While the Maldives has long captivated travellers with its turquoise lagoons, overwater villas and barefoot luxury, one part of its story has remained largely untold: its cuisine.

Across the islands, visitors often dine on flavours from around the world, rarely discovering the ingredients, traditions and recipes that have shaped Maldivian life for generations. At JA Manafaru, the secluded luxury resort in the northern Haa Alifu Atoll, that narrative is beginning to change with the launch of Kuri, an intimate treetop dining experience that celebrates the country’s culinary heritage in one of its most extraordinary settings.

Meaning “treetop” in Dhivehi, Kuri offers a dining experience unlike any other in the Maldives. Hidden within the branches of a living banyan tree, it welcomes just two guests as standard, or up to four for private celebrations, for an evening where the island itself becomes both the setting and the inspiration. Rather than looking out across the ocean, diners are invited to journey into the heart of the island, discovering a side of the Maldives that few visitors ever experience.

Rather than chasing global dining trends, Kuri begins with a simple question: what does the Maldives truly taste like? The answer unfolds through a five-course tasting menu built around a genuine zero-kilometre philosophy, where reef fish, coconut, pandan, screwpine and other native ingredients are sourced from the surrounding atoll, many travelling only metres from where they are grown, caught or harvested. Each course honours traditional Maldivian flavours while presenting them through a refined contemporary lens.

The menu itself tells the story of the Maldives through food. Guests begin with Muru Muru, delicate crispy tuna crackers inspired by the islands’ rich fishing heritage, before progressing through vibrant cured snapper, comforting pandan rice congee with grilled coconut and tuna floss, and the signature Ihi Musamma – a beautifully balanced Maldivian lobster curry served with coconut crepe and locally inspired accompaniments. The experience concludes with young coconut, screwpine ice cream and candied Maldivian nuts, a dessert that captures the tropical flavours of the island in every bite.

Bringing this story to life is Executive Chef Moosa Nazeeh, whose menu is deeply rooted in the flavours of his homeland. Instead of recreating international fine dining in paradise, he shines a spotlight on recipes, ingredients and techniques that have been passed through generations, inviting guests to experience a side of the Maldives that is rarely found within the country’s luxury resorts.

Every detail surrounding the meal has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the same philosophy. Carefully built around a living banyan tree, the timber platform sits beneath a natural canopy illuminated by lanterns after sunset, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and entirely immersed in nature. Even the ceramics tell part of the story, with every plate, bowl and cup handcrafted at JA Manafaru’s own on-island clay studio and finished with a delicate watercolour illustration of the very banyan tree that shelters the dining table above.

And while the experience celebrates craftsmanship and culinary artistry, Kuri never takes itself too seriously. After dessert, guests swap the staircase for a gently curving slide back down to the sand, bringing the evening to an unexpected and joy-filled close that leaves almost everyone smiling long after dinner has ended.

Already recognised for creating experiences that connect guests with the culture and natural beauty of the northern Maldives, JA Manafaru continues to look beyond traditional luxury. Kuri is the latest expression of that philosophy, proving that some of the most memorable moments in the Maldives aren’t found over the water, but beneath the shade of an ancient banyan tree, where every meal tells the story of the island itself.

When: Available for dinner daily

Offer Inclusions: An intimate five-course treetop dining experience celebrating authentic Maldivian cuisine through a thoughtfully curated 0km tasting menu, set within the canopy of a living banyan tree.

Price: USD 175++ per person

Terms & Conditions:

• Advance reservation is required
• Subject to availability
• Maximum of four guests per seating
• For reservations and more information, please email at manafaru@jaresorts.com

JOALI Maldives has announced two exclusive tennis residencies with Grand Slam champions Elena Rybakina and Ana Ivanović, bringing world-class tennis to the island across November and the festive season.

Designed for both adults and younger players, the residencies offer guests the rare opportunity to step onto the court with two of the sport’s most accomplished athletes through intimate clinics and camps that combine technique, confidence, discipline and the joy of the game.

Set within JOALI Maldives’ philosophy of Creative Living, the programme brings a dynamic sporting dimension to island life, creating meaningful opportunities for guests to learn directly from champions while enjoying a highly personalised experience in the Maldives.

Game. Set. Inspire. with Elena Rybakina | 17–23 November 2026

Wimbledon Champion and Australian Open Champion 2026 Elena Rybakina invites guests to experience the game through the eyes of a Grand Slam champion.

Known for her powerful serve, precision and calm determination, Elena made history as Kazakhstan’s first Grand Slam singles champion when she claimed the Wimbledon title in 2022, before adding the 2026 Australian Open title to her achievements. She also reached a career-high ranking of World No. 2 in women’s singles.

Through two exclusive workshops for adults and younger players, guests will have the rare opportunity to train alongside one of the world’s leading athletes while discovering the discipline, focus and joy behind championship-level tennis.

Play Like a Champion with Ana Ivanović | 22–27 December 2026

Former World No. 1 Ana Ivanović brings her passion for tennis and Grand Slam-winning legacy to JOALI Maldives for an exclusive festive-season residency. Celebrated for her powerful forehand, competitive spirit and elegant style of play, Ana captured the 2008 French Open title before becoming World No. 1 in women’s singles and earning global acclaim as a modern tennis icon.

Guests will be invited to share the court with Ana across two exclusive workshops. The 60-minute Tennis Clinic for adults, ages 16 and above, focuses on the techniques, strategy and discipline that shaped her career. The 60-minute Tennis Camp for children ages 4 to 15 offers a lively introduction to tennis, helping young players develop skills, build confidence and find their rhythm on court.

From November through the festive season, the two residencies bring together championship-level sport and JOALI Maldives’ distinctive approach to meaningful guest experiences. With programming created for adults and families alike, guests can discover tennis in an intimate island setting while learning directly from two Grand Slam champions.

Back by popular demand, Niva Kuramathi Maldives has announced the return of Campioni Soccer Academy for 2027. Taking place over Easter 2027 and Summer 2027, the football academy for aspiring young players aged 4-16, is a celebration of sport, sunshine and island spirit.

Week One, Easter 2027: 29th March to 3rd April 2027 | Led by Andy Cole and UEFA ‘A’ Licensed coach Adrian Whitbread

Week Two, Summer 2027: 26th – 31st July 2027 | Led by Stuart Pearce MBE and UEFA ‘A’ Licensed coach Adrian Whitbread

Experience the ultimate family getaway with Campioni and Niva Kuramathi; set against the turquoise backdrop of the Indian Ocean, Campioni transforms Niva Kuramathi’s pristine football pitch into a training ground led by former Premier League players and UEFA coaches. It’s an opportunity of a lifetime to be coached for two-hours, daily, whilst on holiday, by legendary players who have played and managed teams at the highest level.

Welcoming one of England’s best known and most loved football icons Stuart Pearce MBE, and one of the Premier League’s all-time great strikers Andy Cole, each joined by UEFA ‘A’ licensed coach Adrian Whitbread, this year Campioni promises two unforgettable weeks of daily training sessions in paradise.

Andy Cole is best known for his hugely successful spell at Manchester United, where he won five Premier League titles, two FA Cups and the Champions League as part of the historic 1999 Treble-winning side. Cole brings world-class experience and inspiration to Campioni Soccer Academy; renowned for his sharp finishing, professionalism, and winning mentality. His involvement gives young players a unique chance to learn from a true legend and understand what it takes to succeed at the highest level.

One of England’s most respected football legends, Stuart Pearce plays an inspiring role at Campioni Soccer Academy, where he helps train and mentor young players. Known for his passion, leadership, and determination both on and off the pitch, Pearce brings a wealth of experience from his illustrious career, which includes captaining England and managing at the highest levels of the game. His involvement at Campioni provides aspiring footballers with a unique opportunity to learn from one of the sport’s greats, gaining valuable insights into teamwork, discipline, and what it truly takes to succeed in football.

The week-long Academy begins with an oceanfront welcome reception where families meet the legends, collect their bespoke training kits, and toast to the week ahead.

From Monday to Saturday, children take part in daily interactive training sessions under the expert guidance of the pros, focusing on technical skills, game awareness and overall development using the FA’s 4 Corner Model. Learning the importance of teamwork, strategy, and sportsmanship, this is a chance for boys and girls of all abilities to learn from the best in the game while creating unforgettable memories.

Parents can unwind across the resort knowing their children are safe, active, and inspired – or lace up their own boots for the Parents’ Game midweek – a crowd favourite that turns the pitch into a playground for all ages.

“I can’t wait to return to Niva Kuramathi for the Campioni Soccer Academy in Summer 2027. Last year’s academy was such a memorable experience, and I’m excited to meet another group of families and young players. What makes Campioni so special is seeing the confidence and potential that comes through in every session. It’s about more than football, it’s about encouraging young people to believe in themselves, aim high and enjoy the journey along the way,” said Stuart Pearce MBE.

“Campioni Soccer Academy is always an incredible experience, and I’m really looking forward to joining the team at Niva Kuramathi next Easter. It’s always rewarding to see families come together and watch kids learn, grow and have fun through football, while also enjoying everything a destination like the Maldives has to offer. I’m sure this will be a truly memorable academy, and I can’t wait to see the young players embrace the experience, make new friends and create memories that will stay with them long after they leave the island,” said Andy Cole.

The soccer academy reaches beyond the resort. Local Maldivian football clubs will once again join, with young players receiving special coaching sessions led by Cole and Pearce – inspiration and skills passed to the next generation of island footballers.

The Campioni Football Academy places children on the pitch each morning – skills sharpening, friendships forming, the ocean a constant presence at the edge of play. When the final whistle sounds at the end of each daily session, an entire island opens up.

Bageecha Kids Club – complimentary for children aged three to twelve – offers botanic walks, marine encounters, creative workshops, open-air movies, and beach barbecues unfold across a two-week rotating programme designed so that curiosity never runs dry. Open daily from 8.30 am to 6.30 pm, with babysitting available until midnight with 24 hours’ notice.

The Eco Centre invites families to learn about the reef, meet resident marine experts, and take part in coral planting. At the Hydroponics Garden, young explorers discover how the island grows its own produce. Beneath the surface, the house reef reveals grey reef sharks, turtles, and manta rays – reached by guided snorkelling safaris or semi-submarine. On the water, windsurfing and catamaran sailing await, with private lessons available for children aged twelve and above.

While children play, LIME Wellbeing draws on ancient Maldivian ritual and natural oils. Offering a quiet return to balance, the lagoon close and still. As the day eases into evening, the island’s rhythm shifts. Live music and DJ sets create a soundscape across the island, from mellow sunset sessions to late night, upbeat tempos. Parents slip away for cocktails at Laguna Bar or Champagne at the Loft. Dinner unfolds across nine à la carte restaurants: The Reef, La Belle Vie, the theatre of Kobe, Tandoor Mahal, and Siam Garden.

Eleven villa categories open onto sand or sea – from palm-fringed Beach Bungalows to the expansive Two-Bedroom Beach House, a duplex for up to six adults or four adults and two children, with separate living spaces and lagoon views that stretch to the horizon. All Campioni academy participants are required to stay at Niva Kuramathi Maldives for the duration of the programme.

For further information and reservations, please call +960 666 01 50 or email: reservations@nivakuramathi.com. For more inspiration visit, www.nivakuramathi.com.