Malkong Maldives

Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) has officially launched Creatoll, a global content creator platform designed to showcase authentic Maldivian stories and connect creators with tourism partners, brands, and global audiences. The platform was unveiled by Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim during the Maldives Culture and Food Festival 2025. Creatoll is conceived as a dedicated content marketplace where Maldivian and international content creators can professionally showcase, license, and monetise content that highlights the Maldives. The name reflects the idea that creativity emerges from every atoll, recognising that talent exists across the islands and that compelling Maldivian storytelling can be shaped by both local and visiting creators. At launch, Creatoll features curated visual content that captures real island experiences, local culture, nature, and everyday life in the Maldives. The platform is designed to evolve over time, expanding its scope to support a wider ...

The Maldives Culture & Food Festival 2025 opens this evening at Hulhumalé Central Park, marking the start of a three-day national celebration of Maldivian culture, cuisine, and community, while also recognising a defining year for the country’s tourism sector as the Maldives welcomes the New Year. Organised by Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Environment (MOTE) and the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), and supported by main sponsor Bank of Maldives (BML). This year’s festival holds particular significance as 2025 marks one of the strongest years in the history of Maldivian tourism. The Maldives crossed the two-million tourist arrival mark earlier than ever before, recorded its highest tourism performance to date with travel receipts projected to exceed USD 5.8 billion, and was recognised as the World’s Leading Destination for the sixth consecutive year, making it the only country in the world to achieve this distinction. The fe...

  The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort  and IRONMAN World Champion Lucy Charles-Barclay brought their exclusive wellness retreat to life with a memorable day at the  Maldivian Mermaids Anhenunfushi Farm  on December 17, 2025, celebrating community connection, sustainable agriculture, and the joy of shared wellness. The special visit, part of the three-day wellness and endurance experience, saw Lucy and resort guests venture beyond the resort to Anhenunfushi Island for an immersive cultural exchange that perfectly embodied the resort's Move Well and Eat Well philosophy. The day began with a guided farm tour, where guests discovered sustainable farming practices unique to the Maldives, followed by a farm-to-table tasting featuring fresh, healthy bites harvested directly from the island’s organic gardens. Lucy then led an energizing warm-up session on the beach, sharing practical fitness tips and inspiring the local Maldivian Mermaids team with insights from her champi...

Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC), in partnership with Liverpool Football Club (LFC), has announced the winner of the “Penalty to Paradise” campaign, a football-led destination promotion that connected global fan engagement with the opportunity to experience the Maldives. The competition brought together 50 Liverpool FC members in a sudden-death penalty shootout challenge, where the final remaining contestant won an all-expenses-paid holiday to the Maldives, including a stay at Kandima Maldives. After multiple rounds and surprise side challenges, Finley McGovern, 19, emerged as the winner and secured the grand prize. Reacting to his win, Finn said he was “speechless,” adding, “I can’t speak. I don’t know what to say.” When asked who he would take with him to the Maldives, he chose his twin sister, who had also taken part in the competition and was eliminated earlier in the shootout. The contest featured a series of high-pressure penalty rounds, guest appearances, and creative challenges...

Visit Maldives Corporation, together with the Ministry of Tourism & Environment and the Housing Development Corporation (HDC), has commenced planning for New Year celebrations in Hulhumalé’, building on the success and positive public response of last year’s festivities. The celebrations are expected to feature signature elements that resonated strongly with the public in 2024, including a special Drone Show, Fireworks, Food stalls, and cultural experiences designed for both locals and visitors. The initiative, running from 30 December 2025 to 1 January 2026, aims to once again create a vibrant, inclusive, and family-friendly atmosphere to welcome the New Year. At this stage, planning is ongoing and further details regarding the programme, dates, and activations will be announced in due course. The New Year celebrations are being developed as a joint initiative by Visit Maldives, the Ministry of Tourism & Environment, and HDC.   Organisers are also in discussions with poten...

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, an island synonymous with barefoot luxury and refined romance, is delighted to unveil its Valentine’s Day 2026 programme, Through the Sands of Time. Designed as a poetic journey celebrating love in all its forms, this thoughtfully curated experience invites couples to pause, reconnect, and create memories that linger long after the waves have erased their footprints from the shore. Nestled amid turquoise waters and powder-soft sands, the resort is celebrated as one of the Maldives’ most romantic escapes, with accommodation designed to inspire intimacy. The Water Villa with Private Pool, elegantly poised above the lagoon, offers uninterrupted ocean views and complete seclusion—ideal for couples seeking privacy infused with Maldivian serenity. On land, the Beach Villa with Private Pool is enveloped by lush greenery and opens directly onto a private stretch of sand, creating an idyllic sanctuary for sunset rituals and unhurried mornings together. These vil...

On the morning of November 26th, as the Maldives basked in the gentle warmth of the festive season, Canareef Resort Maldives once again illuminated the island with its cherished Christmas tradition — the annual Cake Mixing Ceremony. Held at the vibrant Dhoaraa Bar at 10:30 am, the event brought together guests, staff, and island friends in a spirited celebration of togetherness, tradition, and holiday cheer. This year’s ceremony unfolded as a colorful tapestry of joyful faces, aromatic spices, and rich, fragrant ingredients. Guests from around the world gathered eagerly to blend dried fruits with a splash of local warmth into a hearty festive mixture. As rhythmic stirring filled the air with cinnamon, nutmeg, and rum-infused scents, participants bonded over a time-honored tradition symbolizing unity and the joy of giving. The ocean breeze mingled with the sweet aroma, creating an atmosphere that truly embodied the island’s magic. The Cake Mixing Ceremony at Canareef is more than an eve...

Located in South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru offers a range of wellness-focused experiences designed to support physical and mental well-being. Central to these offerings is Angsana Spa, which draws on Asian wellness traditions and incorporates therapeutic techniques involving touch, aroma, and natural elements. The spa provides a variety of treatments, including massages, body treatments, and signature rituals that use ingredients such as coconut, honey, and tropical herbs. The resort’s wellness approach extends beyond spa treatments to include physical activity and mindfulness practices. Facilities include a fitness centre set within the natural surroundings of the island, as well as organised activities such as aqua aerobics in the Kuredhi Pool and yoga sessions held on the beach. These activities are intended to combine physical movement with relaxation and awareness. Additional wellness sessions available to guests include guided meditation, breathwork, and sunset yoga. These...

 Travellers continue to return to the Maldives in search of clear lagoons, warm hospitality and meaningful experiences that reflect both the destination and their personal interests. As visitor expectations evolve, research shows a growing preference for stays that feel tailored rather than standardised. A recent Mews survey reports that 68% of travellers prefer personalised experiences instead of generic rewards, with even stronger interest among Gen Z and affluent travellers. Recognising these preferences,  Cinnamon Hotels and Resorts Maldives  has refined its Book Direct value offering. The updated structure allows guests who book directly to select two curated experiences from each resort’s personalised list while also receiving resort credits for stays of three nights or more. This credit can be used across dining, wellness and recreational activities, giving guests the freedom to shape their time on the island according to their interests and pace. Members of Cinnam...

Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) has announced new measures for 2026 aimed at increasing participation from small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including guesthouses, liveaboards, and travel agencies. The initiative reflects VMC’s dedication to supporting smaller operators while maintaining strong destination marketing momentum with the support of local NGOs. For 2026, VMC will introduce more accessible and lower-priced membership options, enabling a broader range of SMEs across the country to join the corporation’s marketing network. These measures aim to ensure that every segment of the tourism sector—large or small—has the opportunity to contribute to and benefit from global promotion of the Maldives. VMC will also reduce participation fees for roadshows and promotional activities for resorts, guesthouses, travel agencies, and liveaboards. In addition, SMEs will have access to flexible non-physical participation options, including digital showcases, representation services, a...

Several resorts within Marriott International’s Luxury Group portfolio in the Maldives were recognised at the inaugural Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards 2025. The awards marked the first regional edition of the programme. The recognised properties were The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa, and W Maldives, which received rankings across multiple categories. In the Favorite Overseas Leisure Hotels category, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands was ranked second, while JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa was ranked fourth. Both resorts feature private villa accommodation and a range of dining and guest programmes reflective of the Maldivian setting. The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands was designed by Kerry Hill Architects and features circular villas positioned over land and water. JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa includes overwater and beach pool villas and multiple dining venues. In the Favorite Destination S...

JOALI BEING, a well-being–focused island resort in the Maldives, has announced a partnership with LVATE, a dermatology and aesthetics clinic based in Munich. The collaboration will introduce LVATE Signature Facials at the resort beginning in 2026. The treatments were developed by dermatology specialist PD Dr. med. Anne Gürtler and plastic surgeon Dr. med. Lukas Kohler. Founded in Munich by Dr. Gürtler and Dr. Kohler, LVATE offers dermatological and aesthetic services using technology-supported techniques and clinically informed approaches. The clinic’s team includes professionals in dermatology, aesthetics, and cosmetic care. The LVATE approach emphasises a holistic style of practice that incorporates sensory elements and patient consultation. The focus is on supporting skin health and addressing individual concerns rather than pursuing extensive aesthetic alteration. “Our goal is not perfection, but long-term skin health and natural balance,” said Dr. Gürtler. The facial treatments of...

Siyam World Maldives achieved a notable milestone on December 5th by becoming the first resort to earn a Guinness World Records title for the most people snorkeling simultaneously at a single venue. In collaboration with Freedive Maldives, the resort gathered 307 participants, exceeding the required minimum of 250. Guests, nearby island residents, and snorkelling enthusiasts from the region took part, filling the house reef with activity for the record attempt. Guinness World Records officials were present on-site to verify the attempt, and all participants received official Guinness World Records medals — marking the first such medal ceremony held in the Maldives. The event highlighted community engagement and interest in marine experiences, aligning with Sun Siyam Resorts’ broader environmental initiatives, which encourage visitors and locals to better understand and protect the country’s marine ecosystems. It also represented a moment of recognition for Maldivian tourism and ocean c...

At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, Maldivian cuisine is celebrated not merely as food, but as a reflection of the islands’ heritage and identity. Among its most meaningful traditions is the preparation of Kandu Kukulhu, the Maldives’ iconic rolled tuna curry. Rooted in local custom and passed down through generations, this cherished dish forms the heart of Vilu Reef’s weekly Maldivian cooking classes, offering guests an intimate introduction to the flavours, techniques, and stories that define the archipelago. As part of the resort’s signature culinary journey, it brings the Maldivian spirit to life through authentic tastes and thoughtful storytelling. Deeply tied to tradition, Kandu Kukulhu represents centuries of culinary craft. At Vilu Reef, the experience is led by the resort’s Maldivian chefs, who demonstrate each step with the precision and intuition inherited from their ancestors. Guests learn how to artfully slice fresh tuna, layer it with aromatic spices, and bind the rolls with coconut ...

Meyyafushi Maldives, a brand-new five-star Premium All-Inclusive boutique resort, has introduced an extraordinary sporting experience that redefines recreation in paradise: the world’s first fixed Overwater Padel Tennis Court. Set above crystal-clear lagoons where sunsets paint the sky, this architectural masterpiece invites guests to play, rejuvenate, and connect in an unforgettable setting, surrounded by panoramic views and the soothing embrace of the ocean. At Meyyafushi, wellness and adventure blend seamlessly with breathtaking beauty, establishing a new benchmark for exceptional resort experiences. Nestled within the tranquil Lhaviyani Atoll, the court offers players a rare opportunity to enjoy a friendly rally while surrounded by shimmering lagoons and the calming rhythm of the sea. As part of the resort’s Premium All-Inclusive experience, guests can enjoy one hour of complimentary padel tennis during their stay. Its peaceful overwater location provides an intimate and relaxing p...

The Maldives has once again secured its position as a global tourism leader after being named World’s Leading Destination 2025 for the sixth consecutive year and World’s Leading Green Destination 2025 for the second consecutive year at the World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala Ceremony, held at Exhibition World Bahrain. The World Travel Awards, established in 1993, are recognised worldwide as the highest honour in the global travel and tourism industry. The awards celebrate excellence across all sectors of travel and tourism and are determined through international voting from industry professionals and the public. Winning the title of World’s Leading Destination for six years in a row marks a historic achievement for the Maldives, reflecting the destination’s long-term consistency, strong brand presence, and sustained global appeal. The Maldives’ second consecutive win as World’s Leading Green Destination highlights its ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainable touri...

The Maldives continues to reinforce its status as one of the world’s most desirable island destinations, marking another year of exceptional tourism performance in 2025. Tourism remains the foundation of the Maldivian economy, driving national revenue, employment, and international visibility. Alongside tourism, the fisheries sector—particularly tuna fishing—continues to serve as a vital contributor to livelihoods and exports, forming the second major pillar of economic strength for the nation. The global appeal of the Maldives is rooted in its unmatched natural beauty and world-class hospitality. Its turquoise lagoons, white-sand beaches, and thriving coral reefs create a picture-perfect setting that draws millions of visitors each year. Luxury resorts, private-island experiences, and exclusive overwater villas have become globally recognised symbols of Maldivian tourism, attracting honeymooners, families, adventurers, and high-end travellers seeking tranquillity and refinement. The y...

Lily Beach Resort & Spa Maldives is set to sparkle this festive season with a spectacular programme themed “Black & White Vintage”, a tribute to timeless elegance and joyful island living. From 20th December 2025 to 7th January 2026, the award-winning all-inclusive resort invites guests to celebrate the holidays surrounded by pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and unforgettable experiences that During this festive period, Lily Beach’s idyllic island setting transforms into a vibrant wonderland: azure waters sparkle under star-filled skies, and the décor celebrates both tropical charm and seasonal elegance. Guests can expect haute cuisine, family-friendly adventures, signature wellness sessions, and themed events that span the sands, the reef and the horizon beyond. A highlight of the season is the presence of celebrated marine scientist and storyteller Bill François and astronomer-explorer Bob François, who bring two spectacular strands of programming to life: marine-life expl...

Visit Maldives is proudly participating in ILTM Cannes 2025, the world’s most prestigious and influential luxury travel trade show, held from 1–4 December 2025 at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. As the pinnacle event in global luxury travel, ILTM Cannes serves as an unmatched platform for destinations to engage with the world’s top luxury buyers, elite travel designers, and high-end tour operators. This year’s participation stands as one of Visit Maldives Corporation’s biggest milestones, reinforcing the Maldives’ position as the leading ultra-luxury destination and showcasing the country’s sharpened strategy to attract the world’s most affluent travellers. Visit Maldives has placed strong emphasis on revenue-driven luxury tourism as a core priority for 2026, shifting focus from surface arrivals to high-value, high-yield markets. At ILTM Cannes, the Maldives stand highlights the country’s signature elements of barefoot luxury, including private islands, overwater villas, welln...

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives has proudly announced its prestigious placement as the Top 5th Overseas Leisure Resort (Global Category) in the Condé Nast Traveller Middle East Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, one of the most respected accolades in luxury travel, voted by discerning travellers across the region. Having previously earned top rankings from the Condé Nast family of titles, the five star luxury resort in the Maldives, Kuda Villingili continues to build on a rich legacy of guest- driven recognition. Kuda Villingili also secured a place among the Top Resorts in the Indian Ocean in the Condé Nast Traveller US Readers’ Choice Awards 2025, marking the resort’s second major Condé Nast accolade within the same year. These back-to-back recognitions highlight the resort’s global appeal and its unwavering commitment to delivering excellence across markets. Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director, shared: “To be recognised twice in a single year by two global editions of Condé Nast Traveller...

On the morning of November 26th, as the Maldives basked in the gentle warmth of the festive season, Canareef Resort Maldives once again illuminated the island with its cherished Christmas tradition — the annual Cake Mixing Ceremony. Held at the vibrant Dhoaraa Bar at 10:30 am, this event brought together guests, staff, and island friends in a spirited celebration of togetherness, tradition, and holiday cheer.   This year’s ceremony was a colorful tapestry of joyful faces, aromatic spices, and rich, fragrant ingredients. Guests from around the world eagerly gathered to blend dried fruits, and a splash of local warmth into a hearty, festive mixture. As the rhythmic stirring filled the air with cinnamon, nutmeg, and rum-infused scents, participants bonded over a time-honored tradition that symbolizes unity and the joy of giving. The ocean breeze mingled with the sweet aroma, creating an atmosphere that truly embodied the island’s magic. The Cake Mixing Ceremony at Canareef is m...

This festive season, Dhawa Ihuru invites travellers to celebrate the joy of island life with Festive Splash – a vibrant programme of ocean adventures, culinary delights, and family-friendly experiences from 22 December 2025 to 10 January 2026. Recognised by Travel + Leisure Asia Awards 2025 for the Maldives’ Best House Reef, Dhawa Ihuru transforms into a lively playground where every moment invites fun, connection, and discovery this wonderful time of the year. Dive Into Days of Discovery and Fun Island Excursions From sunrise to sunset, the turquoise lagoon becomes the heart of the celebration. Guests can embark on Big Game Fishing, Night Fishing, and Festive Sunset Cruises that paint the horizon in gold. Thrill-seekers can dive into Adrenaline Tube Rides, glide on the Sailing Adventure Ride, soar high with Parasailing Photo Flights, or join the exhilarating Cross the Channel Swimming challenge. Marine lovers can explore the island’s thriving coral reef on See Fish Snorkel or discover...

Ifuru Island Maldives proudly celebrates its second anniversary on 1 December 2025, marking two vibrant years of breathtaking sunsets, unforgettable celebrations, and luxury guest experiences while continuing to redefine premium all-inclusive in the Maldives. This milestone reflects the island’s rapid growth and global recognition, highlighted by major wins at the 2025 World Luxury Awards and the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards. Set in the serene Raa Atoll, Ifuru Island offers a secluded paradise with one kilometer of pristine white sand and unforgettable Maldivian sunsets. The resort balances lively shared spaces with tranquil private corners, giving guests the perfect mix of connection and calm. With 147 spacious accommodations featuring private pools and direct beach access, Ifuru Island remains a preferred destination for families, couples, friends, or solo travelers seeking truly memorable experiences. Culinary excellence remains at the heart of the Ifuru exper...

Back by popular demand, Kuramathi Maldives – available exclusively through Kuoni in the UK - is thrilled to announce the return of Campioni Soccer Academy next Summer, a two-week celebration of sport, sunshine, and island spirit. Set against the turquoise backdrop of the Indian Ocean, Campioni transforms Kuramathi’s pristine football pitch into a world-class training ground for aspiring young players aged 4 to 16 years. Welcoming one of England’s best known and most loved football icons Stuart Pearce MBE, and Manchester United’s treble-winning defender Wes Brown, each joined by UEFA ‘A’ licensed coach Adrian Whitbread, this year Campioni promises two unforgettable weeks of daily training sessions in paradise. Week One: 27 July - 1 August 2026 | Led by Stuart Pearce MBE and Adrian Whitbread Week Two: 3 - 8 August 2026 | Led by Wes Brown and Adrian Whitbread The experience begins in true island style with a beachfront welcome reception where families meet the legends, collect their bespo...

Coco Bodu Hithi , has once again been honoured on the global stage, winning Best Waterside Hotel (Riverside, Lakeside, Seaside) at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards for Excellence 2026 , held on 3 November 2025 in the UK. This marks the second consecutive year the resort has received recognition from the prestigious publication, reaffirming its dedication to heartfelt Maldivian hospitality and refined island living, following last year’s win for Best Service , a testament to its commitment to delivering exceptional, heartfelt hospitality, and creating truly memorable experiences for the guests. ned island living, following last year’s win for Best Service , a testament to its commitment to delivering exceptional, heartfelt hospitality, and creating truly memorable experiences for the guests. Bathed in golden sunsets and surrounded by the gentle rhythm of the Indian Ocean, Coco Bodu Hithi, described by Condé Nast Johansens as an “over-water, over-indulgent Maldivian island outpost,” offe...

Kandolhu Maldives is thrilled to announce the completion of its latest refurbishment, which includes the transformation of its Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas into luxurious retreats of comfort and style. Designed to maximise privacy and relaxation, these newly upgraded villas now feature a fresh, contemporary design, complete with private pools and stunning panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Spanning 120 square metres, the redesigned Deluxe Ocean Pool Villas offer a spacious bedroom, a bright and airy bathroom with a deep oval bathtub overlooking the ocean, and a private outdoor deck. The deck includes sun loungers, a sun umbrella, and a new 23-square-metre private pool. For added indulgence, a hammock suspended over the water invites guests to relax while soaking up the tranquil ocean views. The villas retain the signature minimalist aesthetic of Kandolhu, originally envisioned by renowned Maldivian architect Mohamed ‘Sappe’ Shafeeq. Seamlessly blending with the island’s natural beauty, t...

Noku Maldives, Vignette Collection, is delighted to announce its Festive Season 2025/2026 celebrations under the evocative theme “Tides of Transformation.” Inspired by the gentle rhythms of the island—the turning tides, the shifting skies, and the soft glow of bioluminescence—this year’s festive programme invites guests to embrace renewal, reflection, and meaningful celebration. There are moments when the world seems to pause—just long enough for something new to begin. At Noku Maldives, transformation unfolds not in haste, but in harmony with nature’s quiet cadence.  Beneath starlit heavens and glowing tides, change reveals itself softly: through subtle awakenings, deep stillness, and the quiet power of beginning again. This season, we honour not only the joy of celebration, but the beauty of becoming. From the bioluminescent shimmer that graces the lagoon at night, to the delicate uncurling of a petal at dawn, every moment reflects the island’s gentle reminder to return to our es...