Business
MATI holds AGM, elects executive board
The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) held its 32nd Annual General Meeting at Kurumba Maldives on Thursday.
A total of 96 members participated in this year’s AGM. This year’s AGM was also attended by the Minister of Tourism Dr Abdulla Mausoom, Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Technology Aminath Shauna, and the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation Thoyyib Mohamed who delivered remarks and participated in a Q&A session as well.
The event was also attended by Ismail Hameed, President, National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM); Abdulla Ibrahim, Vice-President, National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM); Abdulla Suood, Executive Board Member, Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO); Raaif Shaaz Waleed, Executive Board Member, National Hotels and Guesthouses Association of Maldives (NHGAM); and, Mohamed Yameen, Executive Board Member, National Hotels and Guesthouses Association of Maldives (NHGAM).
The Chairman of MATI, Mohamed Umar Maniku initiated the AGM by delivering the official opening remarks, followed by a statement from the Secretary General of MATI, Ahmed Nazeer.
Ahmed Nazeer oversaw the official proceedings of the AGM. The proceedings included the Passing of Minutes of the 31st AGM and adoption of minutes, a video presentation which highlighted work done by MATI for the year 2021, the presentation of the annual report and Financial Reports for 2021, adoption of the budget for 2022 and the Appointment of Auditors for 2022. Furthermore, the board members for the year 2022-2023 were elected.
In light of this year being the Golden Jubilee of Tourism, MATI also showcased a video detailing the celebratory activities organised by MATI for the year. They included the Chevening / Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) Scholarships partnership, release of 2 coffee table books titled – “Maldivian Resort Architecture 50 years of island resorts” authored by Mauroof Jameel, and “50 years of Tourism in Maldives – the Pioneers, People and Policies that shaped the Industry” authored by Dr Simad Saeed set to be released during the Gala Dinner held on the 40th Anniversary of MATI on the 12th August 2022 and a partnership with Parley Maldives tackling plastic pollution and promoting environmental conservation.
The following were elected to the Executive Board of MATI for the year 2022-2023:
- Mohamed Umar Maniku, Chairman
- Hussain Afeef, Vice-Chairman
- Salah Shihab, Vice-Chairman
- Ahmed Nazeer, Secretary General
- Ahmed Hafeez, Financial Controller
- Asad Ali, Deputy Secretary General
- Ahmed Siyam Mohamed, Executive Board Member
- Ibrahim Siyad Qasim, Executive Board Member
- Ibrahim Noordeen, Executive Board Member
- Iyaz Waheed, Executive Board Member
- Visha Mahir, Executive Board Member
- Ismail Siyan Qasim, Executive Board Member
- Aishath Neena Ahmed, Executive Board Member
- Zulaikha Manik, Executive Board Member
- Mahjoob Shujau, Executive Board Member
- Salil Panigrahi, Executive Board Member
- Rivero Delgado, Executive Board Member
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Denise Hoefer brings world-class Padel to The Nautilus Maldives
As part of its ‘Masters for Masters’ series, The Nautilus Maldives will host Denise Hoefer, Germany’s No. 1 padel player and one of the world’s top 50 most influential figures in the padel industry, for an exclusive Padel Masterclass from March 22 to 25, 2025. This exceptional event invites guests to enhance their padel skills under the expert guidance of a global champion, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Maldives’ Indian Ocean.
Padel, recognised as the world’s fastest-growing sport, has captured the hearts of 30 million enthusiasts globally, according to the International Padel Federation. This March, The Nautilus will provide a unique opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in this thrilling game during a four-day Padel Masterclass led by Denise Hoefer, Germany’s top-ranked female padel player and captain of the German national team. Participants will refine their techniques on The Nautilus’s state-of-the-art padel court, while experiencing the island’s signature blend of world-class coaching and timeless, unscripted hospitality.
The Padel Masterclass will feature a tailored mix of group and private sessions, catering to players of all levels. Younger participants will have the chance to join the Young Wonderers program, offering specially designed classes that introduce the sport in a fun and engaging way. After an energising day on the court, guests can unwind at Solasta Spa, where exclusive treatments by Maison Caulières—such as Spinal Connection Deep Tissue Healing, Volcanic Stone Therapy, and Warm Poultices—promise ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. These tranquil spa experiences provide a perfect complement to the day’s dynamic activities, leaving participants refreshed and revitalised.
With just 26 ultra-luxury houses and residences, The Nautilus offers an intimate sanctuary within the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Surrounded by powder-soft white sands, vibrant coral reefs, and crystal-clear waters, this private island retreat redefines bespoke hospitality. Every element is meticulously crafted to inspire, offering guests an unparalleled ultra-luxury experience focused on relaxation, renewal, and discovery. Whether honing padel skills or embracing the serenity of island life, The Nautilus stands as the ultimate destination for discerning travellers.
Business
BBM, Lifebuoy empowers hygiene practices among Maldivian children
BBM, in collaboration with Lifebuoy, marked Global Handwashing Day 2024 with engaging activities aimed at instilling the habit of proper hand hygiene among Maldivian school children. Held on November 17th, the event continued the successful “H for Handwashing” campaign, blending education with creativity and fun.
The initiative featured info sessions, exciting games, and creative contests designed to teach children the importance of handwashing while giving them a hands-on understanding of the correct techniques. Activities ranged from reimagined board games like “Germs & Ladders” and “Handwashing Ludo” to interactive sessions that reinforced hygiene habits in an enjoyable way.
This campaign underscores BBM’s commitment to fostering healthier practices among the younger generation, contributing to a healthier and more hygienic Maldives. COO of BBM, A.V.S. Subrahmanyam, emphasised, “At BBM, we believe that empowering the next generation with the knowledge and tools for better hygiene practices is vital for building a resilient and healthy community. We are proud to continue our efforts in collaboration with partners like Lifebuoy.”
Adding to this, Muksith Hussain, Head of Retail Sales at BBM, shared, “Reaching children through such innovative initiatives helps us lay the foundation for a healthier tomorrow. We are thrilled to see the enthusiasm and participation of these young minds in learning the importance of hygiene.”
The event also saw valuable support from the Maldivian Red Crescent (MRC), whose contributions enriched the experience for the children. BBM expressed gratitude for MRC’s involvement, as their efforts played a key role in making the event impactful and memorable.
Through campaigns like this, BBM aims to nurture a lifelong habit of handwashing, creating a brighter and healthier future for the Maldives.
Let’s keep the spirit alive—join the Handwashing Revolution with BBM and Lifebuoy!
Business
SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS to introduce 6 resorts in Maldives
SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS has announced the first phase of its plan to develop six resorts in the Maldives. Co-founded by CEO Laith Pharaon, the company aims to establish a hospitality model based on personalised service, artistic design, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle.
The initial two resorts are set to open in South Malé Atoll in 2025 and 2026, with each property featuring unique experiences. All resorts will adhere to a shared philosophy of tailoring stays to individual guest preferences.
Speaking about the company’s approach, Pharaon highlighted the focus on enhancing the guest experience by prioritising time, space, and freedom. He stated that removing unnecessary elements allows the company to deliver a guest journey aligned with expectations.
Director of Operations Marc Gussing shared insights into the planned offerings, which include personalised services beginning before guests arrive. Gussing, with nearly 15 years of experience in the Maldives, emphasised the aim to cater to guests seeking customised experiences that align with their preferences.
SIX & SIX has outlined its commitment to sustainability through ambitious environmental and social goals. The resorts will incorporate solar power, zero-waste practices, support for local produce, reef rehabilitation projects, and community programmes. These efforts aim to preserve the Maldives’ natural environment and contribute to its local communities.
The first resort, RAH GILI MALDIVES, will open in late 2025. Located in South Malé Atoll, the resort is near a dolphin sanctuary and will offer 74 pool villas, including 38 overwater options. Villas will range from 120 to 200 square meters, each featuring private pools. Guests will have access to dining options, cultural activities, and social spaces.
In 2026, DHON MAAGA MALDIVES will follow as an ultra-luxury resort. The property will include 31 overwater and 25 beach villas, with sizes ranging from 250 to over 400 square meters. Features include private pools, wellness facilities, and fine dining. The resort also plans to offer private-jet transfers and a wine cellar, aiming to deliver exclusive experiences.
SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS is positioning itself as a key player in the Maldives’ hospitality sector with its blend of tailored experiences and sustainability-driven practices.
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