Featured
Qatar Airways to give 100k free tickets to frontline healthcare workers

Qatar Airways is to give away 100,000 free tickets to frontline healthcare professionals to say thank you for their heroic work looking after people during the current coronavirus pandemic.
By maintaining 24/7 operations in recent months, including the provision of over 100 charter flights, Qatar Airways’ mission to repatriate over one million people has received widespread praise and thanks from passengers and governments as the foremost airline taking people home.
Given the airline’s work at the frontline of global efforts to repatriate stranded passengers, it now seeks to recognise and reward the world’s frontline healthcare workers.
“We at Qatar Airways are incredibly grateful for the commitment and hard work of healthcare professionals around the world who looked after people in these times of uncertainty. Their heroic display of kindness, dedication, and professionalism has saved hundreds of thousands of lives around the world,” Qatar Airways Group chief executive Akbar Al Baker was quoted in a statement, as saying.
“We have built a strong level of trust with passengers, governments, trade partners, and airports as a reliable partner during this crisis and we intend to continue delivering on this mission by acknowledging the incredible efforts of these heroes. Our crew and operation has never given up during these past three months, never abandoned hope or their mission to help people get home to their loved ones and we do not intend to do so now.”
The giveaway will open at 12.1am Tuesday and close at 11.59pm next Monday (Doha time). Healthcare professionals can register for this exclusive offer at qatarairways.com/ThankYouHeroes by submitting a form to receive a unique promotion code, offered on a first come, first served basis.
Healthcare professionals from every country in the world will be eligible for tickets. To ensure the application process is fair and transparent, each country will receive a daily allocation of tickets, depending on its population size, staggered over the seven-day giveaway period. The daily allocation will be released at 12.01am Doha time throughout the campaign period.
Healthcare professionals that receive the promotion code can book up to two complimentary Economy Class return tickets on Qatar Airways operated flights – one for themselves and one for a companion – to anywhere on the airline’s global network.
Tickets must be booked before November 26, with travel valid until December 10. The tickets will be fully flexible, with an unlimited number of destination or date changes allowed without any fees. Fare and surcharges will be waived on tickets, but airport taxes apply.
“United in dedication, we share our gratitude. Now it is our turn to give something back to those on the healthcare frontline. There are no words or gestures that are enough to repay these brave men and women but we hope that our small offer of a complimentary return flight on Qatar Airways will allow them to enjoy a well-deserved holiday, visit family and friends or explore a destination they have always dreamed of, as travel restrictions start to ease,” Akbar Al Baker said.
As a further gesture of appreciation, healthcare professionals will be offered additionally a voucher with 35 per cent discount to redeem at Qatar Duty Free retail outlets at the airline’s state-of-the-art hub, Hamad International Airport (HIA) in Doha, valid for use up to December 31.
Qatar Airways recently announced that it has begun a phased approach to expanding its network in line with passenger demand evolution and the expected relaxation of entry restrictions around the world. It aims to rebuild its network to an initial 52 destinations by the end of May and 80 in June.
A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways was named ‘World’s Best Airline’ by the 2019 World Airline Awards, managed by Skytrax. It was also named ‘Best Airline in the Middle East’, ‘World’s Best Business Class’, and ‘Best Business Class Seat’, in recognition of its ground-breaking Business Class experience, Qsuite. It is the only airline to have been awarded the coveted ‘Skytrax Airline of the Year’ title, which is recognised as the pinnacle of excellence in the airline industry, five times.
Qatar Airways maintains the highest possible hygiene standards, which include the regular disinfection of aircraft, the use of cleaning products recommended by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the World Health Organisation (WHO), and thermal screening of crew.
In addition, Qatar Airways’ aircraft feature the most advanced air filtration systems, equipped with industrial-size HEPA filters that remove 99.97 per cent of viral and bacterial contaminants from re-circulated air, providing the most effective protection against infection.
All the airline’s onboard linen and blankets are washed, dried and pressed at microbial lethal temperatures, while its headsets are removed of ear foams and rigorously sanitised after each flight. These items are then sealed into individual packaging by staff wearing hygienic disposable gloves.
Qatar Aircraft Catering Company (QACC) was the first organisation in the world last year to achieve ISO22000:2018 certification from Bureau Veritas with UKAS accreditation, confirming its Food Safety Management System meets the highest standards.
All meal service utensils and cutlery are washed with detergents and rinsed with demineralised fresh water at temperatures that kill pathogenic bacteria. All sanitised equipment is handled by staff wearing hygienic disposable gloves, while cutlery is individually re-packed.
Featured
Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives unveils ‘Mystival’ — spellbinding festive extravaganza

This festive season, Sun Siyam Olhuveli Maldives is set to redefine year-end celebrations with the launch of Mystival—a bold and imaginative experience running from 21 December 2025 to 8 January 2026. The event will transform the resort into a vivid tapestry of artistic expression, mystical wonder, and tropical fantasy.
Headlining the celebrations will be internationally acclaimed French duo DJ TRINIX and award-winning singer-songwriter Matilde Girasole. Their high-octane performance on New Year’s Eve promises to be a standout moment in the resort’s vibrant festive calendar. Joining them will be a curated lineup of international acts and local artists, delivering an exhilarating musical landscape across the resort’s three islands: Main Island, Dream Island, and the adults-only Romance Island. Further exciting performer announcements are expected in the lead-up to the event.
DJ TRINIX, the renowned electronic music duo from Lyon, France, bring a genre-blending sound that combines cinematic flair with modern energy. Their musical repertoire has earned over 500 million streams and a place on Top 50 radio charts across Europe. Known for their collaborations with global names such as Akon, Steve Aoki, and Armin van Buuren, and for appearances at iconic venues including Tomorrowland and Zénith Paris, the duo is poised to deliver a truly unforgettable show.
Sharing the spotlight is international pop artist Matilde G, a Singapore-based Italian singer-songwriter celebrated for her dynamic stage presence. With performances spanning Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and the United States—including the 2023 Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix—she was named Best Singer Residing Outside the Middle East at the 2023 MUSIV Awards.
More than a seasonal theme, Mystival invites guests on a fully immersive journey into the surreal and extraordinary. Inspired by celestial mythology, tropical folklore, and avant-garde design, the resort will come alive with dreamlike visuals, artistic installations, and experiential dining, blurring the lines between reality and imagination.
Throughout the festive period, guests will enjoy a diverse range of experiences—from serene spa rituals and vibrant underwater adventures to exhilarating watersports and themed gala dinners. Activities include whale shark expeditions, sunset beach barbecues, cultural performances, children’s programmes at the Maakanaa Kidz Club, and exceptional culinary offerings such as teppanyaki dinners and floating breakfasts.
Highlights of the season include the Christmas Eve Gala, Santa’s spectacular arrival, and an unforgettable New Year’s Eve countdown under the Maldivian stars, complete with live performances, fire shows, and dancing on the beach. Mystival promises joy for guests of all ages, celebrating island life with flair, imagination, and warmth.
To mark the launch of Mystival, Sun Siyam Olhuveli has introduced an exclusive Festive Offer available for bookings made before 31 August 2025. Benefits include:
- Complimentary one-way airport transfer for two guests with a minimum five-night stay in any Pool category
- A 45-minute spa treatment for two guests with a minimum four-night stay in Grand Beach Suites with Pool or Grand Water Villas
- 25% discount on spa treatments with advance booking
- 20% discount on water sports activities
- 20% off à la carte dining for guests on Bed & Breakfast or Half Board meal plans
This is not simply a holiday—it is an invitation to immerse oneself in a world of colour, creativity, and celebration. With soulful rituals and unforgettable entertainment, Mystival at Sun Siyam Olhuveli is set to be the Maldives’ most enchanting festive experience yet.
Action
Tempo brings high-energy Wellbeing Week to Mercure Maldives Kooddoo

Tempo has successfully concluded a vibrant Wellbeing Week at Mercure Maldives Kooddoo, celebrating a dynamic blend of movement, energy, and community. The week-long initiative showcased an array of group fitness experiences curated by Radical Fitness – a globally acclaimed fitness brand founded in Argentina, renowned for its innovative programmes that integrate music, choreography, and athletic training to deliver impactful workouts across the globe.
The activities unfolded across various locations throughout the resort, offering both land and water-based formats for a comprehensive approach to wellness. A standout session took place in the resort’s main pool, where Tempo’s founder, Zinan, led a distinctive aqua fitness class. This session fused the intensity of mixed martial arts with resistance gloves and the fluid resistance of water, creating a revitalising yet challenging workout suitable for all fitness levels.
On the pool bar deck, further energy-filled sessions were held, led by Yan Fayaz, Tempo’s Commercial Director of Hospitality. Guests and staff participated in back-to-back classes of FightDo and Factor F. FightDo – Radical Fitness’s signature cardio-combat programme – draws inspiration from kickboxing, Muay Thai, and other martial arts disciplines, combining punches and kicks to rhythmically energising music for a full-body workout. In contrast, Factor F focused on strength and conditioning through a circuit-style format that utilised both bodyweight and equipment-based exercises to build power, endurance, and functional fitness. Both classes fostered a spirited atmosphere of teamwork and motivation among participants.
Adding star power to the week, the resort welcomed a special guest appearance by fitness influencer Laura Giromini, known as @Viverennewyork on Instagram, who led a one-off ‘Endurance Elite’ workout session.
Tempo continues to redefine wellness within the hospitality sector through its innovative, multi-dimensional fitness offerings tailored for modern resorts. Its flagship garage gym concept, now available in Malé and Hulhumalé, features high-performance equipment and expert-led coaching, providing members with focused, high-intensity training in an encouraging and personalised environment.
Through strategic partnerships with leading fitness organisations such as Radical Fitness International, Fitness Academy Europe, the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), XEBEX, GETRXD, and BH Fitness, Tempo delivers a comprehensive ecosystem of fitness classes, certifications, and high-quality equipment across its resort projects. Notable collaborations include the certification of resort recreation teams via Fitness Academy Europe, as well as the introduction of FightDo and Factor F programmes at Pullman Maldives Maamutaa. Tempo has also recently completed two major certifications – the Basic Fitness Trainer certification and Radical Fitness’s Factor F programme – at the prominent Siyam World resort.
By designing purpose-built fitness spaces, integrating technology-driven programming, and aligning with global fitness brands, Tempo has positioned itself as a trailblazer in wellness solutions for hospitality. Its offerings go far beyond traditional gym access, enriching the guest experience with engaging, professional, and holistic fitness journeys.
Featured
Villa Park named Top Hotel Partner 2025 by Schauinsland Reisen

Villa Park, a vibrant island retreat nestled within the South Ari Marine Protected Area, has been honoured with the esteemed ‘Top Hotel Partner 2025’ award by renowned German tour operator Schauinsland Reisen. This accolade recognises the resort’s exceptional guest satisfaction, outstanding service, and consistent performance as one of the tour operator’s most valued international partners.
Boasting 462 villas – including the Maldives’ most extensive selection of beach pool villas – Villa Park offers a diverse range of accommodation suited to couples, families, and group travellers. Whether opting for beachfront sanctuaries or overwater escapes, guests are assured of privacy and comfort, making the resort a preferred choice for those in search of spacious, flexible, and memorable experiences.
Situated in a marine reserve celebrated for year-round whale shark sightings, the resort is a dream for nature lovers and diving enthusiasts. Families are warmly welcomed, with curated programmes at the Park Players Kids Club that encourage fun, creativity, and exploration for younger guests.
Wellness is also at the heart of the experience. The tranquil Araamu Spa, set amidst lush tropical gardens, offers holistic treatments and traditional Ayurvedic rituals designed to rejuvenate and restore. Meanwhile, Zero Restaurant exemplifies the resort’s commitment to sustainability, serving plant-based cuisine in an open-air garden setting. Ingredients are sourced from the island’s innovative hydroponic and permaculture systems.
Villa Park continues to redefine barefoot luxury through its unique blend of adventure, wellness, and eco-conscious living – all delivered with genuine Maldivian hospitality and a team devoted to exceeding guest expectations.
-
Culture1 week ago
Milaidhoo Maldives invites guests to discover real island living in Kihadhoo
-
Action7 days ago
Go behind scenes at Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives with new immersive tour
-
Cooking6 days ago
W Maldives welcomes acclaimed ‘Dessert King’ Reynold Poernomo for Flavours Unscripted culinary takeover
-
Fitness7 days ago
Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives welcomes celebrity trainer Faisal Abdalla for PMA Island Fitness Residency
-
Cooking1 week ago
From garden to gourmet: Dusit Thani Maldives celebrates local, responsible cuisine
-
Action1 week ago
Ocean, culture, community: sustainable celebrations at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru & Dhawa Ihuru
-
News1 week ago
Anantara Kihavah redefines beachfront luxury with new Beach Pool Villas
-
Featured1 week ago
Timeless romance awaits at award-winning Coco Bodu Hithi