Skip to main content

Posts

Showing posts from February, 2026

Maldives unveils “Ocean Nation” Pavilion at SATTE 2026

Visit Maldives is proud to announce its participation in SATTE 2026, South Asia’s leading travel and tourism trade exhibition, taking place from 25th to 27th February 2026 at the Yashobhoomi Convention Center, Dwarka, New Delhi, India. Through this key industry platform, Visit Maldives is showcasing the unparalleled beauty and diversity of the Sunny Side of Life to both B2B and B2C audiences, further strengthening the Maldives’ presence across the Indian and South Asian markets. SATTE 2026 features over 2,100 exhibitors from more than 50 countries, providing direct access to global markets, industry leaders, and high-impact business opportunities. With India’s travel market valued at approximately USD 45 billion, this annual gathering offers an ideal environment for destinations and travel brands to expand partnerships, explore new opportunities, and reinforce market positioning. A total of 22 co-exhibitors from the Maldives’ tourism industry are participating alongside Visit Maldives ...

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef enhances its ocean experiences with new private marine adventures

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef , part of Sun Siyam’s Privé Collection, unveils an expanded portfolio of water-based experiences designed to highlight the natural beauty and vibrant marine life of its surrounding atolls. Thoughtfully curated to combine energy, exploration and moments of calm, the new offerings invite guests to experience the Maldives from a fresh perspective. Building on its popular Jet Car, SeaBob and windsurfing activities, the resort now enhances its watersports programme with private speedboat journeys and bespoke marine excursions, each tailored for small groups seeking meaningful ocean encounters. Private Speedboat Journeys Available daily from the Watersports Centre, the new private speedboat experiences provide an intimate way to discover the hidden gems of Dhaalu Atoll. Designed for one to four guests, each excursion ensures flexibility, personalised attention and access to some of the region’s most captivating marine locations. Guests may choose from four hour, five hour...

Maldives at ITB Berlin 2026 to Bring Back Maldivian Night and Press Conference

Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) is set to make a strong return to ITB Berlin 2026 with the revival of the highly anticipated Maldivian Night and a dedicated international press conference, reinforcing the Maldives’ strategic build-up toward Visit Maldives Year 2027. ITB Berlin will take place from March 3rd to 5th at Messe Berlin, the world’s largest travel trade show. While the Maldives will once again showcase its industry strength through a dynamic national pavilion, this year’s participation extends beyond the exhibition floor. The reintroduction of the Maldivian Night marks a significant highlight in the destination’s global engagement calendar. Designed as an exclusive, invitation-only gathering, the evening will bring together leading tour operators, airline partners, media representatives, travel trade executives, and key stakeholders to celebrate Maldivian hospitality, culture, and innovation. Co-hosted in partnership with Bank of Maldives (BML), the Maldivian Night will also...

Good travel with Marriott Bonvoy™ redefines purposeful tourism through curated Asia-Pacific experiences

Marriott International Asia Pacific today unveiled a series of new, enhanced guest experiences under Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy™, a program that enables intentional travel across the region. With almost 100 experiences offered across close to 80 hotels in 12 APEC markets, Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy™ offers guests the opportunity to forge deeper connections with the destinations and local communities they visit.   Centered around two main pillars, Community and Environment – the current program provides a variety of enriching experiences for guests across the region to explore what matters to the places they visit and discover how they can get involved. With a robust line-up of experiences, the Good Travel with Marriott Bonvoy™ program is well-positioned to support intentional travel and serve as a trusted platform for travelers seeking a deeper understanding of local cultures and opportunities to contribute positively to local communities and ecosystems.   “The enh...

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa welcomes locals and expats to celebrate Ramadan with curated island iftar experiences

As Ramadan begins, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invites locals and resident expatriates to gather with family, friends, and colleagues for moments of reflection, connection, and togetherness through a thoughtfully curated collection of Iftar experiences at its serene private island sanctuary. Designed to honor the spirit of the season, each evening brings guests together over memorable dining, warm hospitality, and meaningful shared traditions. From vibrant buffet spreads to tranquil beachside gatherings beneath the stars, the resort presents distinctive ways to break the fast while embracing the calm beauty of the Maldives. IFTAR BUFFET AT FEAST Guests may enjoy a daily Iftar buffet at Feast Restaurant from 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM, featuring a generous selection of international cuisine complemented by traditional Ramadan favorites and soft beverages. Shared return speedboat transfers via Velana International Airport are included, ensuring a smooth and convenient island ar...

Nova Maldives celebrates ‘Best of Barefoot 2026’ award win at the Stop Over Reisen Awards

Nova Maldives has announced that it has been awarded ‘Best of Barefoot 2026’ at the Stop Over Reisen Awards 2026. Stop Over Reisen, a leading luxury tour operator with more than 35 years of expertise in curating high-end Maldivian escapes, presents the annual awards to celebrate the resorts that have most captured guests’ hearts. Chosen entirely through client votes, the traveller-voted awards reflect genuine guest experiences and the meaningful connections formed during their stays. In the Barefoot category, Nova’s relaxed island spirit, natural elegance and heartfelt hospitality resonated strongly with travellers, recognising the island resort’s commitment to creating a space where guests feel instantly at ease and truly at home. Rooted in community, culture and connection, the resort offers a contemporary approach to island living, where simplicity, authenticity and togetherness define the experience. Home to just 76 beach and overwater villas, the island maintains an intimate and w...

Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives welcomes strong Chinese New Year demand and introduces The Lunar Retreat: New Moon, New Memories

Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives has reported strong demand from the Chinese market this Lunar New Year, with the resort reaching high occupancy levels and limited villa availability throughout the festive period. This performance reflects a growing appetite among Chinese travellers for experience-led luxury shaped by meaning, intention and connection, rather than celebration alone. Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, marks a time of renewal and forward momentum. In the Year of the Fire Horse, traditionally associated with passion, confidence and bold new journeys, many couples are inspired to look ahead, considering shared experiences and future travel plans that reflect their aspirations together. While availability during the peak festive period remains limited, the resort is embracing the spirit of the season with the launch of a special offer featuring a 30 per cent saving, designed for future stays that allow guests to slow down and reconnect. THE LUNAR RETREAT: NE...

SeaSational Summer: The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort elevates the season with the return of its Tastemaker Series 2026 featuring chef Gianluca Renzi

As part of the destination-wide SeaSational Summer celebration, a curated calendar of immersive events and experiences unfolds across the islands, inviting guests to engage more deeply with the Maldives through culture, cuisine and connection. The initiative shines a spotlight on exceptional partnerships and limited-edition moments and events designed to elevate the seasonal escape. In this spirit, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort unveils the return of its distinguished Tastemaker Series for 2026, reaffirming its dedication to welcoming globally acclaimed talents to one of the Maldives’ most captivating private island retreats. The programme continues to position the resort as a refined cultural hub where creativity and excellence converge, granting guests exclusive access to leading figures across the culinary arts, fine wine, mixology, wellness and sport. The series commences in January with renowned chef Gianluca Renzi, whose residency will encompass elegant wine-focused dining...

Maldives to Host World Travel Awards Indian Ocean Gala 2026

Visit Maldives is proud to announce that the prestigious World Travel Awards (WTA) Indian Ocean Gala Ceremony 2026 will be hosted in the Maldives on 27 September 2026, marking the return of the event to the country after a decade. The gala will take place on World Tourism Day, adding even greater significance to what will be a landmark moment for Maldivian tourism. Established in 1993, the World Travel Awards is widely regarded as the ultimate hallmark of excellence in global travel and tourism. Now in its 33rd year, WTA recognises and rewards outstanding achievements across all key sectors of the industry, including destinations, airlines, hotels, resorts, cruise operators and travel service providers. Winners are selected through votes cast by travel professionals, industry leaders and consumers worldwide, making it one of the most credible and respected accolades in tourism. Each year, WTA hosts a Grand Tour of regional gala ceremonies across the world, celebrating the finest perfor...

SeaSational Summer: Marriott Bonvoy curates an Endless Summer offer across the Maldives

With the launch of the SeaSational Summer campaign, the Maldives continues to rank high on travellers’ bucket lists for its year-round sunshine, turquoise lagoons and impossibly soft white sand, making it an ideal island escape. Complemented by curated, ongoing events and experiences across the destination, the appeal of the Maldives remains stronger than ever with the launch of the SeaSational Summer campaign by Visit Maldives. As the year begins, Marriott Bonvoy invites travellers once again to plan their next escape through its ‘Endless Summer’ offer, designed for those seeking perpetual sunshine and effortless island living. This summer, guests can choose from Marriott Bonvoy’s collection of distinctive resorts across the Maldives and enjoy the benefits of this time-limited offer. Whether planning a romantic retreat, a family holiday or a restorative solo getaway, the exclusive package allows guests to fully immerse themselves in a variety of activities across Marriott Bonvoy’s eig...

A candy coloured Easter awaits at Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives

This Easter, Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives invites guests to step into a world of colour, joy, and togetherness, inspired by the playful charm of Candy Land and reimagined through the resort’s signature sense of calm, space, and understated luxury.   Set on a private island in the North Malé Atoll, just 30 minutes by luxury speedboat from Velana International Airport, Kuda Villingili is home to 75 spacious villas and residences, thoughtfully designed to offer privacy, freedom, and a seamless connection to nature. Known for its relaxed elegance, intuitive service, and one of the Maldives’ most diverse dining and wellness offerings, the resort provides an idyllic setting for meaningful celebrations shared with loved ones.   Easter at Kuda Villingili is marked by a series of thoughtfully curated dining experiences that bring families and friends together around the table. Throughout the week, guests can explore themed culinary journeys such as Caravan of Flavours, Pan-Asian Voy...

St. Regis Maldives announces partnership with LUX Tennis

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort,  a private island sanctuary located in one of the Maldives’ most exclusive atolls, has announced a partnership with  LUX Tennis . The collaboration reinforces the resort’s established tennis programme, with a brand-new padel court set to follow, further expanding its active lifestyle offering for families.   Rooted in the legacy of the Astor family, founders of the original St. Regis New York, the St. Regis brand continues to draw inspiration from a heritage of sport and refined leisure. During the Gilded Age, tennis became a defining symbol of elegance within the Astor’s social world, reflecting a lifestyle centered on culture, hospitality and recreation. That tradition endures today across the St. Regis portfolio, where classic sporting pursuits remain an expression of the brand’s commitment to sophistication and glamour.   Set against the St. Regis Maldives’ island backdrop, the enhanced LUX Tennis programme elevates the on-i...

Villa Park recognised with HolidayCheck Award 2026

Villa Park has been recognised with the HolidayCheck Award 2026 for the second consecutive year, reflecting continued guest trust and consistently strong feedback. Set on one of the Maldives’ largest natural islands in the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPA) region, Villa Park is a standout choice for families seeking a lush, activity-filled escape. With tropical greenery woven throughout the island, long stretches of beach, and a wide range of experiences to suit every age, the resort offers the space and variety that make family travel feel effortless. From active lagoon days to slower, restorative moments, families can shape each day around what matters most to them. Villa Park is also home to an extensive range of  Beach Pool Villas , offering picture-perfect settings designed for easy indoor-outdoor living. Surrounded by palms and gardens, these private stays deliver the bright, tropical backdrop guests return for and love to capture. For families, the island experience is...

Visit Maldives and DERTOUR Deutschland sign MoU to drive German tourist growth and deepen long-term market investment

Visit Maldives Corporation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with DERTOUR Deutschland—one of the largest tour operators in Europe—to significantly increase tourist arrivals from Germany and further strengthen the Maldives’ presence in the European travel market. The MoU was signed on the sidelines of the official visit of Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to Berlin on 10 February 2026. The agreement was signed on behalf of Visit Maldives Corporation by Ibrahim Shiuree, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, and on behalf of DERTOUR Deutschland by Jörn Krausser, Director – Indian Ocean & Asia. Through this strategic partnership, both parties will collaborate on destination marketing initiatives aimed at driving a minimum of 100,000 German tourist arrivals, with a shared ambition to exceed 200,000 German visitors in the following year, reinforcing Germany’s position as one of the Maldives’ most important European source markets. The collaboration will focus on joint promotional...

Sun Siyam celebrates Valentine’s with romantic escapes in the Maldives

This Valentine’s season,  Sun Siyam  invites couples to experience romance across its diverse collection of Maldivian island resorts, each with its own rhythm and character. From unhurried island days to soulful escapes shaped by love stories and nature, every destination offers a distinct, intimate way to reconnect; effortless, personal, and deeply romantic . At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, from 12 to 14 February, Valentine’s unfolds as a series of bespoke moments designed for togetherness, from floating breakfasts and sunset indulgences in private pool villas to secluded island picnics and snorkelling escapes. Evenings are marked by signature experiences such as Cinema by Moonlight on the water, live DJ gatherings, and restorative couple rituals at the spa, creating a balance between playful romance and quiet intimacy. Couples are invited to view the full Valentine’s programme at  https://www.sunsiyam.com/sun-siyam-iru-fushi/upcoming-events/slow-days-together/ From 11 to 14 Feb...

A Valentine’s escape, curated for two

This Valentine’s season, Ifuru Island Maldives presents A Valentine’s Escape, Curated for Two, a refined collection of romantic experiences designed for couples seeking meaningful connection in an island setting defined by natural beauty and understated luxury.   At the heart of the offering are romantic beach dinners, set beneath the stars, and an exclusive private dining experience at Ifuru Island’s Secret Spot, a secluded location reserved for couples seeking complete privacy. Each experience is carefully curated by the culinary team, featuring thoughtfully designed menus, candlelit settings, and attentive service, available by prior arrangement.   For couples drawn to the open sea, Ifuru Island introduces a private romantic yacht charter in collaboration with Blend, offering an elegant journey across turquoise waters. With curated refreshments and uninterrupted sunset views, the experience is designed for a limited number of couples and lends itself to proposals, anniversa...

Love finds its perfect setting at The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort this Valentine’s Day

As Valentine’s Day approaches,  The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort  invites couples to celebrate their love story in one of the world’s most romantic settings. Nestled in the Maldives’ first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the resort has curated an exceptional collection of experiences, from intimate beachfront dining under the stars to rejuvenating couples’ spa rituals and exclusive romantic activities. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed to make Valentine’s Day a memory that lasts a lifetime. For couples seeking the ultimate intimate experience, the resort’s Destination Dinner offers an unparalleled romantic journey by the beach. Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, with the gentle sound of waves and a canopy of stars overhead, guests will indulge in a meticulously crafted seven-course premium tasting menu prepared by a dedicated private chef. This exclusive experience includes one bottle of premium champagne, a romantic beach setup, and a fresh flower bouquet ...

St. Regis Maldives welcomes Michelin-starred chef Glynn Purnell in April 2026

Michelin starred chef, restaurateur and television favourite Glynn Purnell, affectionately known as “The Yummy Brummie”, will bring his bold, modern British cooking to the Indian Ocean this April as he joins the Tastemaker Series at St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. With a career spanning more than 35 years, two Michelin-starred restaurants to his name, and a familiar presence on British television, Purnell’s residency promises an energetic, personality-driven celebration of flavour. From 3–6 April, his confident, ingredient-led approach will be showcased through a curated programme including a signature tasting dinner, an intimate cooking class, and a finale experience hosted at the resort’s The Whale Bar, offering guests the opportunity to engage with the chef’s craft in an informal, immersive setting. Purnell’s culinary journey began at just 14 years old with a hotel kitchen work placement, before he honed his skills at the Metropole Hotel and the acclaimed Simpson’s Restaurant, wh...

Slow living in the Baa Atoll with Milaidhoo’s Simply Summer offer

In a destination often defined by excess, Milaidhoo Maldives presents a different summer narrative,one shaped by restraint, rhythm and rare stillness. Simply Summer is a seasonal escape that celebrates the art of slowing down within the UNESCO-protected waters of the Baa Atoll. An intimate island sanctuary, Milaidhoo is designed for travellers who regard time as the ultimate luxury. Days unfold unhurriedly, beginning with relaxed oceanfront breakfasts and guided entirely by choice, from sunrise yoga and snorkelling in pristine coral gardens to long, private hours spent within the calm of a personal villa. Evenings are marked by elegant à la carte dining, inspired by seasonal flavours and delivered with effortless grace. The Simply Summer offer enhances this experience through considered privileges rather than excess. Guests may explore the Maldives’ natural wonders through manta ray encounters in the legendary Hanifaru Bay, indulge in restorative rituals at the overwater Serenity Spa, ...

Maldives’ premium halal tourist offerings showcased at Muslim Travel Show 2026 in partnership with IHTO Maldives

Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC), in partnership with International Halal Tourism Organization (IHTO) Maldives has participated in the Muslim Travel Show 2026, which took place at the ExCeL London from February 7th-8th, 2026, highlighting the Maldives’ commitment to becoming a premier destination within the global halal tourism ecosystem. The Muslim Travel Show was Europe’s leading exhibition for the muslim travel segment providing VMC with a specialized platform to engage with a global market. With over 200 exhibitors, the event offered unparalleled access to high-spending travelers and key international industry stakeholders. The Maldives' presence at the event was driven by a comprehensive strategy to enhance destination visibility and ensure unified branding across international halal tourism platforms. By participating in this high-profile showcase, VMC aimed to position the Maldives as an official and credible destination for muslim travellers, while strengthening relationshi...

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu marks a decade of sea turtle conservation with The Olive Ridley Project

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, part of boutique-island resort collective Coco Collection, is celebrating ten years of partnership with the Olive Ridley Project (ORP), a charity dedicated to protecting sea turtles and their habitats, marking a decade of commitment to marine conservation in the Maldives.   Now celebrating a decade of collaboration, Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu and the Olive Ridley Project opened the Maldives’ first veterinary-led Marine Turtle Rescue Centre in 2017, pioneering specialised sea turtle care in the country. Since then, the centre has treated and released 152 injured turtles, achieving a rehabilitation success rate of nearly 60%, and plays a vital role in helping turtles affected by human activities such as entanglement in marine debris and ghost nets.   Alongside its rescue work, ORP leads vital long-term sea turtle research across the Maldives, with data on nesting, populations and threats, contributing to the country’s first National Red List Assessment of Threa...

Welcoming the Lunar New Year at Angsana Velavaru

Angsana Velavaru invites guests to welcome the Lunar New Year with a vibrant two-day celebration inspired by the togetherness, prosperity, and joyful beginnings. From 16 to 17 February, the island comes alive with the cultural rituals, festive dining, ocean adventures, and family-friendly experiences in the honour of the Year of the Horse.   Set within a vast private lagoon in the South Nilandhe Atoll, Angsana Velavaru offers a setting where tradition meets island rhythm. The Lunar New Year programme blends meaningful moments with relaxed celebration, encouraging guests of all ages to connect, explore, and share in the spirit of renewal.   The festivities unfold across the island with a rich tapestry of experiences. Days begin with energising water aerobics at Kuredhi Pool Bar and gentle encounters with the island’s resident lovebirds, while afternoons invite creativity through dumpling-making workshops, kite flying by the shore, and friendly beach volleyball matches. For thos...

SeaSational Summer to position the Maldives as a year-round destination through coordinated national momentum

Visit Maldives has officially launched SeaSational Summer, a nationwide, digital-led summer campaign designed to position the Maldives as the place to visit during the summer months, supported by visible events, experiences, and activities taking place across the country. The campaign was introduced at the Visit Maldives Quarterly Insights – Maldives Tourism Intelligence Briefing on 02 February 2026, where industry leaders and marketing professionals were briefed on how the initiative was developed using global travel research, market analysis, and digital behaviour insights. SeaSational Summer is designed  to bring together industry efforts under a single, credible seasonal banner, providing reassurance for travellers who increasingly seek proof that destinations are active, planned, and relevant at the time of travel. Rather than promoting isolated offers or short-term activations, the campaign presents summer in the Maldives as a coordinated national season, supported by ongoing...

Demand surges for big Australian acts performing at Kandooma Maldives in 2026

Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, in partnership with Music in Paradise, has confirmed an exceptional line-up of internationally acclaimed Australian artists for its 2026 concert series. With demand already soaring, several events are now sold out or close to capacity, reaffirming Kandooma’s reputation as one of the world’s most intimate and exclusive live-music destinations. The Cat Empire | 17–24 May 2026 – Almost Sold Out The multi-award-winning jazz-funk phenomenon will bring their infectious energy and global sound to Kandooma for three sunset beach concerts. Fusing jazz, funk, ska, Latin and reggae, The Cat Empire are renowned for high-octane live performances and feel-good rhythms. Only six Beach Houses (from A$4,550++ per person twin share) remain available for this week. Visit: https://www.musicinparadise.com.au/event/the-cat-empire-live-in-the maldives/ Missy Higgins | 13–20 June 2026 – Limited Availability Following her hugely successful 2025 debut at Kandooma, Missy Hig...

Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa marks spring festival with cultural festivities and island experiences

Set within the serene beauty of the Maldives, Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa invites guests to celebrate the Spring Festival in a setting that brings families together while honoring the timeless traditions of the Lunar New Year. From February 16-18, 2026, the island transforms into a festive sanctuary adorned with red and gold accents, where the spirit of reunion, prosperity, and renewal unfolds naturally by the sea.   Crafted especially for families and multi-generational travel, the three-day Spring Festival program blends meaningful cultural rituals with the relaxed elegance of island living. Guests are welcomed to enjoy vibrant dragon and lion dances symbolizing strength and good fortune, alongside interactive experiences such as lantern making and calligraphy, each thoughtfully designed to celebrate harmony and new beginnings.   At the heart of the festivities is the Prosperity Eve Dinner by the Beach, a celebratory reunion feast set against the ocean at An...

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives helps island students discover a world beneath the waves

Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives  successfully completed a six-day PADI Open Water Diver certification programme for a selected group of students from Keyodhoo and Felidhoo schools, as part of its ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives focused on youth development, environmental awareness, and community engagement. The programme was designed not only to provide internationally recognised diving qualifications but also to instil a sense of responsibility towards the Maldives’ delicate marine ecosystems, while opening pathways for future careers in marine tourism. This transformative journey was delivered in partnership with Dive & Sail, the resort’s PADI-certified diving centre, with full support from the participating schools. Nine students, aged between 16 and 18, were carefully selected for their academic promise and curiosity about marine life. Over six days, they progressed from classroom learning to the open waters of the lagoon, experiencing first-hand the b...

President Dr. Muizzu designates 2027 as "Visit Maldives Year”

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has officially designated 2027 as "Visit Maldives Year," signalling the start of a transformative national campaign aimed at elevating the Maldives' tourism sector to unprecedented heights. Delivering the 2026 Presidential Address at the opening of the People’s Majlis, President Muizzu characterized the initiative as a "monumental national endeavour." He emphasized that the campaign will serve as a unified platform, bringing together domestic and international stakeholders to fortify the nation’s primary economic engine. "Tourism remains the gateway of our economy and the primary source of foreign exchange," President Muizzu stated. "Transforming 'Visit Maldives Year' into an inclusive national success is vital to ensuring that the benefits of this industry reach every Maldivian citizen." To achieve the ambitious targets set for 2027, Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) in coordination with a specialised Stee...