News
Dusit Thani Maldives celebrates grand opening
Maldives Promotion House – Dusit International has yesterday celebrated the grand opening of its milestone property, the Dusit Thani Maldives in a ceremony that saw President Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik and First Lady, Madam Illham Hussain, as guests of honour. Also in attendance was the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Ahmed Adeeb Abdul Ghafoor.
VIP guests representing the Dusit group included Chanin Donavanik, CEO of Dusit International and Chatri Sophonpanich, Chairman of Dusit Thani Public Company limited and the DMS board of directors.
The now fully operational Dusit Thani Maldives is yet another jewel in the Dusit International crown and while it looks to be hugely successful as a luxurious resort hotel that has already enjoyed an unprecedented reception as an eco conscious travel experience par excellence, it is also recognized by its host country as making a significant contribution to the local economy.
In this regard, the President Dr. Waheed said, “The Republic of the Maldives will not only benefit from economic gains and job creation as a result of Dusit International’s investment, but equally, if not more important, is the legacy afforded by the education opportunities that Dusit International will introduce to this country.”
The President continued, “the group has created a blue print to develop their well established and highly successful hospitality college in the Maldives.”
President Dr. Waheed said that this is a major milestone for the tourism industry and it is imperative in order to continue to maintain high standards and opportunities for all Maldivians. He noted that the tourism today is the single largest contributor to the national economy, representing some 30% of our GDP. He added that the strengthening of our tourism education infrastructure will allow us to ensure that the Maldives remains the leading global luxury tourism destination.
Furthermore, the President highlighted that the tourism sector has never been more buoyant – and the government is on target to achieve our goal of our One Millionth tourist arrival this year.
Indeed the number of visitors from Southeast Asia alone – particularly Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia – increased by almost 14% in the first half of 2012. We look forward to this trend continuing with the opening of Dusit Thani Maldives, a well-known and respected Asian brand with deep Thai roots,” he said.
Chanin Donavanik, CEO of Dusit International said, “It has always been the dream of Dusit International to establish a hotel property on this beautiful island destination. To see the dream transformed into the reality of the Dusit Thani Maldives is a source of tremendous pride and satisfaction for the entire Dusit group.”
The CEO said that Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui opened the Dusit Thani College in 1993 and confirmed that the Dusit Thani College is in the process of being established in the Maldives.
“We have much confidence in the Maldives. We believe that our investment will be greatly beneficial and look forward to long-term success as full business partners in the tourism industry,” he said.
Located on Mudhdhoo Island in Baa Atoll, Dusit Thani Maldives is 35 minutes by seaplane from the capital Malé and only 10 minutes by speed boat from the new domestic airport opening soon. It is also just a short boat ride away from Hanifaru Huraa, the UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve.
General Manager, Desmond Hatton said, “It is a natural environment that has inspired and motivated the design of Dusit Thani Maldives to ensure that it co-exists in harmony with the magnificent Maldivian biodiversity. We are also doing everything we can here to set standards for sustainability. Our entire operation is geared toward achieving a carbon-neutral programme using pioneering, green energy solutions.”
The fully operational Dusit Thani Maldives comprises a luxurious collection of exclusive guest villas and residences that feature a host of amenities including a complimentary Wi-Fi internet connection, 46” LED IPTV with satellite channels, BOSE surround sound systems, wine chiller and Nespresso coffee. The resort also features three restaurants, two bars and Dusit’s signature Devarana Spa, uniquely elevated above a grove of coconut palm trees.
News
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Dhawa Ihuru honour women with curated experiences
This International Women’s Day, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru celebrate the important women in our lives through meaningful island experiences inspired by connection with self, nature and our loved ones.
The celebration begins beneath the surface of the sea with a Women’s Snorkelling Session, bringing guests from both resorts together for a guided exploration of the house reef. Guided by the resorts’ Marine Lab, explore vibrant coral gardens and observe marine life flourishing within one of the Maldives’ most carefully preserved reefs – a reflection of Banyan Group’s long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship since the island first welcomed guests more than three decades ago.
Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru: A Day of Meaningful Connection to the Nature and Wellbeing
In the afternoon, Saffron presents a Women’s Day Cooking Class, where fragrant herbs and vibrant spices come together in a hands-on journey through authentic Thai flavours.
As the golden sunset colours the sky, a beachfront yoga session invites a moment of stillness. Guided by breath and gentle movement, the rhythm of the waves deepens your connection with nature and the beauty of being fully present.

In the evening, Sangu Garden, the resort’s beachfront restaurant, presents a Special Women’s Day Buffet Night, where live BBQ stations showcase freshly grilled seafood and international flavours beneath the evening sky. Ocean breezes, cosy ambience and the aroma of the grill create a warm tropical setting, while each female guest is welcomed with a special surprise gift during the evening.

Dhawa Ihuru: Vibrant Island Flavours
Across the lagoon, Dhawa Ihuru brings its lively island energy to the occasion with experiences designed for fun and connection.
Later in the day, after the snorkel safari to the house reef, savour a Women’s Day Special BBQ Lunch at Riveli Restaurant, where vibrant island flavours and international favourites come together in a lively beachfront setting.
In the afternoon, a Sri Lankan Cooking Class invites guests to discover bold spices and traditional techniques in a lively hands-on culinary experience.

Together, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru offer a meaningful way to celebrate the women who inspire us, through moments of exploring wellness, discovery and joyful connection surrounded by the natural beauty of the Maldives.
News
Fushifaru Maldives celebrates Women’s Day with art, community and ocean conservation focus
Fushifaru Maldives is marking International Women’s Day 2026 with a series of activities under the theme “Waves of Kindness – #GivetoGain,” celebrating empowerment, community and ocean conservation.
The programme reflects the resort’s message of being “Empowered by Kindness, Inspired by the Ocean,” bringing together guests and team members through art, appreciation and shared experiences.
As part of the celebrations, the resort will welcome artist Rachel Brooks, who will host a live art workshop on 7 March. During the session, Brooks will create a painting inspired by marine life, drawing attention to the colours and forms found beneath the ocean’s surface.
Her work highlights the connection between creativity and environmental awareness, emphasising the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. The workshop will also serve as an opportunity for guests and residents to engage with the artist and learn about the inspiration behind her work.
The celebrations will continue on 8 March with activities marking International Women’s Day alongside the resort’s residents and guests. The theme #GivetoGain focuses on mutual support, the creation of opportunities, and the empowerment of women through collaboration and shared encouragement.

In the evening, Fushifaru Maldives will host a Women’s Day Cocktail Party, where gentlemen will present roses to women on the island, including guests and team members. The gesture is intended as a sign of appreciation and respect.
The celebration will continue with a DJ evening, providing a setting for guests and staff to gather and mark the occasion together.
According to the resort, the event is also an opportunity to recognise the contribution of women within the Fushifaru community. Female guests, residents and team members from different backgrounds and cultures will be acknowledged as part of the celebrations.
The resort said the initiative reflects the diversity and individuality of the women who form part of the Fushifaru Maldives community, while reinforcing the broader message of kindness, empowerment and environmental awareness associated with this year’s International Women’s Day.
Drink
German winemaker Patrick Jacklin to host exclusive tasting at Constance Moofushi
Constance Moofushi Maldives is set to welcome Patrick Jacklin of Weingut Heitlinger, Germany, for an exclusive wine tasting experience on 9th March from 06:00pm to 07:30pm. Set on a sunset sandbank, this unique experience will feature a curated selection of biodynamic wines, paired with refined canapés in an unforgettable Indian Ocean setting. During his visit, Patrick Jacklin will also conduct a dedicated masterclass with the resort’s sommeliers, offering an opportunity to further expand their knowledge and understanding of biodynamic wines and viticulture.
At Constance Hotels & Resorts, wine is an integral part of the guest experience, shaped by passionate sommeliers and a long-standing culture of discovery. At Constance Moofushi, this dedication is reflected in Alizée Restaurant being recognized by The World of Fine Wine for its Best All-Inclusive Wine List, highlighting the resort’s carefully curated selection and pairing philosophy. This intimate tasting continues that spirit, celebrating terroir, craftsmanship, and meaningful encounters between guests and winemakers.
Raised in the Kraichgau region of Baden, Patrick Jacklin comes from a family deeply rooted in winemaking. Alongside his brother Philip, he represents the next generation of the Weingut Heitlinger bringing fresh energy and vision to the estate.

Passionate about biodynamic viticulture Patrick plays an active role in shaping the estate’s style and guiding its evolution in both cellar and vineyard.
Located in Östringen‑Tiefenbach, Weingut Heitlinger, is recognised among Germany’s leading organic and biodynamic estates. The winery is also part of the VDP (Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter) Since 2012, Germany’s most respected association of top-quality wine estates — a distinction that reflects a shared commitment to origin, craft, and rigorous standards.
“This evening with Patrick Jacklin is a celebration of what we love most – exceptional wines, generous sharing, and the magic of a Maldivian sunset. We look forward to welcoming our guests for this intimate moment of discovery,” says Mevin Ramasamy, General Manager of Constance Moofushi.
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