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‘A Moment in Time’ festivities for Christmas, New Year at Oaga Art Resort
In a blend of artistic talent and tropical splendour, Oaga Art Resort, located in the heart of the Maldives, is gearing up to host a series of festive activities under the theme “A Moment in Time.” It promises a celebration that transcends the ordinary, offering guests an immersive experience that combines the beauty of the Maldives with the allure of art.
Warming up to Christmas Eve
As the sun sets over turquoise waters, the festivities kick off with the Liquid Groove DJ Pool Party on the 20th of December. The Christmas spirit continues to infuse the atmosphere with the Christmas Tree Toast on the 21st, marked by a Tree Lighting Ceremony to the serene sound of the harp played by Saif, and followed by live music at Raa Baa, the main bar, courtesy of the local talent named Naail Trio. The 22nd of December brings a flurry of activities, starting with the Merry Market opening at the main restaurant, Kaa Kada, followed by the Garden of Gingerbread, where guests can display their creativity in decorating gingerbread men. The night concludes with the Mix & Mingle Soiree at Sobi Bar, the beer and gin garden, featuring live music by our very own Vibe Director, Shiuz.
Artistic Vibes and Christmas Feasts
On Christmas Eve, from noon onwards, Raa Baa transforms into a local artist pop-up exhibition. From the 24th to the 29th, this Veyoge Caravan exhibition by Suvāsthi will feature “Of the Palm”, a selection of artwork that explore the sacred language between man and craft by local artist Hassan Niyaz. The evening continues with a festive feast later on in the night at Kaa Kada, followed by a Christmas Movie Night and live music by the talented local artist Shiuz.
Christmas Day itself promises a cheery brunch at Kaa Kada, complemented later on by the arrival of Santa Claus to Oaga. The festivities continue with live music by Dupa Trio during Christmas brunch, a Christmas show by Valerie Sealey (Solstix), and a beach party with DJ Afruh.
The last Full Moon of the Year
As the year draws to a close, the resort’s vibrant energy continues. On the 26th of December, guests can enjoy sun-kissed beats with DJ Afruh, live music by Naffah, and an O-Fire bonfire with live music by Zaki at Raa Baa Beach. The 27th brings the full moon ritual with Hoba Spa to celebrate the final full moon of the year, followed by a Handhuvaru Sound Healing Concert at Hoba Deck beach and culminating in a Moonlit full moon afterparty.
Warming up for New Year’s Eve
Jewellery-making sessions with the multi-talented Cinta Damerell will be held from the 27th to the 29th. On the 28th, guests can savour Maldivian cuisine at Kaa Kada, followed by live music by Dupa Trio at Raa Baa. On the 29th, the golden hour evening cocktail party is to be made extra special accompanied with flyboard performances, with the local talent Amruh serenading with the violin later on in the night.
New Year’s Eve – A Moment to Ash
New Year’s Eve at Oaga Art Resort promises to be an unforgettable night of cherished moments. The evening begins with a gala dinner at Kaa Kada, followed by a DJ party at Raa Baa Beach featuring DJ Afruh. As the clock strikes 11:45 PM, travellers will participate in the “Moment to Ash” ceremony, symbolising the burning away of the past year’s moments with fireworks lighting up the sky afterwards in celebration.
Welcoming the New Year 2024
The first day of 2024 begins with a rejuvenating New Year’s brunch, followed by a New Year ritual at Hoba Deck, live music by Dupa Trio and an outdoor movie night at Raa Baa. The festivities continue in the days that follow with a sculpting workshop by Cinta Damerell alongside a pool party, live music by local duo Something Lovely, a Boduberu pool party with Harubee, and a bonfire art exhibition with live music at Raa Baa.
On the 5th of January, guests can experience a Galactic Gallery – a bonfire art exhibition at night with live music at Raa Baa. Simultaneously, an immersive sound installation inside Samaasaa, based on the Maldivian musical giant Zero Degree Atoll’s “Dhoni” Album, awaits at the other end of the island.
The celebration comes to a grand finale on the 6th of January with live music by local talents Yani & Iqyan, followed by the Wave Rave – a beach party with DJ Afruh.
Featured artists at a glance:
- Hassan Niyaz: A graphic designer and self-taught artist from Male’, Maldives. His debut solo exhibition was recently showcased at Art Gallery Male’, and is now exploring new terrain with his second solo showcase ‘Of the Palm’ at Oaga Art Resort.
- Dupa Trio: A unique jazz band creating a dynamic and colourful musical environment reminiscent of the golden age of jazz music.
- Valery Sealey (Solstix): A highly skilled circus and fire performer, specialising in object manipulation and captivating audiences with staff manipulation, fire spinning, and contact juggling.
- Cinta Damerell: A multi-disciplinary creative whose aim is to create art and experience which encourages a utopian paradise, whether this be through film, exploring the wonders of the natural world or creating safe communities for arts to thrive.
- Alikko (Aleef): A curious creative exploring the vast world of art. With experience in music, design and performance arts, he loves to find the connections between these different forms and combine them. You will be seeing him play various instruments in his musical showcases aside from his fire poi and other object manipulation performances.
- DJ Afruh (Ali Afruh): A processional DJ / musician and multi-instrumentalist with influences rooted in blues, jazz, reggae, and world music.
- Ismail Affan: A talented musician and a performer famously known for his unique voice and vocal range.
- Something Lovely: An acoustic duo from the Maldives comprising childhood friends and musicians Shafyau Rameez (Thappu) and Dhifla Ahmed (Dhifoo).
- Harubee Boduberu Group: A group of young men passionate about traditional Maldivian music, Boduberu, who have won the hearts of Maldivians with their beats.
- Yani & Iqyan: two passionate musicians on a lifelong journey with music. As a dynamic duo, they bring a harmonious fusion of talent, creativity, and a shared dream to blossom into full-fledged musicians.
- Naail Trio: Naail Trio unites three prominent music talents from the Maldives, Naanu, Amir and Inan coming together to present an assorted blend of music deeply rooted in Jazz and Maldivian traditions.
- Shiuz: Oaga’s irreplaceable Director for all things vibe, a powerhouse performer with a charismatic career spotlighting the best of the Maldives’ musical arts.
- Naffah: An in-house musician, a soul-soothing busker, and a solo artist extraordinaire capable of serenading troubles away with his soothing voice.
- Zaki: A musician, singer, entertainer, host, surfer, and more, contributing to the Maldivian tourism industry with creativity and talent.
- Dumb & Dumber: An in-house collaboration of musicians Naffah and Humam, providing a perfect fusion of acoustic soulful music.
- Special features by local talents: Samooh Thaufeeq the saxophonist, Amru on violin, Husen Thaufeeq on keys & saxophone, Saif the harpist, Shaman the magician and more.
Oaga invites you to join in this momentous celebration with an unbeatable offer, where time stands still and memories are etched in the heart forever.
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 Creative Expression (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!
News
Maldives-born wellness brand ELE|NA celebrates 11 years of operations
ELE|NA, the spa and wellness brand by Atmosphere Wellness, celebrates its 11th anniversary this November under the theme 11 Years. One Essence. Born in the Maldives, the brand has grown through a philosophy rooted in nature, personalisation and connection, carrying its wellness philosophy to new destinations while staying true to the principles that shaped its beginnings.
Eleven years on, the essence is unchanged. What evolves is how that philosophy is experienced: through new wellness practices, scientific innovation, sustainability initiatives and the people who bring each guest journey to life.
Recognition has followed. ELE|NA was named Leading Wellness Brand of the Year at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2026, and ELE|NA Essentia was named Emerging Skincare Brand of the Year at the Destination Deluxe Awards 2025.
“For eleven years, ELE|NA has believed that wellness should feel personal and give back to the places that inspire it. That belief has not changed. What has grown is our team, our knowledge and our reach, now across South Asia. This anniversary belongs to the therapists and colleagues who bring that essence to every guest,” said Heidi Grimwood, Senior Vice President, ELE|NA.

A Maldives-Born Philosophy, Evolving with Time
The Maldives is at the heart of ELE|NA’s story. Across its sanctuaries, the brand explores how wellness can respond to the individual while drawing inspiration from nature and the surrounding environment.
This year, ELE|NA introduced the Pillars of Vitality, a framework that now anchors its therapies and shapes a more considered, holistic approach to wellbeing. Spanning TouchFlow, ReFine, BodyFit, SoulVibe, SleepSync and FoodDelight, the pillars give each guest journey a clear structure while leaving room for personal choice.
At selected sanctuaries, QEST4 bio-energetic assessment adds a technology-led dimension to personalised wellness, complementing traditional practices with a deeper understanding of individual needs.
The ELE|NA Wellness Academy, endorsed by CIBTAC, is advancing the brand’s commitment to learning. It has hosted Reiki and sound healing courses that develop practitioners and deepen their understanding of complementary wellness practices.
A Milestone in Sustainable Wellness
Nature has always been central to ELE|NA’s philosophy, extending beyond treatments to the brand’s responsibility towards the environments in which its sanctuaries operate.
That commitment reached an important milestone this year, when all eight ELE|NA sanctuaries in the Maldives were awarded Platinum, the highest tier of the Sustainable Wellness Group’s Sustainable Spa & Wellness Accreditation, following three consecutive years at Gold Standard. The recognition reflects a sustainability journey built year on year, and a focus on embedding responsible practices into everyday spa operations.

Celebrating the People Behind Eleven Years
Across ELE|NA’s Maldives sanctuaries, the anniversary is being celebrated through experiences that bring guests and teams together. Sunrise yoga, meditation and sound healing sit alongside tree planting, botanical workshops, sustainable craft activities and anniversary gatherings.
At the heart of the day is The 11:11 Moment. At 11:11 AM on 1 November, every sanctuary pauses together, as guests and teams stop to breathe, make a wish and share it, marking eleven years with one shared intention.
Each property brings its own character to the celebrations, with activities and shared rituals that reflect local surroundings and resort communities. Team performances and appreciation initiatives also recognise the therapists and colleagues whose care and expertise shape the guest experience every day.
While each sanctuary celebrates in its own way, the intention is shared: to honour the connections between wellness, nature and community.
From the Maldives to New Horizons
ELE|NA’s next chapter carries its wellness philosophy further into India. Building on its presence at Sadar Manzil Heritage by Atmosphere in Bhopal, the brand opens ELE|NA Ayur at Ananta Spa & Resort, Ajabgarh, on 1 November, with OZEN Villas Jaipur and Arunya in Coorg to follow. Each destination offers an opportunity to interpret the brand’s approach through its own landscape and setting.
The brand is also introducing ELE|NA Essentia, its own skincare line, to India. Made in India and inspired by Indian botanicals, Essentia extends ELE|NA’s nature-led philosophy beyond the spa and into everyday skincare rituals.
Beyond India, ELE|NA’s pipeline extends to Sri Lanka and Nepal, where new destinations will bring the brand’s nature-led approach to fresh landscapes and cultures.
Eleven years on, the destinations have grown and the practices have evolved. The essence remains one.
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CROSSROADS Maldives welcomes international padel stars for historic women’s tournament
The Maldives is set for an electrifying sporting spectacle as CROSSROADS Maldives welcomes the country’s first FIP Silver Women’s Padel tournament, taking place from 5–8 November 2026 at SAii Lagoon Maldives. Organised in collaboration Asia Padel Events, the event brings international sporting excellence to paradise, with professional competition, exclusive masterclasses, and exciting opportunities for the public to experience the game firsthand.
The tournament will feature 26 international professional players, including eight athletes ranked among the world’s Top 100. Headlining the competition are Spanish padel stars Nuria Rodriguez (World No. 24) and Marta Talavan (World No. 36), alongside an impressive line-up featuring Finland’s No. 1 player Martina Minetti, UK’s No. 3 Rosie Pooley, an Italian national champion, European champions, Malaysia’s No. 1 player, and national team representatives from multiple countries.
Beyond the championship, CROSSROADS Maldives is opening the courts to everyone. From 5–8 November, padel enthusiasts can train alongside Nuria Rodriguez and Marta Talavan through exclusive masterclasses, available at USD 450 per day or USD 1,200 for the four-day experience. The programme includes:
- Four hours of intensive training and matches daily, divided into two sessions.
- An exclusive dinner with the professionals on 5 November.
- Access to watch all FIP Silver Women’s Padel tournament matches.
For those seeking a personalised experience, exclusive training sessions with Finland’s No. 1 Martina Minetti and UK’s No. 3 Rosie Pooley will also be available from 2–4 November, offering one-on-one private coaching at USD 200 per hour, or an exciting one-hour matchplay session with two professionals at USD 400.
The tournament is open for everyone to watch, welcoming resort guests, Maldivian residents, expatriates, and visitors to witness world-class padel against the spectacular backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Masterclasses and private coaching sessions are likewise open to the public, with limited slots available.
As a multi-island lifestyle destination, CROSSROADS Maldives, home to SO/ Maldives, SAii Lagoon Maldives, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives, and The Marina at CROSSROADS, continues to elevate the island experience through international sporting events, entertainment, and lifestyle programming that connect travellers with the local community.
This November, the CROSSROADS Maldives isn’t just one destination. It’s centre court.
Event Details
2–4 November | Private Training & Matchplay:
- One-on-one training with international professionals: USD 200 per hour
- One-hour matchplay with two professionals: USD 400
5–8 November | Padel Masterclasses:
- Daily Pass: USD 450 per person
- Four-Day Pass: USD 1,200 per person
- Includes four hours of daily training and matches across two sessions, dinner with the professionals on 5 November, and access to watch tournament matches.
5–8 November | FIP Silver Women’s Padel Tournament (Open to spectators):
- 5 November: Round of 16
- 6 November: Quarterfinals
- 7 November: Semifinals
- 8 November: Championship Final
Venue: SAii Lagoon Maldives, CROSSROADS Maldives
Bookings & Enquiries: KoimalaandMaalimi@crossroadsmaldives.com
Masterclass packages exclude food and beverages beyond the stated dinner inclusion, accommodation, and transfers. Public access and participation are subject to event arrangements and availability.
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W Maldives welcomes Olympic badminton champion Wang Chi-Lin for exclusive coaching experience
This December, W Maldives is set to elevate the island getaway experience as two-time Olympic badminton gold medalist Wang Chi-Lin takes up residence at the luxury private island resort from December 1 to 3, 2026. During his stay, the badminton icon will host a complimentary one-hour badminton coaching session for resort guests, adding an exciting sporting dimension to a tropical escape in one of the world’s most sought-after destinations for families, groups of friends, and solo travellers.
A Taiwanese badminton player specialising in men’s and mixed doubles, Wang Chi-Lin is widely regarded as one of the sport’s biggest stars. He has earned global recognition through a remarkable career winning back-to-back Olympic gold medals in men’s doubles at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games and the Paris 2024 Olympics. Known for his dynamic playing style and relentless determination, Wang continues to inspire a new generation of athletes and badminton enthusiasts around the world.

Located in the heart of North Ari Atoll and reached via a scenic 25-minute seaplane journey from Malé, W Maldives is a private island playground where luxury, adventure, and vibrant island living come naturally. Guests can discover the resort’s award-winning house reef teeming with marine life, savour bold dining concepts, and recharge with wellness experiences designed to inspire every sense. Every stay embodies W Maldives’ signature spirit of energy, freedom, and unexpected discovery.
From snorkelling vibrant coral reefs and encountering nurse sharks to sunset cruises and relaxing by the water, guests can experience the many sides of island living at W Maldives. For those seeking even greater seclusion, Gaathafushi, the resort’s private castaway island, provides the perfect setting for bespoke experiences and private dining amid untouched natural beauty.
As part of this collaboration, W Maldives is also unveiling a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity through Marriott Bonvoy Moments, where members can bid on an Exclusive Badminton Coaching Experience with Olympic Champion Wang Chi-Lin paired with a four-night stay in a Premier Overwater One-Bedroom Villa from December 2 to 6, 2026.
“We are always looking for unexpected ways to bring together passion, play, and meaningful experiences for our guests,” said Amila Handunwala, General Manager of W Maldives. “Welcoming Wang Chi-Lin to W Maldives adds an exciting new dimension to the guest experience. Whether you’re passionate about badminton or simply looking for something unexpected during your island escape, this is the kind of once-in-a-lifetime moment that perfectly captures the energy, adventure, and sense of discovery we love creating at W Maldives.”

Package for the bid winner and one guest includes:
- Four-night stay in a Premier Overwater One-Bedroom Villa
- Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner with non-alcoholic beverages at select dining venues
- A private one-hour badminton coaching session with Olympic Champion Wang Chi-Lin on the paddle court
- An intimate sunset experience with drinks and canapés on Gaathafushi, W Maldives’ private castaway island
- One 60-minute signature treatment per person at AWAY® Spa
- Guided snorkelling at the resort’s award-winning house reef
- Shared roundtrip seaplane transfers from Velana International Airport
Members can now bid on this once-in-a-lifetime experience from now through November 14, 2026 through Marriott Bonvoy Moments. For more information, visit www.wmaldives.com or contact reservations.wmaldives@whotels.com.
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