News
Hyatt partners with SingHaiyi to launch luxurious Hyatt Regency Samarafushi Maldives
Hyatt Hotels Corporation has announced that one of its affiliates has signed a management agreement with SingHaiyi for the development of Hyatt Regency Samarafushi Maldives. Set in the stunning North Malé Atoll, this new all-villa resort will mark the Hyatt Regency brand’s debut in the Maldives. The property, scheduled to open in late 2027, will join Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa and Alila Kothaifaru Maldives, becoming the third Hyatt property in the Maldives.
David Udell, Group President of Asia Pacific at Hyatt, expressed excitement over the new collaboration: “The Hyatt Regency brand is built on a foundation of bringing people together and creating a sense of community. For over 55 years, we have inspired travellers across more than 40 countries to connect on personal and professional levels. We are delighted to partner with SingHaiyi to offer guests in the Maldives an opportunity to discover new experiences in one of the world’s top resort destinations.”

Gallant Tang, Executive Director of SingHaiyi, added: “Hyatt Regency Samarafushi Maldives will be SingHaiyi Hospitality’s second property in the Maldives and is key to expanding our strategic presence in this sought-after destination. We chose to collaborate with Hyatt due to its strong reputation and leadership in the hospitality industry, and we are eager to create a resort that embodies the qualities that guests expect from the Hyatt Regency brand.”
Conveniently located just 25 minutes from Malé’s Velana International Airport by speedboat, the resort will offer easy access for guests seeking a peaceful retreat while enjoying the vibrant marine life and cultural attractions nearby. North Malé Atoll is well-known for its proximity to popular diving and snorkelling spots, where manta rays and hawksbill turtles can be seen. The area is also home to some of the best surfing destinations, such as Pasta Point and Sultans, all within reach of the resort.

Spread over 24 acres (10 hectares) of breathtaking landscape, the resort will feature 130 luxurious villas, including beachfront, treetop, and overwater options, each with a private pool. Designed by Park + Associates, the architecture blends traditional Maldivian elements with a soft, natural aesthetic. Guests will enjoy diverse dining experiences, including a sunset bar, beach club, Japanese restaurant, and an all-day dining option. World of Hyatt Globalists and those staying in villas with club access can also enjoy the exclusive Regency Club lounge.
The resort will cater to visitors of all ages with a variety of amenities, such as a dedicated kid’s club, a marine and diving centre, a fitness pavilion, a yoga deck, and a spa offering eight treatment rooms. Whether seeking adventure or relaxation, Hyatt Regency Samarafushi Maldives promises to provide a memorable and immersive experience for every guest.
News
Cinnamon Maldives updates book direct offer to let guests choose tailored experiences
Travellers continue to return to the Maldives in search of clear lagoons, warm hospitality and meaningful experiences that reflect both the destination and their personal interests. As visitor expectations evolve, research shows a growing preference for stays that feel tailored rather than standardised. A recent Mews survey reports that 68% of travellers prefer personalised experiences instead of generic rewards, with even stronger interest among Gen Z and affluent travellers.
Recognising these preferences, Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts Maldives has refined its Book Direct value offering. The updated structure allows guests who book directly to select two curated experiences from each resort’s personalised list while also receiving resort credits for stays of three nights or more. This credit can be used across dining, wellness and recreational activities, giving guests the freedom to shape their time on the island according to their interests and pace.
Members of Cinnamon Discovery, the brand’s loyalty programme, can access an expanded set of Book Direct benefits based on their membership tier. Silver members may select two experiences, Gold members may select three experiences and Platinum members receive all experiences listed at the resort they book.
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Island hopping adventure
- Dolphin safari
- 45 minute spa treatment
Resort credit available: USD 150 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Balinese massage
- Island hopping adventure
- Guided swim and snorkel session
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
Cinnamon Hakuraa Huraa Maldives
- Sunset fishing
- Island hopping adventure
- Sparkling bottle of beverage
- 1 hour double kayak experience
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon
- Four course dinner by the beach
- Balinese massage
- Sunset fishing
- Dolphin safari
Resort credit available: USD 100 per room per stay for bookings of three nights or more
For more information on Book Direct benefits, detailed terms and eligibility, guests are encouraged to visit Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts.
Cooking
Chef Frank Fol leads plant-based culinary programme at ananea Madivaru Maldives
ananea Madivaru Maldives is hosting Chef Frank Fol, founder of We’re Smart World and a recognised figure in plant-based gastronomy, for a dedicated culinary programme aimed at strengthening and refining the resort’s plant-based dining concepts.
Chef Fol is visiting the island from 8 to 14 December, working closely with the culinary team to develop and enhance plant-forward offerings across the resort’s dining experiences. The programme focuses on integrating contemporary plant-based techniques with locally relevant ingredients and presentation styles, aligning with evolving guest preferences for balanced and conscious dining.
As part of the visit, an internal tasting menu is scheduled to take place, bringing together Chef Fol and the resort’s senior leadership. During the session, Chef Fol will present a selection of plant-forward dishes developed throughout his stay, offering insight into his culinary philosophy and approach to modern vegetable-led cuisine.
ananea Madivaru Maldives stated that the collaboration is intended to support the continued development of its food and beverage concepts, with a particular emphasis on broadening high-quality plant-based options available to guests across its restaurants.
Following the tasting session, the resort will issue a formal press release outlining the programme outcomes, including details of the dishes, concepts, and future plans. Visual assets and supporting media materials will also be made available as part of the official announcement.
The visit forms part of ananea Madivaru Maldives’ wider efforts to evolve its culinary offerings in line with global dining trends while maintaining a strong focus on quality, creativity, and guest experience.
Featured
Kuramathi Maldives announces private wellness programmes with Imron Zulfikar
Kuramathi Maldives has announced the arrival of esteemed holistic wellness practitioner Imron Zulfikar, who will undertake an exclusive residency at the resort from 15 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. During this period, guests will have the opportunity to participate in bespoke wellness experiences crafted by a recognised expert in integrative health.
Throughout his residency, Imron will conduct a series of private wellness sessions designed to restore balance, promote renewal, and enhance long-term wellbeing. His practice brings together ancient therapeutic traditions and contemporary fitness science, resulting in personalised programmes that support harmony, mobility, and emotional resilience. Signature offerings include:
- Watsu Water Healing Journey: A restorative treatment conducted in warm water, combining elements of shiatsu, massage, and gentle movement to release deep tension, soothe the nervous system, and foster a sense of tranquillity.
- Chakra Balance Therapy: A holistic session that aligns mind and body through crystal healing, guided meditation, and calming massage techniques.
- Meridian Deep Release Massage: A therapeutic blend of deep tissue massage and acupressure aimed at easing chronic tension, improving flexibility, and stimulating energy flow.
- Accu Glow Facial: A rejuvenating facial incorporating acupuncture and customised skincare to activate collagen production, detoxify the skin, and enhance natural luminosity.
- Oriental Slim Detox Massage: A treatment grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine, combining acupuncture and massage to promote lymphatic drainage and support detoxification.
Imron is an accomplished wellness lifestyle coach and holistic fitness specialist with more than ten years of experience in acupuncture, tension release therapies, yoga, Pilates, and personal training. His integrative methodology nurtures physical alignment, emotional balance, and overall vitality.
He has worked with numerous luxury resorts and an impressive roster of high-profile clients, including Serena Williams, Emma Watson, Richard Branson, and members of the UAE Royal Family. Celebrated for his intuitive approach and refined technique, Richard Branson has previously referred to Imron as having “golden hands.”
Kuramathi Maldives looks forward to offering guests this exceptional opportunity to engage in transformative, individually tailored wellness experiences during Imron’s residency.
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