News
Dusit Thani Maldives achieves EarthCheck certification
Maldives Promotion House – The environmental performance of Dusit Thani Maldives has been recognised by EarthCheck; the travel and tourism industry’s leading environmental management, benchmarking and certification company.
EarthCheck operates the world’s most scientifically rigorous benchmarking program and measures key indicators such as energy and water consumption, total waste production, and community commitment to provide a holistic picture of operational performance.
Benchmarking involves submitting a year’s worth of operational data to EarthCheck, and this is in turn compared with industry data collected from more than 1200 organizations in over 65 countries. By taking such a scientific approach to measuring the effectiveness of their sustainability practices, Dusit Thani Maldives has been able to identify where the resort was out-performing others and where room for improvement remained.
“Our company constantly seeks ways to contribute to the community and to ensure that we are providing the most sustainable products we can deliver, “says Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Dusit International, Mr Chanin Donavanik. “Dusit’s search for an agency who could quantify the results of our endeavours led the hotel group to EarthCheck, a credible, internationally respected certification programme.”
“We are proud that Dusit Thani Maldives has achieved this Benchmarking Level,” Mr. Donavanik continues, “And will ensure that our focus remains strong to continue achieving greater heights of sustainabiltiy and responsible tourism.”
With the goal of living in harmony with the local environment, Dusit Thani Maldives is focused on green energy solutions. Biodegradables are used for composting, fertilising and landscaping while staff do their part by cultivating a herb and vegetable garden lowering the carbon footprint and reducing the reliance on imported produce. To ensure minimal impact on the environment, the resort invested in state of the art engineering for optimum energy and resource efficiency. Its approach includes solar thermal heating and heat recovery pumps, all metered for power consumption in guest rooms and public spaces. An on-site water-bottling factory produces still and sparkling mineralized water to reduce one-way plastics. Additionally the hotel laundry is heated by a diesel steam boiler using minimal electricity. LED lights also illuminate all guest areas at the property.
Dusit Thani Maldives rated at or above Best Practice levels for Energy Consumption, Greenhouse Gas Emissions (Scope 1 and Scope 2), Waste Sent to Landfill, Community Commitment and Cleaning Products Rating.
For economies reliant on travel and tourism, EarthCheck’s benchmarking data provides the only historical record of the global environmental impacts of the industry over the past 12 years. More importantly, it rates the effectiveness of industry efforts to reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions (GHG) and conserve natural resources at a project-by-project level.
“I am delighted that Dusit Thani Maldives have Benchmarked their operations,” stated Stewart Moore, EarthCheck CEO. “They have recognized the need to be responsible for the impacts of their operations and transparent in their environmental statements.”
By undertaking benchmarking with EarthCheck, Dusit Thani Maldives has joined other industry leaders who have demonstrated a willingness to take meaningful steps towards resolving some of the very real issues that face the planet.
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.
-
Action1 week agoCanareef Resort highlights sea turtle conservation on World Turtle Day
-
Culture1 week agoCocoon Maldives brings Maldivian culture to life for Eid Al-Adha Celebrations
-
Culture1 week agoJoy Island Maldives to host Eid Al-Adha festivities inspired by local traditions
-
Action1 week agoW Maldives brings fast-growing sport of padel to the island
-
News1 week agoAnantara marks 25 years with global campaign celebrating experiential luxury
-
Action1 week agoInterContinental Maldives celebrates World Oceans Day with conservation-focused experiences
-
News1 week agoELE|NA named finalist in luxury and sustainability categories at global wellness awards
-
Cooking1 week agoKandima Maldives celebrates Eid with Maldivian culture, dining and entertainment