Awards
Equator Village celebrates success at SATA 2024 with dual Silver Awards

Equator Village has once again been recognised for its excellence at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2024, securing Silver Awards in both the Leading Airport Hotel/Resort and Leading Heritage Hotel/Resort categories. These accolades reinforce the resort’s standing as an ideal destination for travellers seeking a unique blend of comfort, heritage, and history in the Maldives.
The triumph of Equator Village at SATA 2024 continues its remarkable history of success, as this marks the third consecutive year the resort has been honoured with the Leading Heritage Resort Award at the South Asian Travel Awards, having previously won the award in 2022 and 2023. These consecutive awards underscore the resort’s commitment to preserving and celebrating the rich cultural and historical heritage of Addu Atoll, where the property is located.
Additionally, the resort secured the title of Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport Hotel Award at the World Travel Awards in both 2023 and 2024, marking two consecutive years of recognition for its outstanding service and prime location.
Set on the grounds of a former Royal Air Force Base in Addu Atoll, Equator Village offers guests a unique glimpse into the Maldives’ storied past. The continuing success of the resort at both the World Travel Awards and SATA reflects the dedication of its exceptional team in providing unmatched guest experiences while honouring the island’s historical significance.
“Winning these prestigious awards year after year is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our team at Equator Village. We are truly honoured to be recognised both regionally and internationally for our efforts to maintain the highest standards of hospitality and heritage preservation,” stated Mohamed Waheed, Resort Manager of Equator Village.
With its stunning location, rich history, and outstanding service, Equator Village continues to distinguish itself as a leading heritage and airport resort destination in the Maldives.
Awards
Sun Siyam Group shines at Global Peace Hospitality Summit with multiple international awards

In a distinguished evening celebrating global unity and purpose, Sun Siyam Group and its Founder and Chairman, Ahmed Siyam Mohamed, received top honours at the Global Peace Hospitality Summit & Awards 2025, held in Dubai. Organised by the Global Peace Institute (UK) in partnership with Impact Hub UAE, the summit welcomed over 200 leaders and delegates from 46 nations under the theme “Peace Through Hospitality.”
Siyam was awarded three of the night’s highest distinctions — the Golden Sail of Distinction and two Lifetime Achievement Awards for Hospitality & Service Excellence and Entrepreneurship & Business Innovation. He was the only recipient to receive all three accolades.
These awards recognised Siyam’s pioneering role in shaping the Maldives into a world-class tourism destination, as well as his longstanding contributions to national development, philanthropy, and youth empowerment. His leadership continues to exemplify how business success can align with sustainability and social progress to create lasting, positive impact.
In addition to these individual honours, Sun Siyam Group achieved six major awards across its resort portfolio, reaffirming its reputation as a leader in peace-driven hospitality and sustainable luxury.
The recognised resorts included:
- Siyam World Maldives – World’s Leading Lifestyle Resort
- Sun Siyam Pasikudah, Sri Lanka – Luxury Beachfront Retreat of the Year
- Sun Siyam Vilu Reef – Peaceful Indulgence Award
- Sun Siyam Iru Fushi – Luxury Peace Retreat
- Sun Siyam Iru Veli – Maldives’ Leading All-Inclusive Luxury Resort
- Sun Siyam Olhuveli – Indian Ocean’s Leading Family Lifestyle Resort
Siyam was joined at the event by his wife, Soukayna Hadfi, Vice President of Operations Abdulla Thamheed, Assistant Group General Manager and Sun Siyam Olhuveli General Manager Hassan Adil, and members of the brand’s Middle East sales and PR representation team, proudly representing Maldivian hospitality on the global stage.
The evening also witnessed the launch of the Golden Wing of Peace Movement, a new international initiative designed to unite leaders, creators, and institutions around conscious leadership and community-centred business. The gala featured two Wings of Harmony fashion showcases by Egyptian designer Nadine Ellithy, symbolising compassion, culture, and creativity as universal expressions of peace. The keynote address was delivered by General Dr Mohammed Al Shamsi, who highlighted the UAE’s growing role as a global exemplar of coexistence.
The Global Peace Institute (UK), an independent non-profit organisation promoting peace, diplomacy, and education, has previously hosted successful summits in London, Scotland, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand. Its Dubai edition reflected the deepening connection between hospitality and mindful leadership in a global context.
For Sun Siyam Group, the honours mark yet another milestone in a journey defined by Maldivian authenticity, mindful luxury, and purposeful hospitality — continuing a legacy of welcome, integrity, and global connection.
Awards
Sustainability meets luxury: Reethi Faru Resort crowned LUXE Global Winner 2025

Reethi Faru Resort, located in the heart of the Maldives, has been recognised as a LUXE Global Winner 2025, earning the titles of Best Luxury Sustainable Resort in the Indian Ocean and Best Luxury Resort Globally. This accolade reflects the resort’s continued dedication to integrating eco-conscious practices with exceptional guest experiences.
Surrounded by the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean, Reethi Faru Resort has become known for its reef conservation initiatives and its commitment to renewable energy. Each stay embodies a balance between indulgence and environmental responsibility, establishing the resort as a benchmark for sustainable luxury hospitality worldwide.
Commenting on the recognition, Tanique van Dijk, Director of Sales at LUXE Global, stated that Reethi Faru Resort stands as a shining example of how true luxury can align with environmental responsibility. She noted that the resort’s vision demonstrates how sustainability and elegance can coexist seamlessly, offering guests world-class hospitality while contributing to a more sustainable future.
Awards
RIU Maldives brings home Gold for RIU Hotels & Resorts at SATA 2025

RIU Hotels & Resorts, with particular recognition for RIU Maldives, has been named the “Leading Resort / Hotel Brand in South Asia – Gold Winner” at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2025.
The accolade reflects the brand’s continued commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences across the region. RIU Maldives’ signature offerings — including its renowned 24-hour all-inclusive service, in-room liquor dispensers, and a wide selection of themed restaurants available within the package — have been central to its appeal among travellers seeking both comfort and variety.
The award was accepted on behalf of the company by Mr. Sisitha Weerasekara, Head of Sales for the Maldives and Sri Lanka, during the recent SATA 2025 ceremony.
This achievement stands as a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire RIU team, reaffirming the brand’s mission to provide memorable and seamless holiday experiences in the Maldives and beyond.
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