News
Xiamen Airlines Inaugurates Direct Flights from Fujian Province to Maldives
Visit Maldives has welcomed the first direct flight from Fujian Province, China, to the Maldives. A special ceremony was held today at Velana International Airport to mark the joyous occasion, commemorating the arrival of Xiamen Airlines flight MF8017 carrying tourists from the Fujian Province to the Maldives.
The tourists were greeted with a vibrant traditional BoduBeru performance, and presented with a special gift pack, including flowers. Dignitaries attending the event included the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to the Maldives, H.E Ambassador Wang Lixin; and representatives from the Ministry of Tourism; Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL); Maldives Immigration; Maldives Customs Service; and other government enterprises and tourism associations in the Maldives.

China has long remained a crucial market for the Maldives tourism industry. The resumption of direct flights from China to the Maldives on January 18, 2023 contributed generously to tourist arrivals last year, with over 187,125 tourists from China visiting the Maldives, solidifying its place as one of the Maldives’ top three source markets. Notably, earlier this year on January 19, we welcomed the first direct flight from Hong Kong to the Maldives since 2020, which has contributed to a significant increase in Chinese visitors to our destination. Maldives also achieved the milestone of highest number of tourist arrivals in a single day on February 12, 2024. On that note, the surge in tourist arrivals is attributed to the growing number of tourists from China, reclaiming its position as the leading source market to the Maldives.
MMPRC consistently promotes the Maldives as the premier destination in the Chinese market through strategic marketing endeavours. The Maldives achieved its highest-ever tourist arrivals last year, surpassing 1.8 million visitors. MMPRC has planned numerous
activities for the Chinese market this year, including an e-learning campaign, digital promotions on leading Chinese apps, outdoor marketing initiatives, joint promotional campaigns, familiarisation trips, social media campaigns, and active participation in fairs and exhibitions.
The inauguration of direct flights from the Fujian Province to the Maldives and the targeted marketing activities in the Chinese market will undoubtedly contribute positively to the Maldives tourism industry, and further enhance the Maldives’ position as the top-of-the-mind destination for Chinese travellers.
News
‘Around the World in Wonder’ brings culture, cuisine, celebration to Amilla Maldives
The festive season is in full swing at Amilla Maldives, where the island has come alive with Around the World in Wonder, a journey through global cultures, flavours and traditions. Inspired by Jules Verne’s Around the World in 80 Days, the celebration runs from 20 December 2025 to 6 January 2026, inviting guests to explore the world without leaving the island.
A meaningful early highlight of the programme was Amilla’s 11th anniversary on 21 December, marked by a festive cocktail and cake-cutting ceremony, followed by a Maldivian Night with bodu beru performances. The celebrations continued with the Tree Lighting Ceremony, which formed the glowing centrepiece of an Italian-themed Masquerade Ball. The evening unfolded with Viennese waltz performances and a fire show, while carolers filled the air with gentle festive melodies.
Christmas Eve turned its focus to France, featuring the lively Dance of the Can-Can, a festive buffet and aerial hoop performances. On Christmas Day, Argentina took centre stage as Santa arrived by yacht and rolled into the festive train buggy, leading a joyful island parade and gift-giving moments. The day continued with a festive brunch celebrating flavour, fun and festive cheer.
Festivities will build towards New Year’s Eve, with the Around the World in a Cocktail party and Global Carnival Event, including live performances from the Hamilton Band, bongo beats, soaring saxophone, acrobats and fire dancers, culminating in a countdown to 2026 under the Maldivian night sky.
Every detail has been thoughtfully prepared by the Amilla Maldives team, allowing guests to relax, explore and celebrate in a setting shaped by nature, warmth and wonder.
Click here to explore the full festive programme at Amilla Maldives. For more information about Amilla Maldives, please visit www.amilla.com.
News
Christmas at Fushifaru Maldives begins with tree lighting, Boduberu, kids’ activities
Fushifaru Maldives welcomed the Christmas season in grand style, beginning with a mesmerising tree lighting ceremony on 20 December set against the serene sunset at Thundi, accompanied by live music and tantalising canapés to mark the start of the celebrations. The holiday season runs from 20 December to 6 January, offering a variety of family-friendly activities, including cupcake decorating, pool parties, Boduberu classes, sandcastle making, and tennis classes for the little ones.
On Christmas Eve, 24 December, guests enjoyed a truly unforgettable celebration. The evening began with Santa’s arrival and a sunset aperitif with kids’ gift-giving, followed by a Christmas Gala Dinner featuring an extensive selection of international cuisines. Seafood lovers delighted in a live grilled station featuring jumbo prawns, lobsters, fishes, clams, octopus, and many more, all beautifully displayed on the Maldivian Dhoni boat, alongside a dedicated Japanese corner offering fresh sashimi, oysters, and other delicacies.
For dessert, the chefs presented a heavenly assortment including mousses, crème brûlée, tiramisu, macarons, meringues, soufflés, and many more, ensuring every guest indulged in a sweet finale. The night culminated in a vibrant disco by DJ Elton and a breathtaking performance by Anastasia Gordienko, a talented hula hoops, LED, and aerial gymnastics performer, leaving guests in awe and perfectly closing the Christmas Eve celebration.
News
Villa Nautica hosts Bollywood filmmaker Farah Khan for holiday stay
Bollywood filmmaker and celebrated choreographer Farah Khan marked the festive season with a holiday escape to the Maldives, staying at Villa Nautica and experiencing the island’s signature mix of warmth, privacy, and ocean-side celebration.
A defining creative force in Indian entertainment, Farah Khan has shaped some of Hindi cinema’s most recognisable on-screen moments, from iconic dance sequences to blockbuster storytelling. Widely regarded as one of Bollywood’s most influential choreographers, she has worked across more than 80 films and received major recognition for her craft, including India’s National Film Award for Best Choreography and multiple Filmfare Awards.

Farah’s impact extends beyond choreography. As a director, she is known for beloved mainstream hits including Main Hoon Na, Om Shanti Om, and Happy New Year, bringing together spectacle, humour, and heart with a style that audiences instantly connect with. She is also a familiar face to viewers through television and entertainment formats, where her sharp wit and straightforward personality have made her a standout on screen.
Villa Nautica is located on Lankanfinolhu Island in the North Malé Atoll, just 20 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, making it an easy choice for travellers planning a festive season getaway in the Maldives. The resort is known for its yacht-life inspired spirit, shimmering lagoons, and a vibrant range of ocean experiences, including diving and watersports, paired with relaxed island luxury for all-day unwinding.
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