Madifushi Private Island has announced the launch of Thinhama XP, a next-generation entertainment arcade that blends Maldivian heritage with contemporary gaming culture. Designed as a dynamic social space for guests of all ages, Thinhama XP redefines resort entertainment in the Maldives by merging tradition, technology, and interactive play.

The name Thinhama XP draws inspiration from “Thin Hama”, a traditional Maldivian strategy board game that has been played across generations. Known for its intellectual depth and strategic gameplay, “Thin Hama” reflects the rich cultural heritage of Maldivian leisure traditions. The addition of “XP” (Experience Points) introduces a modern gaming dimension, symbolizing achievement, progression, and skill development. Widely used in global gaming culture, XP represents growth through challenges and accomplishments. Together, Thinhama XP reflects the evolution of play—honouring the past while embracing the future.

Unlike conventional resort arcades, Thinhama XP has been thoughtfully designed as an immersive entertainment destination that goes beyond gaming machines. It is a multi-generational space where guests can connect, compete, and create shared memories. Guests can expect state-of-the-art arcade gaming experiences featuring modern titles and timeless classics, immersive interactive games that test reflexes, strategy, and skill, and multi-generational engagement that encourages families to play together. The space also features progression-based gameplay elements that reward continued participation, all within a fully climate-controlled environment ideal for both daytime and evening entertainment.

Thinhama XP strengthens Madifushi Private Island’s vision of delivering meaningful and differentiated guest experiences. It complements existing innovative concepts such as Kokko Learning Studio, further positioning the resort as a leader in experiential hospitality in the Maldives. Whether guests are seeking friendly competition, casual entertainment, or a relaxed indoor retreat, Thinhama XP offers an experience where every visit represents progression, achievement, and memorable island moments.

Mohamed Hilmy, General Manager of Madifushi Private Island commented: “Thinhama XP represents our continued commitment to redefining what a luxury island experience can be. We wanted to create a space where families, friends, and guests of all ages can come together through play, while also celebrating an important part of Maldivian cultural heritage. This is more than an arcade; it is a social and emotional experience designed for connection, competition, and joy.”

Ali Shakir, Group General Manager added: “At the group level, we are focused on developing concepts that are not only entertaining but also meaningful and distinctive. Thinhama XP is a perfect example of this vision in action. It bridges tradition and innovation in a way that is authentic to the Maldives, while also meeting the expectations of today’s global traveller who seeks immersive and memorable experiences.”

Madifushi Private Island is a luxury resort in the Maldives dedicated to delivering curated, high-end guest experiences through innovative concepts, personalised service, and culturally inspired programming.

Sun Siyam Iru Veli, under the Privé Collection of House of Sun Siyam, celebrated Maldives Children’s Day on 10th May by building community connections and joyful island experiences for young guests. The collaboration with Bandidhoo School for the occasion also reflected the resort’s ongoing commitment to fostering strong relationships with neighbouring islands and local communities.

As part of the Sun Siyam Cares programme, the resort presented a special cake to Bandidhoo School, where teachers and students gathered to mark the national occasion together. Bandidhoo remains one of the local islands closely connected to the resort through various community initiatives and meaningful collaborations carried out throughout the year. Guests visiting Sun Siyam Iru Veli also often experience the warmth of the island through the Local Island Discovery excursion, which offers a closer look at Maldivian culture alongside the many ongoing projects shared between the resort and Bandidhoo.

On the island, Turtle Kidz Club transformed Magoodhoo Beach into a lively evening filled with laughter and playful competition for younger guests staying at the resort. Children took part in a variety of fun-filled activities, including hopping relays, tug-of-war, and kite flying at the beach. The celebration brought families together through lighthearted moments designed to create lasting holiday memories in their island home.

Beyond the occasion itself, Turtle Kidz Club regularly curates a wide range of engaging experiences and activities tailored to children of different ages. Sun Siyam Iru Veli offers thoughtful moments of discovery, creativity, and fun for families seeking an intimate island escape in the Maldives.

“Children bring a unique energy and warmth to our island, and so creating experiences that become treasured family memories is something very important to us. Across the resort, our team connects with every child who visits, and is dedicated to deliver the heartfelt hospitality that defines the spirit of Sun Siyam,” said Masdhooq Saeed, General Manager of Sun Siyam Iru Veli. “Through Sun Siyam Care, we are equally grateful to continue sharing meaningful moments with our neighbouring communities as well.”

Families seeking a memorable tropical getaway can enjoy the dedicated Family Offer at Sun Siyam Iru Veli, thoughtfully curated for family getaways in a peaceful island setting. Located in South Nilandhe Atoll, the all-villa retreat is known for its spacious beach and overwater villas, each complete with a private pool. The resort offers a charmingly authentic island escape in a peaceful setting for families, couples, and travellers alike.

A newly reimagined menu at JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La’s Azur unfolds as a thoughtful expression of place, an exploration of flavour guided by nature, grounded in community, and elevated through a global perspective. More than a collection of dishes, it tells a story, one of origin, craftsmanship, and a philosophy that values authenticity as much as innovation.

The unveiling of the refreshed menu was marked by an intimate gathering of partners, brought together for an evening of tasting and discovery. Rather than a formal presentation, the experience was designed as a sensory journey, where each course revealed the intention, depth, and evolution behind the culinary direction.

Guests were guided through a curated tasting experience that reflected the menu’s defining principles: clarity of flavor, respect for ingredients, and a seamless balance between intention and quality. Each dish spoke not only of technique, but also of provenance, where it came from, who cultivated it, and why it mattered.

At the heart of the menu are Azur’s rooted in nature (RIN) dishes, created with sustainability as a guiding principle. By prioritizing locally sourced ingredients, these dishes reduce environmental impact while strengthening the connection between the kitchen and the community.

While deeply rooted in the Maldives, the menu draws inspiration from global culinary traditions, weaving familiar flavors into something distinctly its own. The result is cuisine that feels both comforting and refreshing, inviting guests to explore while remaining beautifully familiar.

This philosophy reflects the guiding principles of Shangri-La, where hospitality is defined by genuine care and attentiveness, and excellence is measured not only in precision, but in how responsibly and meaningfully it is delivered.

At the same time, it carries the vibrant, contemporary spirit of JEN, effortlessly connected to its surroundings, shaped by the people and place it belongs to, and rooted in modern travel experiences that feel both relaxed and meaningful.

Dining at Azur is shaped as much by its setting as by its cuisine. Open skies, the gentle rhythm of the water, and the ever present blue create a rooftop atmosphere that defines the experience at JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La. From this elevated space in the heart of the capital, dining feels open, relaxed, and naturally connected to its surroundings.

“Our menu is rooted in a sustainable philosophy, built around comforting, honest ingredients that connect with people on a deeper level. We focus on simplicity and flavour, letting each element shine without over complication. For me, creating a menu is about more than flavour and presentation. It’s about telling a story that respects both the environment and the community,” Chef Hardik Trehan said.

More than 50% of our produce is sourced locally from the Maldives, which allows us to work with fresher ingredients while supporting local farmers and fishermen. This not only enhances the quality of our dishes but also strengthens our connection to the community. For me, it’s about creating food that feels good, both in taste and in purpose bringing together comfort, sustainability, and a true sense of place.”

“The dessert selection at Azur beautifully blends locally sourced ingredients with refined international flavours, creating a unique and memorable experience. From Kashikeyo with screw pine, to the refreshing Tropical Wellness with coconut and fruits, and Dhonkeyo made from handpicked local bananas, each dessert reflects island authenticity,” added Pastry Chef Hameed.

“Thoughtfully crafted to suit every palate, the menu ranges from the richly indulgent Saffron Tres Leches to the decadent Molten Chocolate Lava. Whether light or indulgent, every guest is sure to find a favourite in this elegant collection.”

Here, above the rhythm of Malé, Azur finds its expression not as reinvention, but as refinement.

A space where nature, city, and cuisine come together effortlessly at the rooftop of JEN Maldives Malé. A place where dining feels unhurried, present, and deeply connected to its surroundings.