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New era of sustainable luxury: Veligandu Maldives now fully powered by solar energy

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Veligandu Maldives Resort Island has reached a significant milestone in its sustainability journey with the successful completion and full operation of its Solar Energy Initiative—a major advancement towards cleaner and greener island living. Following two weeks of comprehensive testing, the resort can now operate entirely on solar power for up to eight hours a day under optimal sunny conditions. This remarkable achievement underscores Veligandu’s long-standing commitment to responsible tourism while continuing to deliver world-class luxury experiences.

The transition marks a substantial reduction in the resort’s dependence on diesel generators and contributes meaningfully to minimising its environmental footprint. It also exemplifies how innovation and sustainability can coexist harmoniously within the essence of authentic Maldivian hospitality.

The initiative began in July 2024, when Veligandu partnered with Swimsol, an Austrian company renowned for pioneering solar energy solutions across island nations. Following months of detailed consultations, design assessments, and strategic planning, the first phase of the project—completed ahead of the resort’s grand reopening on 10 November 2024—introduced the solar infrastructure without battery storage. The final phase, including the installation of a 1,668-kW battery storage system, was completed and launched on 19 September 2025, marking the full realisation of Veligandu’s solar energy vision.

Today, the system comprises 3,003 solar panels generating up to 1,441 kW of power, supported by advanced battery storage technology. Together, they enable the resort to run entirely on solar energy for up to eight hours each day, reducing daily carbon emissions by approximately 4,750 kilograms of CO₂. This milestone represents a major step forward in the resort’s mission to lead by example in sustainable island operations.

“This is an incredible milestone for Veligandu and for sustainable tourism in the Maldives,” said Fathuhulla Ibrahim, General Manager of Veligandu Maldives Resort Island. “On a good-weather day, we can now power the entire island purely through solar energy, allowing our generators to rest for up to eight hours—something unimaginable just a year ago. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to our Owners for their vision and investment in a greener tomorrow. Their foresight has enabled us to transform our operations and reduce our carbon footprint in a meaningful way. I also wish to thank our dedicated team and partners who have worked tirelessly to make this dream a reality.”

He continued, “The impact is truly transformative. For the first time in forty years, guests visiting our back-of-house area can experience the generator room in complete silence—a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come. And for our guests, the experience remains seamless. Imagine spending your day snorkelling, diving, or enjoying water sports under the Maldivian sun, returning to your villa where your air conditioning, lights, and water are all powered by clean solar energy. Without even realising it, you become part of this sustainability journey. This achievement belongs to every member of our team, our partners, and our guests who share our belief in a greener tomorrow. Together, we are shaping the future of sustainable luxury tourism.”

This strategic development marks a new chapter in eco-conscious hospitality, aligning Veligandu Maldives Resort Island with global sustainability goals and reinforcing the Maldives’ position as a leader in responsible island tourism.

“By integrating renewable energy into our daily operations, we are not only safeguarding the fragile environment that makes the Maldives so extraordinary, but also strengthening our competitive position in the luxury travel market,” said Ahmed Shaheen, Chief Commercial Leader of Crown & Champa Resorts. “Today’s traveller is more environmentally aware than ever before. Our transition to clean energy reflects both our understanding of this shift and our responsibility to lead by example.”

Looking ahead, Veligandu Maldives plans to expand its renewable energy storage capacity and incorporate advanced energy management systems to further enhance operational efficiency and stability. The resort’s long-term vision is to operate entirely on solar energy, positioning itself as a model for sustainable island operations in the region.

Part of the Crown & Champa Resorts collection, Veligandu Maldives Resort Island is celebrated for its intimate charm, turquoise lagoon, and eco-conscious approach to luxury. Reopened in November 2024 as a five-star ultra-luxury resort, Veligandu blends authentic Maldivian warmth with progressive sustainability initiatives—redefining barefoot luxury for the modern traveller. With its solar-powered operations now fully functional, Veligandu continues to demonstrate that true luxury lies not only in comfort and beauty, but in the harmony between people, place, and planet.

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Kuramathi Maldives announces private wellness programmes with Imron Zulfikar

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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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Drink

Felice Capasso brings award-winning mixology to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli this February

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The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort will host World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025, Felice Capasso, for an exclusive Tastemaker Series collaboration from 4–5 February. The partnership further strengthens the resort’s position as a destination for discerning travellers seeking craftsmanship, cultural depth, and refined experiences.

Located on a private island in the Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives has established a contemporary interpretation of island glamour. Its signature villas include some of the most coveted accommodations in the Indian Ocean, notably the John Jacob Astor Estate—one of the Maldives’ largest overwater residences—and the tranquil, beachfront Caroline Astor Estate. Each estate offers generous living spaces, expansive pools, and panoramic views, reflecting the resort’s dedication to elevated, residential-style luxury.

Within this sophisticated environment, The Whale Bar—an iconic overwater structure—will serve as the setting for Capasso’s arrival. As evening falls, the venue will adopt a vibrant Latin-inspired ambience, where guests will enjoy family-style small plates, bespoke cocktails, and rare vintages on tap while the sunset illuminates the lagoon. In this atmospheric setting, Capasso will unveil an exclusive cocktail menu for his bar takeover, blending classical technique with modern creativity.

On the following day, the resort will host an intimate Masterclass led by Capasso, centred on rum. The session will explore the spirit’s history, its regional expressions, and the narrative approach that distinguishes exceptional mixology. His expertise—rooted in precision, intuition, and storytelling—offers guests a rare opportunity to engage with a leading figure in the global bar industry.

This collaboration forms part of the resort’s ongoing Tastemaker Series, which brings influential creators and innovators to the island. By welcoming talents such as Felice Capasso, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort continues to craft immersive, evocative experiences that embody the distinctive spirit of St. Regis.

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Sun Siyam Olhuveli unveils Milano, Olive Bar and Crust & Flame on Dream Island

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Sun Siyam Olhuveli has introduced three new dining and social venues on its Dream Island — Milano, Olive Bar, and Crust & Flame — each conceptualised by the award-winning Studio Sixty7. Together, the venues bring a contemporary expression of coastal European style to the Maldives, blending refined design, effortless island living, and a sense of community that positions Dream Island as the resort’s newest lifestyle and entertainment hub.

Milano – An Italian Soul with a Front-Row Kitchen

Milano celebrates the warmth and generosity of Italian dining, presented through a coastal aesthetic that feels both relaxed and refined. The open kitchen serves as the heart of the restaurant, where guests can watch chefs craft handmade pasta, simmer traditional sauces, and prepare wood-fired dishes. The experience is intimate and engaging, reflecting the sincerity of Italian cooking.

Studio Sixty7 designed the space with an olive-green palette, arched features, textured off-white plaster, linen drapery, and sculpted timber furnishings. Deep green crittall-style glazing adds a quiet elegance, while patterned floors create a gentle visual rhythm. As evening falls, woven pendant lights warm the room, making Milano ideal for leisurely lunches and romantic dinners. Every design detail balances Italian flair with Maldivian tranquillity.

Olive Bar – The New Entertainment Pulse

At the centre of Dream Island’s social energy, Olive Bar offers a refreshed take on family entertainment, hosting nightly performances from acoustic musicians and cultural acts to lively DJ sets. By day, it provides a relaxed lounge environment; by night, it transforms into a vibrant social hub.

The bar’s design embraces coastal openness, featuring timber shutters, adaptable lounge seating, abundant greenery, and natural textures that reflect Studio Sixty7’s craftsmanship-driven approach. Gentle ambient lighting completes the atmosphere, creating a welcoming setting for conversation, laughter, and shared experiences.

Crust & Flame – Casual, Beachside, and Comfort-Driven

Crust & Flame offers a relaxed beachside dining experience centred around artisanal brick-oven pizzas and contemporary light dishes. Its striking emerald-and-sage terrazzo pizza oven serves as the visual anchor of the venue, glowing subtly in natural light as chefs prepare fresh creations throughout the day.

Muted olive and white tiles, moss-toned upholstery, and dark timber seating create a coastal trattoria feel, while maintaining a distinctly Maldivian beach ambience — toes in the sand, ocean breeze drifting through the space, and a focus on simple, well-crafted comfort food.

Reflecting on the creative direction, Lee McNichol, Co-founder of Studio Sixty7, noted that the aim was to craft spaces that feel like a gentle exhale — warm, textured, softly lit, and subtly inspired by European coastal landscapes. Co-founder Jose Rivero added that the intention was to build venues that feel lived-in and soulful, where guests naturally settle into the experience rather than simply dine or watch a performance.

Hassan Adil, General Manager of Sun Siyam Olhuveli, commented: “Our vision for Dream Island was to create a place where guests immediately feel the rhythm of island life — relaxed, social, and full of positive energy. Milano, Olive Bar, and Crust & Flame each offer something distinct, yet together they form a cohesive atmosphere that encourages connection and enjoyment. It is Olhuveli at its most effortless and playful.”

With the launch of these venues, Dream Island evolves into a dynamic culinary and social destination where design, flavour, and ambience come together seamlessly. This development reflects Sun Siyam Olhuveli’s continued journey toward contemporary lifestyle hospitality, grounded in the warmth and authenticity of Maldivian service.

Sun Siyam Olhuveli now offers more than twenty restaurants and bars across its islands, ensuring an ever-diverse dining landscape shaped by creativity, global influence, and the joy of island living.

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