Gastronomy
Healthy is no longer boring: JOALI BEING takes wellbeing focused F&B experiences to next level
Ahmed Shaheen, the esteemed Food and Beverage Manager at JOALI BEING, has transformed his humble beginnings as a room attendant at Paradise Island Resort into a remarkable career spanning over 20 years in the hospitality industry. Today, he leads the Food and Beverage team at JOALI BEING, the first luxury wellbeing island of its kind in the world, where he masterfully incorporates the island’s philosophy into every aspect of the dining experience.
Having worked with prestigious resorts such as Four Seasons Resort Maldives, W Maldives, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, and Vakkaru Maldives, Shaheen’s dedication to excellence and passion for hospitality have earned him a reputation as an industry leader.
“I’ve always believed in the power of hard work and perseverance,” Shaheen says. “My journey has taught me that with dedication and a willingness to learn, anything is possible.”
At JOALI BEING, Shaheen’s primary focus is guiding his team to create exceptional dining experiences that align with the island’s wellbeing concept.
“Our goal is to provide our guests with a holistic approach to wellbeing, and that includes the food and beverages we serve,” he explains. “Our kitchens are laid out in such a way that there’s no room for cross-contamination. We carefully curate our menus to ensure that they are not only delicious but also nourishing and in harmony with our guests’ wellbeing journey.”
JOALI BEING’s culinary journey embraces an Earth-to-Table initiative, ensuring ingredient traceability and providing fresh, locally harvested, and sustainably sourced foods that support small farms. The island’s culinary philosophy is centred around engaging with unique ingredients in a timeless and respectful manner, allowing for a deeper understanding and appreciation of their origins. Its food offerings create a harmonious path for profound discovery by immersing guests in an environment that encourages personal transformation through unforgettable and thoughtfully curated experiences.
The island’s nutritionists have skilfully crafted all food and beverage options based on its four pillars – Mind, Skin, Microbiome and Energy – presenting a variety of flavours and cuisines that balance health and indulgence. For guests seeking a more personalised experience, JOALI BEING offers tailored nutrition sessions and collaborative menu recommendations.
“Working closely with wellbeing experts, we develop menus that are both nutritious and indulgent. We believe that wellbeing should be enjoyable, and our culinary offerings reflect that philosophy,” Shaheen says. “Our guests can expect to find dishes that are rich in flavour, made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and designed to support their overall wellbeing.”
What sets JOALI BEING’s Food and Beverage service apart from other islands is the attention to detail and the personalised approach to dining.
“We understand that each guest has unique preferences and dietary needs, so we strive to create bespoke dining experiences that cater to their individual tastes while staying true to our philosophy and pillars,” Shaheen shares. “Our team is trained to anticipate our guests’ needs and to go above and beyond to ensure that their dining experience is nothing short of exceptional.”
As a Maldivian himself, Shaheen is passionate about inspiring the next generation of hospitality professionals in his home country. His message to young Maldivians who wish to pursue a career in tourism and hospitality is one of encouragement and determination.
“The hospitality industry offers incredible opportunities for growth and personal development,” he says. “My advice to young Maldivians is to be open to learning, embrace challenges, and never give up on your dreams.”
Shaheen’s own career is a testament to the power of perseverance and the opportunities that the hospitality industry can provide. From his early days as a room attendant to his current role as Food and Beverage Manager at JOALI BEING, Shaheen has consistently demonstrated his commitment to excellence and his passion for creating unforgettable experiences for guests.
As JOALI BEING continues to redefine luxury wellbeing in the Maldives, Ahmed Shaheen’s leadership and vision for the island’s Food and Beverage department will undoubtedly play a crucial role in its success. With his wealth of experience and unwavering dedication to his craft, Shaheen is poised to make a lasting impact on the Maldivian hospitality industry and beyond, all the while making JOALI BEING an ideal destination for your next holiday or vacation.
OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO has announced a 9-Hands Dinner event scheduled to take place from 25 to 27 May, offering a curated dining experience as part of its guest programme.
The event will feature a multi-course menu developed by three chefs representing Egypt, Madeira and the Maldives. Each chef will present dishes reflecting their respective culinary backgrounds, combining different techniques and flavour profiles within a single dining concept.
The dinner is positioned as an interactive culinary experience, bringing together elements of storytelling and presentation alongside the menu. According to the resort, the concept is designed to highlight both innovation and traditional influences in cuisine.
The experience will be included within the resort’s plan for in-house guests, forming part of the overall stay offering.
Commenting on the event, General Manager Alain Trefois stated that the initiative reflects the resort’s focus on expanding guest experiences beyond standard dining formats. He noted that the event provides an opportunity for guests to engage with culinary presentation in a structured setting.
Anupam Banerjee, Vice President Food & Beverage at Atmosphere Core, said the collaboration brings together different culinary influences, combining regional ingredients and techniques into a single dining programme.
Located in North Malé Atoll, OBLU NATURE Helengeli by SENTIDO is known for its house reef and marine environment, offering a range of activities alongside its accommodation and dining options.
The resort has indicated that availability for the 9-Hands Dinner event will be limited, with advance booking recommended for guests wishing to attend.
This October, guests of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort are invited to immerse themselves in the refined world of Japanese gastronomy as Thomas Ling, Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador and internationally acclaimed sake authority, returns for an exclusive two day sake experience celebrating culture, craftsmanship, and culinary artistry.
Curated on the secluded shores of Vommuli Island, the experience offers discerning traveler intimate access to one of Japan’s most respected voices in the world of Nihonshu, set against a backdrop of pristine natural beauty and serene seclusion.
Conferred by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan as a Japanese Cuisine Goodwill Ambassador—an honour shared among a select circle of global culinary luminaries including Nobu Matsuhisa and Tetsuya Wakuda—Thomas Ling has further received the Ambassador’s Commendation Award from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With more than 24 years of refined expertise, he is celebrated for his dedication to promoting Japan’s “Kokushu,” the national collective heritage beverages of sake, shochu, and awamori, while safeguarding the cultural traditions that define them.
This collaboration forms part of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort’s Tastemaker Series, which brings together influential global talents to one of the Maldives’ most captivating private island destinations. The programme continues to define the resort as a place where creativity, excellence, and cultural expression converge, offering guests rare opportunities to connect with leading voices across culinary arts, fine wine, mixology, wellness, and sport.
A Curated Programme of Japanese Artistry
The experience begins on 5 October with an intimate Sake Masterclass hosted at T•Pan, the resort’s refined Japanese dining venue. Designed for a maximum of just 12 guests, the complimentary session offers an in depth exploration of premium sakes, guided by Ling’s expert commentary on brewing techniques, regional expression, and cultural significance.
The programme begins on 5 October with an intimate Sake Masterclass at T•Pan, hosted by Thomas Ling. Taking place from 15:00 to 16:00, the complimentary experience is limited to 12 guests, offering a rare opportunity to explore premium sakes through expert insight into craftsmanship, regional expression, and cultural significance.
On 6 October, guests are invited to indulge in a meticulously curated four course Sake Pairing Dinner at Orientale, where contemporary Japanese cuisine is elevated through thoughtful pairings that enhance flavour, texture, and balance. Designed as a one night only experience, the evening celebrates harmony between dish and drink in the spirit of true omotenashi.
The Four Course Sake Pairing Dinner will be served from 19:00 to 22:30, priced at USD 295++ per person.
For more information and details, please visit www.stregismaldives.com.
The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is set to welcome back celebrated mixologist Felice Capasso, Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2025, for a series of exclusive appearances this November as part of the resort’s distinguished Tastemaker Series.
Renowned for his refined technique and imaginative approach to flavour, Capasso will host a curated programme of intimate masterclasses and a signature bar takeover, inviting guests to explore the artistry behind world class cocktails in one of the Maldives’ most iconic settings.
Taking place at the resort’s dramatic overwater Whale Bar, inspired by the graceful form of a whale shark and suspended above the turquoise lagoon, guests will experience Capasso’s award winning style against sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and the resort’s private coral reef. His appearances will reflect the balance of classical precision and contemporary creativity that has defined his global reputation.
The programme begins on 7 November, with a complimentary Master Cocktail Class at the Whale Bar, where Capasso will guide guests through the foundations of modern mixology, sharing insights into technique, balance and storytelling behind exceptional drinks.
On 9 November, a more intimate Master Cocktail Class with Canapés will be hosted at T•Pan, the resort’s signature overwater teppanyaki venue. Limited in capacity, this exclusive session pairs Capasso’s bespoke cocktails with refined culinary accompaniments, creating a multi sensory tasting experience.
The series culminates on 10 November with a three hour Bar Takeover at the Whale Bar, where Capasso will debut a specially curated cocktail menu crafted exclusively for the evening. Guests can enjoy innovative flavour combinations, refined presentation, and the vibrant energy of a world class bartender in residence.
Situated on a private natural island in the Dhaalu Atoll, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is celebrated for its iconic architecture, bespoke St. Regis Butler Service, and exceptional hospitality. The resort features 77 villas—33 on the beach and 44 overwater—each with a private infinity pool and uninterrupted ocean views. At its pinnacle sits the John Jacob Astor Estate, the Maldives’ largest three bedroom overwater villa, offering expansive living spaces, a private spa suite, and a 92 square meter infinity pool.
Felice Capasso’s residency continues the legacy of the Tastemaker Series, which brings leading global talents across mixology, gastronomy, fine wine, wellness and sport to The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. The programme is designed to offer guests privileged access to influential voices shaping contemporary culture, creativity and craftsmanship.
Event Details
- Master Cocktail Class | Whale Bar (Complimentary experience): 7 November | 15:00 – 16:00
- Intimate Master Cocktail Class with Canapés | T•Pan: 9 November | 15:00 – 16:00
- Bar Takeover | Whale Bar: 10 November | 17:00 – 20:00
For more information and details, please visit www.stregismaldives.com.
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