News
‘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!
Love
Love by the lagoon: Sheraton Maldives presents Valentine’s romantic journeys
Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invites couples to celebrate love in its most enchanting form with a collection of thoughtfully curated Valentine’s Romantic Packages. Designed to transform meaningful moments into lifelong memories, these bespoke experiences artfully blend refined dining, serene wellness, marine discovery, and intimate island settings into journeys crafted exclusively for two.
For couples drawn to a timeless expression of romance, Crystal & Candlelight sets an elegant tone with a four-course candlelit dinner at Sea Salt, complemented by a printed keepsake photo and romantic turndown amenities. As gentle waves whisper along the shore and candlelight dances beneath the stars, the evening unfolds into a classic celebration of intimacy and grace.
Those wishing to intertwine wellness, nature, and romance may choose The Enchanted Escape. This beautifully paced experience begins with a rejuvenating couple’s massage at Shine Spa, followed by guided coral planting alongside the resort’s marine biologist. The day then flows into a sunset dolphin cruise, before culminating in a romantic beachfront dinner under the night sky.
For a day devoted entirely to togetherness, Cupid’s Delight offers an immersive journey from morning to evening. Couples awake to a romantic in-villa breakfast with sparkling wine, indulge in a soothing spa ritual, take part in coral restoration, witness dolphins at sunset, and conclude the day with a candlelit beach dinner enhanced by thoughtful romantic touches.
Elevating the celebration further, The Grand Romance introduces a series of refined indulgences. These include a floating breakfast, a hand-tied flower bouquet, a signature couple’s massage, coral planting, a dolphin cruise, and an exclusive five-course private beach dinner paired with sparkling wine. Elegant turndown décor and keepsake memories ensure every detail is orchestrated with care.
For the ultimate expression of love without limits, Endless Love presents the resort’s most luxurious romantic journey. From a Champagne floating breakfast and picturesque lagoon lunch to spa serenity, marine discovery, a dolphin cruise, and a five-course private beach dinner paired with Champagne, this experience is designed for couples seeking to celebrate their connection in the most extraordinary way.
Each package is thoughtfully crafted to combine privacy, luxury, and authentic island experiences, while reflecting the resort’s commitment to marine conservation through guided coral planting, allowing love to leave a lasting imprint.
For couples planning a Valentine’s romantic escape and beyond, the Endless Summer offer is available for booking through February 28, 2026. The offer includes up to USD 150 in resort credit, daily meals at selected restaurants, and special dining credits at signature venues Baan Thai and Sea Salt. Additional privileges include wellness savings at Shine Spa and a selection of recreational experiences, allowing each stay to be personalised with ease, comfort, and meaningful moments together.
At Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa, romance extends far beyond a single day. It is woven into every experience, every setting, and every memory waiting to be created.
For reservations and more information, email Sheraton.Maldives@sheraton.com or visit www.sheratonmaldives.com.
Love
JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa invites couples to a season of romance and refined indulgence
From February 9 – 27, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa presents celebration of love, culture and togetherness a week-long seasonal programme combining Valentine’s Day and Chinese New Year through immersive culinary, wellness, and cultural experiences. Set on the pristine shores of Vagaru Island in Shaviyani Atoll, the celebration is thoughtfully designed for couples and families to connect, celebrate, and create meaningful moments through refined luxury, cultural expression, and personalised service.
A stay at JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa is defined by intuitive island living, with a dedicated Thakuru (personal butler) attending to every detail. From private in-villa pool breakfasts to intimate beachfront dining at sunset, each moment unfolds as an effortlessly memorable escape. Here, personalised service and indulgent experiences set the stage for cherished moments, allowing guests to create memories that will last a lifetime. Guests are also invited to explore the natural beauty of the island by bicycle, encouraging unhurried discovery and meaningful moments across the island’s lush pathways.
Romantic moments
At the heart of the celebrations is A Day of Love, a bespoke Valentine’s experience created for couples seeking intimacy and indulgence. The journey begins with a floating breakfast served in the privacy of one’s villa, followed by a rejuvenating couples’ spa ritual at Spa by JW, offering pampering experiences like “The Power of Touch”—a unique, sensual journey designed to deepen connection through therapeutic touch. a unique, sensual journey designed to deepen connection through therapeutic touch. Couples can craft their own body scrubs, enjoy the process together, and conclude with a relaxing massage
For an extraordinary culinary journey, RIHA offers an unforgettable and romantic concept, promising a unique and private experience around a sunken outdoor Tandoor & Tawa. Here, personal Chef Rohit Agarwal crafts a private five-course menu upon the couple’s arrival. Each course brings together flavours and regional influences in a way that feels natural, layered, and quietly distinctive.
Culinary moments continue across the resort’s five dining venues, three full-service bars, and an intimate Wine Room housing more than 1,200 labels, complemented by bespoke destination dining experiences. Romance comes to life at Hashi Pier, where a candlelit setting overlooking the ocean frames an exclusive surf-and-turf menu, indulgent caviar, and perfectly paired Champagne. For a more intimate celebration, couples may retreat to the privacy of their villa for an elegant four-course dinner, crafted to celebrate romance through flavours and an intimate setting.
For couples seeking ultimate relaxation and privacy, Pool 18, the resort’s adults-only infinity pool, offers a tranquil sanctuary above the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, provides an exclusive setting for sun-soaked afternoons or evening cocktails beneath the sky’s ever-changing hues.
Flavours of the Lunar New Year
Complementing the romance of Valentine’s Day, the resort transitions seamlessly into the vibrant spirit of Chinese New Year, as the island is animated with colour, rhythm, and time-honoured tradition. The celebrations commence with an auspicious lion dance, setting a tone of prosperity and renewal, and before unfolding into a thoughtfully curated Asian-inspired culinary week.
Throughout the Lunar New Year period, dining becomes a central expression of the season. Experiences range from Asian-inspired dinner buffets and festive breakfasts honouring cultural customs, to refined ocean selection celebrating the freshest seafood, and an elevated Asian fusion wine dinner that pairs nuanced flavours with carefully selected vintages. Each culinary moment is designed with intention, blending authentic heritage with JW Marriott’s craftsmanship to create meaningful dining experiences centred on togetherness, discovery, and mindful indulgence.
Premium villas with an azure view of the Indian Ocean
JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa offers selections of private villas, including its most prestigious accommodation, the premium Duplex Villa, ideal for families seeking space and privacy. This two-storey sanctuary features expansive living areas, a private pool, direct lagoon access, and sweeping views of the Indian Ocean. Elegant interiors are complemented by a master bedroom with a king-sized bed and a luxurious bathroom complete with a deep soaking tub, creating a refined retreat designed for effortless island living.
The resort also presents Overwater and Beach Pool Villas with sunrise or sunset views, modern design, and private pools. Beach Pool Villas offer secluded beachfront living amid lush greenery, while Overwater Pool Villas provide serene oceanfront settings with expansive decks and uninterrupted sea views.
The Endless Summer package elevates the stay with a USD 300 resort credit per stay, complemented by daily breakfast, a three-course lunch, and a three-course dinner for two at select restaurants. A one-time floating breakfast served in the privacy of the villa adds an indulgent highlight, while a 60% reduction on food at Hashi and Shio invites guests to explore the resort’s culinary offerings. Complimentary non-motorised watersports provide effortless enjoyment on the lagoon, alongside the attentive service of a dedicated Thakuru (personal butler), complimentary bicycles, and a one-time 30-minute photography session with one printed keepsake to preserve moments in paradise.
News
A lifestyle-led island escape takes shape at Ifuru Island Maldives
At Ifuru Island Maldives, tropical escapes are designed for travellers who crave both adventure and relaxation, making every day an opportunity to move, connect, and recharge. Guests start their mornings their own way, diving into the turquoise lagoon with snorkelling, watersports, or curated dive packages that reveal some of the Maldives’ most vibrant reefs. On land, the island offers endless ways to stay active; challenge friends or take on the resort’s Tennis coach, who provides expert guidance to help improve skills, enjoy a spirited game of pool volleyball, or explore the island through guided excursions that combine discovery with playful competition.
For those seeking wellness alongside adventure, Ifuru Island offers a range of mindful experiences. Guests can join Pilates, Yoga, and Sound Healing sessions to stretch, strengthen, and restore balance, or take part in the island’s signature Ice Bath & Bubbles Challenge, a unique experience that invigorates the body with cold-water therapy before relaxing in sparkling bubbles, awakening the senses and creating playful social connections.
Evenings at Ifuru Island transform into a stage of immersive entertainment. Guests are captivated by mesmerising Tanoura performances, live music sessions, DJ nights, and dazzling LED and Fire Shows, while weekly pool parties and themed events bring the island’s vibrant social energy to life under the stars.
For those who crave quiet moments or restorative downtime, the resort’s luxurious rooms provide a serene retreat where guests can unwind, enjoy the ocean views, or simply soak in the peaceful rhythm of island life. The premium all-inclusive offering adds freedom and flexibility for guests to dine and imbibe at their leisure, with a wide selection of meals and beverages included, allowing every guest to fully enjoy their Maldivian escape without worrying about planning every bite or sip.
Ifuru Island isn’t just a destination, it’s a lifestyle. From energising mornings and skill-building activities to wellness rituals, playful challenges, and immersive evening entertainment, every experience is designed to help guests move, connect, and unwind in perfect harmony, creating a Maldivian escape that feels both exhilarating and restorative.
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