Lifestyle
JOALI crafts next generation of luxury, ethical tourism in Maldives
Nestled in the pristine waters of the Maldives, JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING are two ultra-luxury resorts that have made sustainability their top priority. With a strong focus on preserving the environment, empowering communities, nurturing well-being, and conserving resources, these resorts are setting new standards in eco-conscious luxury travel.
Joy of preserving
At the heart of JOALI’s sustainability efforts is the JOALI Reef Restoration Programme (JRRP), which aims to restore the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the resorts. “Coral reefs are the rainforests of the ocean, and their preservation is crucial for the health of our marine ecosystems,” says Ibrahim Nawaf, Cluster CSR & Sustainability Manager at JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING. The JRRP assists in the natural recovery of the reefs, which have suffered losses due to coral bleaching and climate change. Guests are also encouraged to participate in regular coral planting activities, a vital component of ecological restoration in the Maldives.
To combat ocean waste, the JOALI team conducts frequent dives to remove plastic and other types of waste from the waters around the island. The resorts also organise clean-ups of uninhabited islands nearby and facilitate the removal of ghost gear with the Olive Ridley Project.
Ibrahim Nawaf, Cluster CSR & Sustainability Manager at JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING, explains, “We take pride and joy in managing our own impact on the environment and promoting ecological resilience. We have partnered with local and global conservation organisations to help protect our oceans and the environment. We believe that it is our responsibility to preserve the natural beauty of the Maldives for future generations.
The Marine Biologist programme at JOALI educates young visitors about life underwater and the importance of conservation. “Through interactive games and activities, we teach children about our oceans, marine life, and how they can make a difference through simple actions,” explains Nawaf.
Tree planting activities are also held regularly at both properties and local islands nearby, as trees play a crucial role in protecting soil from erosion and limiting the impact of climate change.
Joy of Empowering
JOALI is passionate about empowering women and creating platforms for their economic and creative aspirations. Inspired by the vision of JOALI’s founder and owner, Esin Gural Argat, the resorts support female education, vocational training, and social entrepreneurship.
JOALI Art Week is a tribute to feminine creativity, featuring live art sessions, interactive workshops, and immersive exhibits by local women artists. “We believe in nurturing local talent and providing opportunities for female artists to showcase their work,” says Nawaf. The exclusive Art House at JOALI BEING also supports local artisans and art-lovers through imaginative events and workshops.
Monthly art dinners at JOALI combine gastronomy, art, and sustainability, featuring all-natural paints made with herbs and flowers from the Chef’s Garden. These inspiring experiences are led by women artists from around the world.
The resorts are committed to gender equality and the development of talented women at all levels of the organisation. “JOALI’s Leadership and Gender Diversity Programme is aligned with our commitment to the UN Women’s gender equality campaign,” states Nawaf.
In recent years, JOALI has donated significant funds to local Women’s Development Committees and other organisations, supporting projects such as waste disposal area renovations, community space development, and fabric waste recycling initiatives.
Joy of Nurturing
Promoting wellness and well-being is a key focus for JOALI. The resorts are dedicated to empowering individuals and communities to take control of their own health and well-being through education, resources, and partnerships.
Global Wellness Day activities, Reading Parks, Brain Gyms, and Special Educational Needs (SEN) Classrooms are just a few examples of JOALI’s commitment to nurturing well-being. “We believe in creating spaces that promote learning, growth, and a healthy lifestyle. We have more exciting community projects in the pipeline with significant investments that will make a huge difference in the communities that we operate in,” says Nawaf.
Joy of Conserving
Everyday practices at JOALI align with their overall vision of sustainability. The resorts have implemented an eco-conscious approach across both islands, with the goal of minimising consumption of key resources and reducing their carbon footprint.
“Our culinary team loves to craft specialties with locally caught fish and seafood, along with organic produce from our Herb Garden,” shares Nawaf. The resorts also use eco-friendly stewarding and laundry chemicals, house their own glass water bottling plants and wastewater treatment systems, and practise rainwater harvesting.
Energy conservation is another priority for JOALI, with efficient LED lights, smart controls in the villas, and a pilot project to increase the use of solar energy. Guests booking directly with the resorts also have the option to off-set their carbon emissions during the reservation process.
JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING are also committed to supporting local communities and promoting cultural tourism. By engaging with local artisans, musicians, and storytellers, the resorts aim to create authentic experiences for their guests while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Maldives.
One example of this commitment is the Culinary Arts Exhibition held during the Raa Tourism Expo 2022. The event showcased the incredible talents of JOALI’s hosts and inspired students and young people from across Raa Atoll. “We believe in promoting healthy eating and an active lifestyle for a full and happy life,” says Ibrahim Nawaf, Cluster CSR & Sustainability Manager at JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING.
The Earth-to-Table initiative at JOALI focuses on ingredient traceability and offering fresh, locally harvested, and sustainably sourced foods that support small farms. “Our slow food mantra promotes local foods, traditional cooking, and clean production methods,” explains Nawaf. The gardens at JOALI are 100 percent organic, growing vegetables, fruits, and culinary and medicinal herbs using sustainable techniques. The team draws on both traditional knowledge and modern science to produce the best ingredients while simultaneously protecting the environment.
As JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING continue to lead the way in sustainable luxury travel, they remain dedicated to fostering strong relationships with local communities and promoting cultural tourism. By collaborating with local artisans, musicians, and storytellers, the resorts create authentic experiences for their guests while preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Maldives.
One of the ways JOALI supports local communities is through their commitment to fair trade principles. By ethically sourcing tea, coffee, and wood products, the resorts ensure that their suppliers are treated fairly and that their practices are environmentally responsible. Additionally, JOALI strives to use local produce and buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste, further minimising their environmental impact.
As more travellers seek eco-conscious destinations, JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING stand out as prime examples of how luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. By focusing on preserving the environment, empowering communities, nurturing well-being, and conserving resources, the resorts demonstrate that it is possible to offer an unforgettable guest experience while also making a positive impact on the world. As the hospitality industry evolves, JOALI Maldives and JOALI BEING will undoubtedly continue to set new benchmarks for sustainability and responsible luxury. As Nawaf says, “We believe that sustainability is not just a buzzword; it is a way of life. It makes a business case as well, as without preserving our environment we cannot have a tourism industry in a few decades. We are committed to making a positive impact on the environment and the communities we serve.”
From 17 to 21 September 2026, Ifuru Island Maldives welcomes Ripple & Friends for an intimate island gathering bringing together music, live performance, art, wellness, movement, dining and unforgettable shared moments.
From 17 to 21 September 2026, Ifuru Island Maldives introduces Ripple & Friends in collaboration with Ripple Effect for an intimate island gathering bringing together music, live performance, art, wellness, movement, dining and unforgettable shared moments.
Ripple Effect is a Maldives-based creative company shaping experiences where music, hospitality and culture come together. From distinctive events to original music production, moments are created to bring people together and leave a lasting impression.
The “& Friends” is more than a name. It represents everyone who joins the gathering, creating an experience centred on music, good food, creativity and genuine connection.
Rather than following the format of a conventional music festival, Ripple & Friends is designed to move with the natural rhythm of island life. Each day brings its own defining moments, while leaving guests with the freedom to slow down, explore Ifuru Island and enjoy the experience at their own pace.
Across four days and nights, the programme moves between sunset sessions, live performances, DJ led nights, poolside gatherings, shared dining experiences, art, wellness and movement, before coming together for a unplugged jam session.
Four days; four distinctive rythms
DAY ONE | FIRST RIPPLE
Thursday, 17 September 2026
The first ripple begins at sunset.
Guests gather at Waterfront as the sun goes down over Ifuru Island, setting the tone for the days ahead with music, dining and a first night dedicated to nostalgic sounds and good company.
- Sunset Session at Waterfront
- Welcome Dinner at Waterfront
- 90s & Disco House at Hubba Hubba
- Dress Code: White
From the first sunset session to the late night atmosphere at Hubba Hubba, Thursday is designed as an introduction to the people, music and spirit that will shape the rest of Ripple & Friends.
DAY TWO | LOW TIDE
Friday, 18 September 2026
Friday begins with movement before the tempo rises.
Dynamic Stretch with Martha at the Pool Deck starts the day, followed by an R&B and Hip Hop Brunch and a Pool Party, bringing music into the heart of the daytime island experience.
As evening arrives, guests come together for a BBQ Dinner at Social House before the night continues with After Dark at Hubba Hubba.
- Dynamic Stretch with Martha at the Pool Deck
- R&B and Hip Hop Brunch
- Pool Party
- BBQ Dinner at Social House
- After Dark at Hubba Hubba
Low Tide brings together wellness, food, music and poolside energy in a day designed to move effortlessly from morning into night.
DAY THREE | HIGH TIDE
Saturday, 19 September 2026
Saturday sees the energy rise with High Tide.
The day begins with Morning Stretches with Sharu at the Pool Deck, offering a slower start before the island shifts towards an evening of music and celebration.
As sunset approaches, guests gather for a Sundowner at Beach Club, before the night reaches its peak with High Tide at Hubba Hubba.
- Morning Stretches with Sharu at the Pool Deck
- Sundowner at Beach Club
- High Tide at Hubba Hubba
High Tide captures the contrast at the heart of the experience, moving from a relaxed island morning to sunset gatherings and an energetic Saturday night.
DAY FOUR | WHINE DOWN
Sunday, 20 September 2026
After three days of music, movement and shared experiences, Sunday brings a change of pace with Whine Down.
The evening begins with a Sundowner by the Pool, bringing everyone back together as the sun begins to set.
The night then moves to Hubba Hubba for Whine Down, closing the fourth full day of Ripple & Friends with music, connection and one more night shared among friends.
- Sundowner by the Pool
- Whine Down at Hubba Hubba
It is a fitting final full night for a gathering built around taking time, meeting people and enjoying each moment without rushing towards the next.
LAST RIPPLE
Monday, 21 September 2026
Ripple & Friends does not simply end after the fourth night.
On Monday, guests come together one final time for Last Ripple, featuring an Unplugged Jam Session at Hubba Hubba.
Stripping the experience back to live music and the people who have shared the previous four days, Last Ripple offers an intimate conclusion to the gathering before guests say goodbye to the island and to new friends made along the way.
- Unplugged Jam Session at Hubba Hubba
At the heart of Ripple & Friends is a collective of talent spanning duos, selectors, art, wellness and movement.
The 2026 gathering features:
- Inma & Mira
- Farey & Nish
- Afruh
- Tappu
- Amney & Aleef
- Martha
- Studio Odi by Naani
- Sharu
Together, they bring different creative dimensions to the island, allowing the programme to move naturally between music, performance, art, wellness and movement throughout the four days.
What sets Ripple & Friends apart is its intentionally unhurried approach.
Instead of creating a packed schedule that asks guests to move constantly from one event to another, the experience allows the island itself to become part of the programme.
One moment each day is shaped around the Ripple & Friends community, while the rest leaves room for guests to wander, discover and enjoy Ifuru Island on their own terms.
Music moves between Waterfront, the Pool Deck, Beach Club and Hubba Hubba. Meals become social gatherings. Wellness and movement provide a different rhythm to the mornings, while sunsets naturally bring everyone back together.
At its heart, Ripple & Friends is about the people sharing those moments.
Guests may arrive as names on a list, but the idea is simple: Come as a guest, leave as a friend.
For more information, please visit the resort’s official website or contact bookingmagic@ifuruisland.com.
Forget the traditional festive getaway. This December, Sun Siyam Olhuveli, part of the Lifestyle Collection by Sun Siyam, is turning three interconnected islands into one vibrant celebration as Carnival of the Isles returns from 21 December 2026 to 8 January 2027. Bringing together world-class entertainment, island culture and unforgettable experiences, this year’s line-up is headlined by BBC Radio 1 and Radio 1Xtra’s Jeremiah Asiamah, alongside returning British Rapper & DJ Ironik, Canadian Belly Dancer Nourah, and LA-Based Performance Company Wildfire Arts.
Created exclusively for Sun Siyam Olhuveli, Carnival of the Isles reimagines the festive season through the vibrant lens of island life. More than a holiday programme, it transforms the resort into one continuous celebration where music, culture, food and adventure unfold across three unique islands, each with its own atmosphere yet connected through one unforgettable experience. From sunrise wellness sessions and family adventures to waterfront celebrations, beach clubs and after-dark entertainment, guests are invited to discover a festive escape that feels spontaneous, social and unmistakably Maldivian.
Leading this year’s entertainment programme is Jeremiah Asiamah, one of the UK’s most exciting DJs and broadcasters. Best known for his influential shows on BBC Radio 1 and BBC Radio 1Xtra, Jeremiah has become a defining voice in Afro House, Amapiano and global electronic music. From Glastonbury, Wireless Festival, Notting Hill Carnival and Ushuaïa Ibiza to collaborations with Prada Beauty, London Fashion Week and Arsenal F.C., his unique blend of music, fashion and culture has made him one of the UK’s most exciting creative talents. This festive season, he brings his signature festival energy to the shores of the Maldives with an exclusive series of performances for Carnival of the Isles.
Returning by popular demand is DJ Ironik, the British rapper, DJ and producer behind the Platinum-selling hit Tiny Dancer (Hold Me Closer) featuring Chipmunk and Elton John. Renowned for his crowd-pleasing sets that effortlessly blend chart favourites with club classics, Ironik returns to headline the resort’s biggest beach parties and New Year’s celebrations, keeping the energy high long after sunset.
Adding an entirely different dimension to this year’s programme is Nourah, the internationally acclaimed Canadian belly dancer whose performances combine the elegance of traditional Middle Eastern dance with contemporary artistry. Having captivated audiences at luxury resorts, international festivals and prestigious events around the world, her graceful performances bring a sense of theatre and cultural richness to the island’s festive evenings.
Completing the line-up is the return of Wildfire Arts, the Los Angeles-based performance company celebrated for transforming outdoor spaces into immersive theatrical experiences. Combining breathtaking aerial performances, fire artistry, LED productions and acrobatics, the internationally acclaimed troupe has appeared everywhere from global festivals to productions for organisations including SpaceX. At Carnival of the Isles, they will once again transform the beachfront into an unforgettable open-air stage.
At the heart of the celebrations is The Grand Carnival of the Isles, a spectacular weekly event that transforms the beachfront of the Beach Pavilions into one of the Maldives’ most exciting open-air entertainment experiences. Inspired by the colour, rhythm and energy of the world’s great island carnivals, guests can wander through lively street-style markets, discover roaming performers and live music, experience breathtaking circus acts, enjoy interactive games and family entertainment, or embrace the excitement of water sports before the celebration continues with sunset DJ sessions and unforgettable evenings beneath the stars.
The festive calendar extends far beyond the carnival itself, with signature experiences unfolding throughout the season. Guests can gather for the magical Christmas Tree Light-Up Ceremony, welcome Santa Claus as he makes his tropical arrival by the beach, raise a glass at the Christmas Gala Cocktail and celebrate together during the elegant New Year’s Eve Gala and spectacular countdown to 2027. Along the way, colourful moments such as the annual Olhuveli Colour Run, Kids Futsal League, international Street Market, beach parties, themed dining experiences, sunset cruises, wellness sessions, sports tournaments and family activities ensure there is always something new to discover from sunrise to starlight.
More than a festive escape, Carnival of the Isles is where music, culture and island life come together across three unforgettable weeks in the Maldives. Join the celebration at Sun Siyam Olhuveli and discover this year’s festive programme and special offers.
Maagiri Hotel is set to celebrate the Independence Day of the Maldives with a series of special dining experiences, inviting guests, families, and the local community to come together and commemorate this significant national occasion.
To mark the celebrations, the hotel will host an Independence Day Special Breakfast Buffet from 24 to 26 July 2026. Guests can enjoy a generous selection of local and international breakfast favourites in a warm and welcoming setting, making it the perfect way to begin the holiday celebrations with family and friends.
The festivities will continue on 26 July 2026 with a Special Maldivian Dinner Buffet at Faru Restaurant. The dinner will feature a variety of authentic Maldivian dishes, carefully prepared by the hotel’s culinary team to showcase the rich flavours and traditions of the Maldives. From local delicacies to beloved national favourites, the buffet offers a memorable dining experience that celebrates the country’s culinary heritage.
Adding a sweet touch to the celebrations, Maagiri Hotel also features a selection of locally crafted artisan ice cream flavours with the support of Iceto, highlighting the creativity of local artisans and celebrating Maldivian craftsmanship through unique, handcrafted treats at the Rooftop Restaurant.
As part of the hotel’s commitment to celebrating national occasions, the Independence Day promotions are designed to bring people together through exceptional food, warm hospitality, and a shared appreciation for Maldivian culture and traditions.
Maagiri Hotel warmly welcomes guests to join the Independence Day celebrations and enjoy a memorable dining experience while honouring the spirit of the nation’s independence.
For reservations and bookings, please call 3318484 / 7228484 or text (Viber) 7228484.
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