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Get creative this winter with launch of Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island’s MURACA Art Studio
Get creative at Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island this winter, with the launch of the impressive new creative space, the MURACA Art Studio. Offering a diverse range of activities, both couples and families alike can unleash their artistic flair with a range of exciting art-related activities while enjoying an idyllic island escape.
Inspired by the mesmerising coral reefs and surrounding crystalline turquoise waters of the North Malé Atoll, Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island’s MURACA Art Studio invites guests to explore their creative side in a playful and unique space. From immersive watercolour workshops to engaging seashell jewellery making sessions, the resort’s resident artist is on hand to assist and inspire. Dive into the art of T-shirt painting, explore the intricacies of paper crafting, or craft a personalised tote bag – each activity is a brushstroke in the canvas of unforgettable memories. Leave with not only a handmade piece of the Maldives but memories to last a lifetime.
This December, guests can also look forward to a calendar of events which embrace the magic of the festive season. From crafting tree ornaments made from special local seashells, to diving into the art of clay pottery or painting on the beach under the stunning Maldivian sunsets – there is something for everyone this Christmas. On 01 January 2024, indulge in a delightful afternoon of culinary delights complemented by the grand debut of the majestic Festive Mural, an exquisite celebration of opulent artistry and boundless creative splendour. A street market will also be taking place on 05 January 2024, which champions local artisans and showcases one-of-a-kind artwork, handcrafted treasures, and unique crafts from local talents at the heart of the island.
Once guests have experimented with their creativity, they can delight in the resort’s luxurious wellness facilities. Whether relaxing with a nature-inspired signature massage in the captivating overwater treatment rooms of the Talise Spa or revitalising with sunrise yoga and meditative Tibetan Bowl sound healing experience, the resort will leave them feel rejuvenated and refreshed.
Surrounded by a breathtaking natural landscape, Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island is a luxurious haven for travellers seeking a tranquil escape. The resort offers 67 beach and over-water villas, each designed in a contemporary style, including the exclusive two- and three-bedroom villas which are perfect for families this festive season. With five distinct restaurants and bars serving the season’s finest flavours and showcasing unparalleled views, exceptional dining experiences await.
Guests are invited to explore the festivities waiting for them here, and elevate their experience by reserving with exclusive perks from the festive offer here.
JEN Maldives Malé has introduced the Shangri-La Circle (SLC) loyalty programme, offering dining benefits for guests from 1 April to 31 December 2026.
The programme provides free and instant membership, allowing guests to access discounts and earn reward points on dining experiences at the property. Members receive a 15 per cent discount on their first dining purchase upon joining, along with ongoing 15 per cent savings on food and beverage.
Guests can enrol in the programme through the Shangri-La Circle mobile application. Membership benefits include reward points on eligible spending, which can be redeemed for future dining and hotel experiences.
The offer applies to regular dining experiences and excludes tobacco, special theme buffet nights, and other ongoing promotions.
JEN Maldives Malé stated that the programme is designed to provide value to guests while enhancing dining experiences at the hotel. The initiative also reflects Shangri-La’s focus on strengthening guest engagement through loyalty-based offerings.
Members are required to present their digital membership card at the time of billing to access the benefits.
The hotel is promoting the programme through its social media channels, in-house displays, and digital platforms. Guests can download the Shangri-La Circle application or sign up at the hotel to begin using the programme.
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has been nominated in the Resorts category for the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 (UK) and the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 (US), marking a further development in the resort’s international recognition.
The Readers’ Choice Awards are based on traveller feedback and are considered a key benchmark within the global travel industry. The dual nomination reflects the resort’s presence across international markets and its engagement with guests from different regions.
The nomination follows a series of recognitions for the resort. In 2025, Kuda Villingili was ranked among the Top 5 Overseas Leisure Resorts Worldwide in the Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards, placing fifth globally. It was also listed among the Top Resorts in the Indian Ocean in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2025 (US). The resort was similarly recognised in the 2024 edition of the awards.
Located in North Malé Atoll, approximately 30 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives offers 75 villas and residences, each with private pools and views of the surrounding ocean.
The resort features eight restaurants and three bars, including Japanese-Peruvian dining at Mar-Umi and Teppanyaki by Mar-Umi. Other dining options include Asian cuisine at East and grill offerings at Fire. Additional facilities include a cigar lounge, a large swimming pool, a spa with overwater treatment villas, and a range of wellness and recreational activities such as yoga, sound therapy and surfing.
Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director at Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, stated that the nominations reflect feedback from guests across international markets and noted the importance of maintaining consistent service standards.
Voting for the Readers’ Choice Awards 2026 is open until 30 June 2026, with results scheduled to be announced in November 2026.
Baros Maldives is set to host a curated Earth Day experience titled Earth Day in Bloom on 22 April 2026, offering guests an evening programme centred on sustainability, nature and locally sourced ingredients.
The event will begin at 6:30pm at the resort’s Chef’s Garden, where guests will be welcomed with a Garden Spritz before taking part in a guided tour of the garden. The tour will introduce participants to local herbs and island-grown produce cultivated on the property.
As part of the programme, guests will be invited to plant their own herb, contributing to the garden while engaging in an activity aligned with environmental awareness. The experience will continue with a garden dinner starting at 7pm, featuring a menu designed around fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the island.
An optional pairing of organic wines will also be available, providing an additional element to the dining experience.
The event is priced at USD 175 per person, excluding applicable service charge and taxes. Reservations can be made through the resort’s butler service.
The initiative reflects Baros Maldives’ focus on sustainability-led guest experiences, integrating environmental awareness with culinary offerings and on-island activities.
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