News
SriLankan Airlines to Open a Training Center in Maldives
Maldives Promotion House – The International Aviation Academy (IAA) the training arm of SriLankan Airlines has announced the launch of its first overseas operations in Maldives. The franchised training agreement between IAA and Orient Express Pvt Limited, Maldives will make new avenues in the Aviation Industry in terms of building human capital for the future.
This will be the first International Air Transportation Association (IATA) Authorized Training Centre (ATC) in the Maldives.
As an Authorized Training Centre for IATA, IAA has been in the field of aviation education for the past decade actively engaged in providing education solutions.
Recognition as one of the Top10 training partners in South Asia by IATA in 2012 further validates IAAs presence in Aviation Education in the South Asian Region. Further IAA is the first in South Asia to be recognized by IATA as a Regional Training Facility for international aviation training by awarding the Franchised Training Partner in the Maldives.
Furthermore IAA is the sole training provider for Travel Agents Association of SriLankan (TAASL). IAA is responsible for catering all training needs of SriLankan Airlines, whilst expanding its market for external training both locally and internationally. Orient Express Pvt Limited, established in 1990’s is a well experienced corporate in the service sector in Maldives. It is one of the leading goods and service providers having strong ties with globally renowned partners. As a new extension Orient Express Pvt Limited join hands with IAA to provide education solutions to the Maldives.
Organizing of the infrastructure facility and marketing of the training programmes in Maldives would be the key areas to be looked after by Orient Express Pvt Limited. General Manager Orient Express said “This is a great opportunity for the Maldives, joining hands with a reliable brand to establish aviation education, which will immensely benefit us.”
The IATA ATC will bring many advantages. Ability to acquire world class training for competitive price, from a qualified and well experienced panel of instructors within Maldives would be a golden opportunity. Successful completion will equip the candidates with IATA Certification. This will open new horizons with a wide range of job opportunities across the globe. High performers will also have the opportunity for On the Job Training.
As defined by the Manager IAA, this partnership with the best corporate house in the Maldives, further supported by the Maldivian government is a solid beginning. The IAA Branch will deliver the same level of high quality aviation education to Maldivian youth to enter a most sought after lucrative aviation industry, producing qualified native aviation professionals
Pradeepa Kekulawala, Head of Human Resources, SriLankan Airlines said, “Being one of the IATA Top 10 Aviation Academies of South Asia, a recognition of our excellence and effectiveness in Aviation training, we decided to offer our programmes to the regional markets and our first choice was Maldives, considering our long term relationship between the countries and the lucrative Travel & Tourism opportunities.
SriLankan Airlines is a household brand in the Maldives with a history of more than two decades and to achieve the next level, we decided to have a branch in Maldives.
IAA have an exclusive status from IATA to offer IATA training programmes at the training centre. This itself proves the quality of training offered along with Oriental Express, franchisee and local partner. IAA guarantee usual highest quality training to the market, delivered by professional trainers of SriLankan Airlines and to provide outstanding on the job trainings and internship opportunities.
Kuredhivaru Resort & Spa has announced a special Easter collaboration with one of the most celebrated Maldivian watercolor artists, Shimha Shakeeb, taking place from 4 to 7 April. The exclusive residency will introduce guests to the rich cultural narratives of the Maldives through art, creativity, and immersive experiences.
Shimha Shakeeb is known for her beautiful watercolor paintings that capture the landscapes, architecture, and traditions of the Maldives. She has exhibited her work at Dubai Expo 2020, Crossroads Maldives, and the National Art Gallery in Malé, and has worked with well-known institutions and resorts, including The Ritz-Carlton Maldives.
During the Easter residency, guests can join live painting sessions, interactive workshops, and kids’ art classes. For those looking for a more personal experience, private art sessions will also be available, allowing guests to work closely with Shimha to create their own unique pieces under her guidance. These activities let visitors of all ages explore their creativity and connect with Maldivian heritage in a hands-on way.
This collaboration reflects Kuredhivaru Resort & Spa’s commitment to creating immersive art experiences that inspire guests while promoting sustainable and mindful practices. Through workshops, live demonstrations, and private sessions, visitors are encouraged to explore their creativity in harmony with the island’s natural surroundings. Set against the stunning Indian Ocean, the Easter art residency offers a meaningful and inspiring holiday where guests can connect with both art and nature, celebrate creativity, and take-home memories and skills that extend beyond their stay.
For any reservations or inquiries, guests are encouraged to contact the resort at Resort.Kuredhivaru.Reservations@ennismore.com or +960 656 3000.
This Easter, Meyyafushi Maldives takes guests on a journey filled with sunshine, togetherness and memorable moments. With a fun-filled Easter Programme, from easter egg painting to bowling tournaments, Meyyafushi encourages families and couples to connect within and beyond.
At the heart of Meyyafushi’s appeal is its collection of distinctive experiences designed to elevate the Maldives experience. Guests can enjoy one of the resort’s most iconic attractions – the world’s first fixed overwater padel tennis court, where sport meets spectacular ocean views. Culinary enthusiasts can discover unforgettable dining moments across the island’s diverse restaurants, including the spectacular Bubble underwater restaurant. For those seeking relaxation, Meyyafushi’s wellness and recreation facilities provide endless ways to unwind and reconnect. From its serene overwater Veyoge Spa and state-of-the-art fitness centre to tennis, watersports and diving adventures, every element of the resort is designed to inspire discovery and wellbeing.
Families travelling during Easter can also enjoy a special programme thoughtfully curated for younger guests and families alike. Creative workshops such as bunny mask making and Easter egg painting, island games including Kids Olympics and scavenger hunts, and special celebratory moments like Easter happy hour and a festive Easter dinner bring a playful spirit to the island throughout the holiday period.
Beyond the festivities, Meyyafushi’s spacious villas, calm lagoons and warm Maldivian hospitality make it an ideal destination for families looking to slow down, reconnect and experience the magic of the Maldives together. Every experience at Meyyafushi is designed to create memorable moments that last long after the holiday ends.
For more information, please contact reservations@meyyafushi.com or visit www.meyyafushi.com.
Amilla Maldives is inviting guests to mark Eid al-Fitr with a series of island celebrations under the theme Eid in Harmony, bringing together cultural experiences, family activities and festive dining.
Eid, which marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, is widely celebrated across the Maldives as a time of gathering and shared moments. At Amilla Maldives, the occasion will be observed through a programme of relaxed events designed to reflect the atmosphere of island life and community.
During the celebrations, guests will be able to take part in cultural performances, family-friendly activities and island gatherings highlighting Maldivian traditions. These will include performances of Bodu Beru, interactive island games and creative workshops that offer visitors insight into local culture.
The resort will also present a range of culinary experiences for the occasion. Chefs will prepare festive dishes inspired by both regional and Maldivian flavours, with dining experiences ranging from relaxed daytime offerings by the beach to evening dinners served under the stars.
Set within the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the celebrations are designed to offer guests an opportunity to experience the traditions and atmosphere of Eid in a natural island setting.
Guests interested in the full programme of celebrations can access the resort’s Eid 2026 brochure online.
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