment and the community,” Chef Hardik Trehan said.
More than 50% of our produce is sourced locally from the Maldives, which allows us to work with fresher ingredients while supporting local farmers and fishermen. This not only enhances the quality of our dishes but also strengthens our connection to the community. For me, it’s about creating food that feels good, both in taste and in purpose bringing together comfort, sustainability, and a true sense of place.”
“The dessert selection at Azur beautifully blends locally sourced ingredients with refined international flavours, creating a unique and memorable experience. From Kashikeyo with screw pine, to the refreshing Tropical Wellness with coconut and fruits, and Dhonkeyo made from handpicked local bananas, each dessert reflects island authenticity,” added Pastry Chef Hameed.
“Thoughtfully crafted to suit every palate, the menu ranges from the richly indulgent Saffron Tres Leches to the decadent Molten Chocolate Lava. Whether light or indulgent, every guest is sure to find a favourite in this elegant collection.”
Here, above the rhythm of Malé, Azur finds its expression not as reinvention, but as refinement.
A space where nature, city, and cuisine come together effortlessly at the rooftop of JEN Maldives Malé. A place where dining feels unhurried, present, and deeply connected to its surroundings.
Celebration
Sirru Fen Fushi to host Eid al-Adha celebration from 27–29 May
Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort has announced its “Eid in Harmony” programme for Eid al-Adha, scheduled from 27 to 29 May 2026, offering guests a series of curated experiences centred on dining, cultural elements and leisure activities.
The programme is designed to provide a structured yet relaxed approach to the celebration, with a focus on shared experiences and engagement with the island environment. According to the resort, the initiative aims to bring together cultural traditions and hospitality offerings within a resort setting.
A central feature of the programme will be the Eid al-Adha Feast, a dining experience presenting a selection of dishes prepared for the occasion. The event will be set in a themed environment reflecting elements associated with Eid.
The resort will also introduce an “Eid Gift with Purpose” initiative, positioned as a gesture aligned with the values of giving and reflection associated with the occasion.
In addition, guests will have the option to participate in a Guest Archery Competition, offering a recreational activity designed to complement the island setting and provide an alternative form of engagement during the celebration period.
Alongside the programme, the resort has launched an “Eid Island Escape” offer, which includes a range of inclusions for guests staying during the period. These include a 30-minute jet lag recovery massage, daily breakfast at Raha Market, dinner on a dine-around basis across selected restaurants, and a one-time floating breakfast experience.
In a statement, the resort’s management said the programme is intended to reflect the values of togetherness and reflection associated with Eid al-Adha, while offering guests opportunities to spend time with family and participate in shared experiences.
Through the three-day programme, Sirru Fen Fushi – Private Lagoon Resort is presenting Eid al-Adha as a combination of dining, leisure and cultural activities within a resort environment.
Featured
Reethi Faru Resort awarded Green Globe certification
Reethi Faru Resort has received Green Globe certification, recognising its compliance with international standards for sustainable tourism.
The certification reflects the resort’s stated commitment to responsible hospitality, with a focus on environmental management, social responsibility and operational practices across the property.
Green Globe certification is awarded following an assessment based on established sustainability criteria and verified through independent third-party audits. The standard reviews performance in areas including environmental management, energy efficiency, resource conservation, community engagement and sustainable operations.
With the certification, Reethi Faru Resort joins a group of hospitality operators worldwide that have met Green Globe’s sustainability requirements and demonstrated an ongoing commitment to improvement in tourism practices.
In a statement, the management of Reethi Faru Resort said the recognition reflects the resort’s continued focus on preserving the natural environment of the Maldives while maintaining the guest experience. The management added that sustainability forms part of the resort’s daily operations.
The Green Globe standard includes more than 40 core criteria supported by over 380 compliance indicators, providing a framework for assessing sustainability performance in the hospitality sector.
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