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Celebration of renewal, hope at Sun Siyam Iru Veli this Eid al-Fitr

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Marking this year’s Eid Al-Fitr, Sun Siyam Iru Veli celebrated a season of new beginnings while embracing the roots of Maldivian culture. The evening of 30th March unfolded with a series of games on the beach as the island came alive with the festivities. The traditional activity of ‘Kula Jehun,’ a colour festival, painted the beach in bright hues as guests of all ages enjoyed the evening.

However, the true highlight of Eid at Sun Siyam Iru Veli took place two days later, on 1st April, with the official opening of Magoodhoo Beach. This was a moment that symbolised not only the joy of the season but also the resort’s commitment to preserving nature. Guests were invited to a sundowner cocktail celebrating the coconut palm—a plant deeply rooted in Maldivian history and symbolising growth and utility. As part of the celebration, guests were also invited to plant their own trees, leaving a lasting connection to the resort that they can return to and visit in years to come.

This event embodied the very essence of Eid, celebrating hope, renewal, and transformation. It honoured the Maldivian coconut palms on every front while showcasing the palm trees originally uprooted from N. Magoodhoo due to a road development project, which has now been preserved and relocated to their new home on the previously known Dolphin Beach. While 71 coconut palms had already been transplanted, 80 more trees were added by the guests. These resilient palms, along with the newly rooting ones, serve as a symbol of growth and new beginnings. They also represent the unwavering commitment of Sun Siyam Iru Veli to a greener future, where tradition and preservation coexist in perfect harmony.

In addition to learning about the journey of these trees, guests were also able to discover the many gifts brought to us by the coconut palm. From the handcrafted souvenirs made from palm leaves to the cocktails and canapés featuring coconut as the central ingredient, every experience highlighted the depth and versatility of the nation’s most iconic tree.

This event was not just a moment to reflect on the island’s conservation efforts but also an opportunity to witness a new sense of connection to the land. At Sun Siyam Iru Veli, every replanted palm tree reflects the deep respect for nature and the resort’s dedication to nurturing the paradise we all cherish.

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Kandolhu Maldives introduces new villas and gastronomic journeys

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Kandolhu Maldives has announced a new season of island experiences, highlighting the resort’s refurbished Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas and a series of exclusive dining collaborations with internationally acclaimed chefs. The resort aims to offer guests opportunities to rediscover its intimate setting through refreshed accommodation and elevated culinary events.

The newly enhanced Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas, each spanning 120 sqm, have been designed with relaxation and comfort in mind. The villas now feature a spacious bedroom, a light-filled bathroom with a deep oval bathtub overlooking the Indian Ocean, and a private deck furnished with sun loungers and a sun umbrella. A new 23 sqm private pool has also been added, alongside a hammock suspended above the water, offering uninterrupted ocean views.

The resort has also introduced a line-up of exclusive dining events, bringing together Michelin-starred chefs and distinguished winemakers. These collaborations, hosted at Olive restaurant, combine fine cuisine with curated wine pairings, promising immersive gastronomic experiences.

  • 3 October 2025: Chef Bernd Bachofer will present a degustation menu combining Japanese, Southeast Asian, and French haute cuisine. The evening will be paired with vintages from New Zealand’s Schubert Wines, led by winemaker Kai Schubert. Chef Bachofer, awarded a Michelin star in 2015, brings decades of expertise from renowned kitchens in Germany and Switzerland.
  • 23 November 2025: The Kandolhu culinary team, headed by Chef Justin, will prepare a five-course Mediterranean dinner paired with Stonefish wines. Wine expert Peter Papanikitas will guide guests through each course, providing insights into the pairings.
  • 3 December 2025: Michelin-starred Chef Theodor Falser will craft contemporary interpretations of Italian cuisine in a five-course dinner for just 14 guests. Each course will be paired with fine Italian wines, offering an intimate dining experience.

Kandolhu’s Island Hosts, Claudio Stupan and Luciana Codiferro, commented, “Our vision has always been to create a space where guests feel both completely relaxed and deeply inspired. With refreshed villas and new culinary journeys ahead, we are proud to offer an experience that truly reflects the spirit of Kandolhu.”

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Bavarian traditions meet island living at Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s Oktoberfest

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Sun Siyam Olhuveli has announced that it will host its own take on Oktoberfest from 1 to 5 October 2025, bringing one of the world’s most recognised celebrations to a tropical island setting. The resort will combine Bavarian traditions with Maldivian hospitality, offering guests a week-long programme of music, food, and festivities.

A highlight of the event will be a performance by international DJ twins Kristina and Anna Grushina. With a strong global following of more than two million on social media and chart-topping success on Spotify, the sisters are renowned for their high-energy sets that transform any stage into a vibrant dance floor. Their performance on the resort’s beachfront is expected to be a key feature of this year’s festival.

Alongside live music, the festival will present German brews and themed culinary experiences inspired by Oktoberfest. Guests will be able to enjoy Bavarian-style dishes alongside a selection of hops and lagers served beachside. To add to the atmosphere, family-friendly activities and games will be organised throughout the resort, creating a spirit of connection and celebration in an island environment.

“We are excited to bring together international music talent, authentic gastronomy, and our island’s natural beauty in this celebration,” said Hassan Adil, General Manager of Sun Siyam Olhuveli. “Every year, Oktoberfest and many other celebrations at Sun Siyam Olhuveli continue to highlight culture, community, and entertainment in a way that is unique to our resort and to the Maldives.”

The five-day festival will not only celebrate Oktoberfest but also demonstrate Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s ability to host immersive experiences that blend international entertainment with the relaxed lifestyle of the Maldives. Guests staying at the resort during this period will experience a beachfront festival of music, cuisine, and festivities designed to leave a lasting impression.

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MU Maniku, key architect of Maldives tourism industry, dies

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Mohamed Umar Maniku (MU Maniku), a key figure in the establishment and growth of the Maldives tourism industry, has died in Singapore. He passed away on Saturday while in intensive care at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, where he had been receiving medical treatment for about a month.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Universal Enterprises announced:

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mohamed Umar ‘M.U.’ Maniku on 30th August 2025 at 0630 hrs Singapore time in Mount Elizabeth Hospital, Singapore. As Chairman of Universal Enterprises, he will forever be remembered as a pioneer whose vision, loyalty and integrity were felt by generations of industry professionals, who will remember him with deep affection and respect. He had been an integral part of the inception and growth of the tourism industry in the Maldives. We remember a man whose legacy cannot be confined to a date or a place.”

“To those close to him, M.U. Maniku was a guiding light. He was the steady hand that led Universal Enterprises through decades of change, and a mentor for many. He is survived by his wife, children, grandchildren and extended family. The family wishes to express their sincere gratitude to all who have offered support and condolences during this difficult time.”

Maniku was part of the group that opened Kurumba Maldives in 1972, the country’s first resort, widely regarded as the starting point of the modern tourism industry in the Maldives.

As Chairman and a principal shareholder of Universal Enterprises/Universal Resorts, Maniku oversaw the development of a portfolio that has included properties such as Kurumba, Kuramathi, Baros, Velassaru, Kandolhu, Milaidhoo and Huvafen Fushi.

Beyond the Maldives, he also served as Chairman of Mahaweli Reach Hotels PLC in Sri Lanka from 2012, reflecting the group’s cross-border hospitality interests.

Maniku chaired the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), which was formed in 1982 to represent resort owners and operators and to engage with government on policy and sector development. Under his leadership, MATI became a key platform for industry coordination and dialogue.

Contributions and legacy:

  • Pioneering market entry (1972): Helped establish Kurumba and proved the commercial viability of resort tourism in the country.
  • Resort development: Guided Universal’s expansion into multiple resort segments, supporting destination diversification and supply growth.
  • Institution-building: Long-time chairmanship of MATI, fostering private-sector collaboration on standards, training and policy.
  • Regional footprint: Leadership roles in hospitality ventures beyond the Maldives, including Mahaweli Reach Hotels.

Maniku had been hospitalised in Singapore for several weeks prior to his passing; local media had reported his transfer to intensive care at Mount Elizabeth Hospital.

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