Awards
Sun Siyam earns prestigious design accolades at International Property Awards
Sun Siyam, the Maldivian-owned hospitality group operating six resorts across the Maldives and Sri Lanka, has been recognised with two awards at the International Property Awards Asia Pacific, one of the world’s most respected benchmarks for excellence in architecture, design, and real estate. The awards were presented in Bangkok, Thailand, and celebrate outstanding design achievement across two of the group’s most distinguished properties: Sun Siyam Pasikudah in Sri Lanka and Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in the Maldives.
The International Property Awards are judged by an independent panel of more than 80 industry experts and are widely regarded as a gold standard for design and architectural achievement across the Asia Pacific region. Sun Siyam received the Award for Hotel Interiors — Sri Lanka for Sun Siyam Pasikudah, and the Award for Hotel Suite Interiors — Maldives for the Deluxe Water Villa at Sun Siyam Iru Fushi. Both projects were led by London-based Studio Sixty7, founded by Jose Rivero and Lee McNichol.
Both award-winning projects were realised through a long-standing creative partnership between Sun Siyam and Studio Sixty7, a London-based interior design practice whose work is distinguished by its sensitivity to context, materiality, and the spirit of a place. Both Jose and Lee guided the design transformation of two very different island environments, the Sri Lankan coastline and the Maldivian lagoon, while maintaining a coherent philosophy: that luxury should feel earned by the land it sits in, not imposed upon it.
“We are so proud to have received two awards at the International Property Awards Asia Pacific, for Sun Siyam Pasikudah in Sri Lanka and Sun Siyam Iru Fushi in the Maldives. These projects mean a great deal to us. The work we have done with Sun Siyam has pushed us to design spaces that are truly rooted in their environment — not just aesthetically, but in the way they feel and the way guests experience them. To have that recognised is something we are really proud of as a studio. We could not have done it without the Sun Siyam team. They have trusted us with their vision, given us the space to do our best work, and shared our belief that luxury and a deep respect for place are not competing ideas. We are deeply grateful for that partnership, and proud to be part of what they are building, “ said Jose Rivero and Lee McNichol, Co-founders, Studio Sixty7.
Set on a private island in Noonu Atoll where Maldivian magic meets its most elevated expression, Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is the flagship of Sun Siyam’s Luxury Collection, a five-star sanctuary where considered design, curated calm, and experiences crafted entirely to your taste come together effortlessly. Generous enough for families, intimate enough for romance, and restorative enough for those who need it most, the resort offers 15 dining and bar venues, an award-winning spa with over 165 treatments, and the largest diving centre in the region. The International Property Award for Hotel Suite Interiors recognises the resort’s newly reimagined Deluxe Water Villa, the first chapter of a resort wide design transformation under the creative direction of Studio Sixty7, and a fitting reflection of a place where every detail is an invitation to stay a little longer.
The new aesthetic introduces muted tones, natural textures, and softly sculpted forms — gently imperfect plastered walls, tactile finishes, and breathable linen creating an atmosphere that is relaxed yet unmistakably elevated. Each villa is conceived as a frame for the ocean: open-plan, serene, with a bathroom offering direct lagoon views. Private decks with suspended hammocks and soft green accents invite stillness, while Horizon Water Villas add a 22 sqm private pool and sunken seating spaces made for sunrise rituals and slow Maldivian afternoons.
“Every element has been chosen to feel grounded and sensorial, inviting guests into a deep sense of calm,” said Lee McNichol and Jose Rivero.
Nestled along a pristine stretch of coastline on Sri Lanka’s northeast shore, Sun Siyam Pasikudah is a boutique retreat of 34 contemporary pavilions and part of the Privé Collection under The House of Siyam. The resort underwent an extensive transformation and reopened in November 2023, reimagined from the ground up with new colour concepts, fittings, furnishings, and offerings, while preserving the original structure that gives the property its architectural character.
The International Property Award for Hotel Interiors — Sri Lanka reflects the depth and integrity of that renovation. Central to the design was a commitment to local craftsmanship: the transformation was realised in close collaboration with Sri Lankan artisans and community woodworkers, with bespoke furniture, handmade chandeliers, and joinery items created locally and woven throughout the interiors. The result is a property that feels genuinely rooted in its surroundings , not imported but grown from the island itself. Nearly 90 percent of the resort’s staff come from surrounding communities, a figure that speaks to a philosophy that extends well beyond interior design and into the daily life of the property.
Awards
JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La recognised for business and urban hospitality at SATA 2026
JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La is celebrating a double win at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2026, earning two prestigious accolades: Leading Business Hotel and Leading City Hotel (40 Rooms and Above).
The dual recognition marks a significant milestone in the hotel’s journey, reaffirming its position as a distinguished hospitality destination in the heart of Malé. It also reflects the hotel’s unwavering dedication to delivering exceptional guest experiences, thoughtfully curated services, and the warmth of Shangri-La’s Asian hospitality.
Situated in the vibrant capital of the Maldives, JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La offers a welcoming urban retreat where contemporary comfort meets genuine hospitality. Catering to the diverse needs of business and leisure travellers, the hotel brings together stylish accommodation, versatile meeting facilities, and distinctive dining experiences, creating an inviting space for guests to connect, unwind, and discover the city.
The Leading Business Hotel accolade recognises the hotel’s commitment to providing a seamless and rewarding experience for today’s business travellers, combining convenience, efficiency, and attentive service. Meanwhile, the Leading City Hotel (40 Rooms and Above) award celebrates its continued excellence in urban hospitality, where thoughtful touches and personalised experiences transform everyday stays into memorable moments.
At the heart of these achievements are the people who bring the JEN experience to life. Guided by Shangri-La’s purpose to deliver the art of joy and Asian hosting, the dedicated team at JEN Maldives continues to create an environment where guests feel genuinely welcomed, valued, and cared for. Their passion, teamwork, and commitment to service excellence remain the driving force behind the hotel’s success.
JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La extends its heartfelt appreciation to its valued guests, trusted business partners, and dedicated colleagues whose continued confidence, loyalty, and support have made these accomplishments possible.
As the hotel celebrates this proud milestone, it looks ahead with renewed inspiration to further elevate its offerings, strengthen meaningful connections, and continue creating memorable experiences. Rooted in the timeless values of Asian hospitality and the spirit of Shangri-La, JEN Maldives Malé by Shangri-La remains committed to delivering hospitality that goes beyond expectations, ensuring every guest feels a true sense of belonging.
Awards
Fushifaru Maldives recognised among Indian Ocean’s best resorts in Condé Nast Traveler Awards
Some places are remembered for their beauty. Others are remembered for how they make you feel. At Fushifaru Maldives, the two are inseparable
Set in the heart of the Lhaviyani Atoll, Fushifaru Maldives has been recognised as the No. 4 Resort in the Indian Ocean by the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards. The recognition is a meaningful milestone for the award-winning boutique resort, reflecting the experiences, emotions and lasting memories that guests carry home long after their island escape comes to an end.
“Being recognised as the No. 4 resort in the Indian Ocean by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards is a truly proud and meaningful moment for all of us at Fushifaru. This achievement belongs first and foremost to our guests, whose trust and support inspire us, and to our dedicated team, whose passion, genuine hospitality and countless thoughtful gestures bring the spirit of Fushifaru to life every day. At Fushifaru, we believe that what makes a place truly special goes beyond its natural beauty. It is the connections we create, the kindness we share and the memories that stay with our guests long after they leave our shores. This recognition inspires us to continue creating meaningful experiences that celebrate our island, our Maldivian heritage and the people who make it feel like home,” said Ahmed Siaar, Cluster General Manager, BeKind Hotels & Resorts.
For Fushifaru, this achievement is more than a place on a list. It is a celebration of the people, the natural environment and the distinctive sense of place that make the island what it is.
Every island has a story. Fushifaru is home to the largest natural sandbank in Lhaviyani Atoll, a breathtaking stretch of white sand that emerges from the sea like a pathway into the Indian Ocean. Just a short boat ride away, the sandbank offers a rare opportunity to experience the Maldives in its most elemental form, with nothing but endless horizons, gentle sea breezes and the feeling of being somewhere wonderfully removed from the everyday world.
Yet the island’s beauty extends far beyond its shores. Located within a Marine Protected Area, Fushifaru is surrounded by a thriving underwater world where marine life flourishes beneath the surface. Just a short boat ride away lies Fushifaru Thila, one of the area’s remarkable underwater treasures and a renowned manta ray cleaning station. From graceful manta rays and sea turtles to dolphins, reef sharks and vibrant coral ecosystems, each encounter offers a reminder that the ocean is not simply the setting for an island holiday, but the very heart of its identity.
For diving enthusiasts, the surrounding waters open the door to extraordinary underwater adventures, with opportunities to discover diverse marine life and captivating reef formations. Meanwhile, snorkelling offers a more intimate way to explore the colourful world beneath the surface, from the resort’s house reef to the surrounding turquoise lagoon. Here, every journey beneath the waves reveals another chapter of the island’s story, inviting guests to experience the Maldives not only through its breathtaking beauty above the water, but also through the remarkable life that thrives below.
The resort’s distinctive underwater playground brings a sense of wonder to the water, creating a playful and memorable expression of island living. Meanwhile, its modern Maldivian design draws inspiration from the destination’s cultural heritage, blending contemporary comfort with the natural textures, colours and character of the Maldives.
At Fushifaru, authentic Maldivian hospitality is expressed through thoughtful gestures, heartfelt welcomes and the little moments of kindness that make each stay unique. From sharing local traditions and cultural heritage to helping guests discover hidden corners of the island, the team creates experiences that feel less like a planned itinerary and more like a collection of meaningful memories.
The Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards recognition is therefore a tribute to everyone who contributes to that experience — the team working behind the scenes, those welcoming guests each day, and the people who make the island feel like a home away from home.
Awards
Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu celebrates best GM award, eco-friendly resort at SATA 2026
Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, part of Coco Collection, celebrates two prestigious accolades at the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) 2026. General Manager Siraj Ali Waseem was named South Asia’s Best GM – Maldives, while the resort was recognised as Silver Winner for Leading Eco-Friendly Resort, reflecting its commitment to exceptional hospitality, inspiring leadership and environmental responsibility.
The individual award marks a significant milestone for Siraj, whose leadership places people at the heart of the guest experience. Overseeing daily operations, he fosters a supportive workplace, encourages professional growth and cultivates a culture of personalised service. His success is also a testament to the colleagues whose warmth and genuine care reflect the essence of Maldivian hospitality.

“I am honoured to receive this recognition, which I share with our entire team at Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu and Coco Collection,” said Siraj Ali Waseem, General Manager. “Our colleagues are the foundation of everything we do, and their passion and dedication make this possible. Being recognised for our sustainability initiatives is equally rewarding, as we continue to care for our island and create lasting memories for those who visit.”

Situated within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Baa Atoll, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu integrates environmental care into everyday island life through marine conservation, mindful operations and fresh produce cultivated at Coco Farm for its culinary offerings.
A cornerstone of these initiatives is its partnership with the Olive Ridley Project, celebrating a decade of sea turtle conservation in 2026. The island is home to the Marine Turtle Rescue Centre, providing specialist treatment and rehabilitation for injured turtles. Educational activities and conservation programmes also offer visitors opportunities to better understand marine ecosystems and their protection.

Established in 2016, the South Asian Travel Awards (SATA) recognise excellence across the region’s tourism and hospitality industry. Celebrating its 10th edition this year, the awards bring together leading hotels, resorts, travel organisations and industry professionals from six countries: the Maldives, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Bhutan and Bangladesh. The annual event honours outstanding achievements in service, leadership, innovation and sustainable tourism, while promoting collaboration across South Asia.
Discover the natural beauty and warm Maldivian hospitality of Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu with the resort’s Sun and Fun offer. For more information, visit www.cococollection.com or contact reservations@cococollection.com.
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