News
RAAYA by Atmosphere marks Earth Day with sustainability summit
In celebration of this year’s Earth Day, RAAYA by Atmosphere hosted a meaningful Earth Summit, bringing together managers from across all departments to reflect, reconnect, and commit to a more sustainable future.
The summit began with a symbolic moment of silence, as participants paused to feel the earth beneath them, an intentional act of grounding and appreciation for the natural environment they are privileged to inhabit. This reflective opening set the tone for a day dedicated to honouring nature and reinforcing a shared responsibility to protect it throughout the year.
Situated on a soil-rich island once renowned for its agricultural heritage, where organic cultivation continues to thrive, RAAYA by Atmosphere drew inspiration from its roots. The team revisited the resort’s development journey, highlighting its environmentally conscious approach: preserving 99% of the island’s natural forest while carefully relocating displaced flora to ensure continued growth elsewhere. Tribute was also paid to the island’s natural arches, which provide shade and cooling, and to the diverse birdlife that enriches its ecosystem.
Throughout the summit, department leaders shared both ongoing sustainability efforts and new initiatives for the year ahead, culminating in a series of collective commitments. A key highlight was the planting of 1,000 passionfruit seeds, an initiative aimed at strengthening the island’s agricultural output. Passionfruit was selected for its natural suitability to the Maldivian climate: it thrives under the tropical sun, its vines offer shade to surrounding plants, and the locally grown fruit is known for its sweet, citrusy flavour and high antioxidant content. Beyond consumption, the fruit’s peel can be repurposed as animal and bird feed, natural fertiliser, and for preservation uses.
Looking ahead, the resort plans to incorporate this harvest into its culinary offerings, providing guests with fresh, homegrown passionfruit and artisanal jams as part of a true farm-to-table experience.
The team also pledged to strengthen mindful operational practices, including minimising food waste and significantly reducing plastic use across all departments. Hands-on training sessions during the summit equipped managers with practical knowledge on enhancing soil fertility within their workspaces and living environments, fostering a culture of sustainability at every level of the organisation.
Further reinforcing its environmental commitment, RAAYA by Atmosphere has announced plans to advance its renewable energy strategy. With the solar plant location now finalised, the resort aims to achieve 80% solar energy adoption using advanced technology by next year, significantly reducing its carbon footprint and setting a strong benchmark for sustainable luxury in the Maldives.
United by a shared vision, the team at RAAYA by Atmosphere continues to lead by example, demonstrating that meaningful change begins at home and grows through collective action. Through this Earth Summit, the resort not only celebrated the planet but reaffirmed its commitment to protecting it for generations to come.
Niva Dhigali has unveiled its comprehensive festive programme for the upcoming December Festive Season, inviting guests to experience a blend of traditional holiday charm and vibrant island celebrations. The resort’s itinerary features a classic Christmas theme, exclusive culinary events, and a dynamic New Year’s Eve celebration headlined by Hungarian celebrity DJ Liliana Reagan, offering a memorable end-of-year escape in the Maldives.
The festivities commence on 21 December 2026 with a heart-warming Tree Lighting Ceremony on the beach, setting a classic Christmas tone against a tropical backdrop. This is closely followed by an elegant Starlight Beach Dinner, where guests can enjoy a thoughtfully crafted culinary experience beneath the Maldivian night sky. The holiday spirit continues to build towards Christmas Day, highlighted by the highly anticipated arrival of Santa Claus, bringing joy and festive magic to the resort’s youngest visitors.
Throughout the festive period, guests can rejuvenate with a daily selection of Festive Elixirs. These refreshing, health-forward blends are expertly crafted to capture the vibrant energy of the island and support wellness during the holiday indulgences. Families and active guests are also encouraged to participate in a variety of engaging events, including outdoor chess competitions and spirited beach Olympics.
The seasonal celebrations culminate in a spectacular New Year’s Eve event titled: Where Freedom Celebrates. The evening transitions smoothly from an abundant gala dinner to an electrifying beach party, led by celebrity DJ Liliana Reagan. Her energetic performance, paired with a spectacular fire ritual and midnight fireworks, ensures a vibrant and unforgettable welcome to the new year.
For more information or reservations email: reservations@nivadhigali.com or call +960 6586060.
JOALI BEING has concluded its Eid al-Adha celebrations, which took place from 25 to 31 May 2026, bringing together families, culture, culinary discovery and shared experiences through a curated programme inspired by generosity, togetherness and reflection.
A central feature of this year’s celebrations was an exclusive culinary residency by Saudi chef Nawal Alkhalawi, who joined the island from Jeddah to present a series of dining experiences inspired by contemporary Saudi cuisine, heritage and storytelling.Throughout the residency, Chef Nawal introduced guests to the flavours, traditions and rituals that shape Saudi family life, using food as a platform for cultural exchange and connection.
One of the highlights of the programme was Chef Nawal Alkhalawi’s Dinner, held on 29 May at MOJO. The family-style sharing experience drew inspiration from the hospitality and flavours of Saudi Arabia, featuring signature dishes such as Whipped Date Butter with charcoal bread and her “Jewels of the Red Sea” selection.
The dinner continued with slow-roast lamb shoulder served with curated shawarma accompaniments, before concluding with a contemporary dessert of white peach, apricot rose and coconut yoghurt. Guests were also served a Saudi date and cheese platter showcasing regional flavours.
The following day, families gathered at the Culinary Learning Centre for Chef Nawal Alkhalawi’s Family Cooking Class. Designed as a hands-on experience for guests of different generations, the class explored the culinary meeting point between the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.
Participants prepared Spiced Prawn Tartare with Lime and Black Lime Aioli in Tapioca-Wild Rice, reflecting the connections between the two regions through ingredients, techniques and shared coastal influences.
In addition to the residency, JOALI BEING’s Eid programme featured a range of family-focused culinary and lifestyle experiences. These included energy bar making, waffle and pizza workshops, afternoon tea rituals, chocolate masterclasses, destination dining experiences and the Eid Sunset Soirée, where guests gathered on FLOW Beach for a golden-hour celebration with music and ocean views.
Other experiences during the week included private villa dining, breakfasts at the Turtle Tree House and a special Eid edition of the Indian Ocean Dinner, offering families and loved ones opportunities to mark the occasion in different settings across the island.
JOALI BEING said the celebrations reflected its commitment to creating spaces where guests can reconnect with themselves and one another while embracing the island’s philosophy of the Joy of Well-Living.
Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives has introduced Sol & Sea.
Perched elegantly above the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean, Sol & Sea is an exclusive overwater dining destination at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, Maldives, offering an intimate culinary journey inspired by the rich coastal traditions of India.
Thoughtfully designed for only 16 guests, this refined dining experience combines uninterrupted sunset views, bespoke service, and the soulful flavours of India’s coastline in a setting defined by understated luxury and island serenity.
At Sol & Sea, the art of the traditional Indian coastal thali is elevated through sophisticated presentation and carefully curated regional flavours. Drawing inspiration from the coastal kitchens of Indian Western Coastline each menu celebrates the richness of Indian spices, the freshness of ocean harvests, and the depth of authentic culinary heritage.
As twilight settles over the lagoon and the horizon glows in hues of gold and amber, guests are invited to savour an immersive dining experience surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Maldives. Every detail — from the gentle sea breeze and candlelit ambience to the thoughtfully paired flavours — has been designed to create moments of connection, indulgence, and lasting memory.
Elegant, intimate, and destination-led, Sol & Sea offers a distinctive expression of luxury dining where the warmth of Indian hospitality meets the timeless beauty of the ocean.
Experience highlights:
- Exclusive 16-seater overwater dining venue
- Signature Indian Coastal Thali experience (Vegetarian & Non-Vegetarian option)
- Curated sunset dining atmosphere
- Personalised and intimate guest experience
- Ideal for couples, honeymooners, and celebratory occasions
- Elevated luxury dining concept unique to the Maldives
As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean and the evening unfolds beneath the stars, Sol & Sea invites guests to discover a soulful expression of coastal India surrounded by the serenity of the Maldives.
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