Upcoming events

The Fari Islands Festival is a signature multi-day cultural celebration set across the breathtaking Fari Islands archipelago in the Maldives, bringing together Patina Maldives and The Ritz-Carlton Maldives for a shared island experience of music, art, cuisine, wellness, and nature.

Returning from 13–15 August 2026, the festival transforms the islands into a dynamic cultural stage featuring live music performances, DJ sets, immersive art installations, chef-led dining experiences, and holistic wellness activities. Guests are invited to move seamlessly between venues across the two islands and the vibrant Fari Marina Village, where each space offers a distinct yet connected experience.

Rooted in the concept of “The Home of Island Artistry,” the festival blends contemporary creativity with the natural beauty of the Maldives, offering an elevated program of curated encounters designed to inspire connection, exploration, and shared moments.

A truly immersive destination festival that redefines luxury travel through culture, creativity, and island life.

The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort unveils its culinary programming as part of 2026 Marriott International’s Luxury Dining Series, presented under the theme Across the Table. This year’s edition brings together seven culinary talents, headlined by two-Michelin-starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant from Saint Pierre in Singapore, alongside distinguished chefs from four St. Regis hotels across Asia—The St.Regis Bangkok, The St. Regis Mumbai, The St. Regis Singapore, and The St. Regis Osaka—who collaborate with the culinary artisans of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, together presenting a refined expression of culinary artistry, defined by craftsmanship and modern refinement across Asia.

At The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, guests are invited to experience Across the Table beyond the dining room through the Dine & Unwind Package, where signature culinary moments are paired with thoughtfully 4-night curated stays at the Maldives’ finest address, complemented by the legendary St. Regis Butler Service. Designed to inspire guests to slow the pace, deepen connections and the experience immerses guests in discover the destination’s distinct sense of place, elevating every moment shared at the table.

The following culinary program is presented through a thoughtfully curated series of immersive dining experiences, each designed to celebrate exceptional craftsmanship, cultural storytelling, and the art of gathering across every moment of the journey.

The Art of gathering: August 27

The experience begins along the shoreline in the late afternoon with a curated wine tasting experience, where guests are guided through a selection of wines, exploring the harmony between flavour, structure, and pairing. The experience is enriched by the presence of Thomas Ling, whose deep expertise in beverage culture brings a refined perspective to the art of pairing and craftsmanship.

As dusk sets in, the atmosphere shifts to The Whale Bar, where Brian Gonzalez from The St. Regis Bangkok presents a signature bar takeover, brings his globally refined approach to mixology, shaped by experience across leading European venues and recognized for creating award-winning cocktail programs. Brian reinterprets the legacy of refined cocktail culture, presenting a contemporary and expressive approach to the art of the drink.

The evening culminates at Orientale with an elegant four-course dining experience, where Executive Chinese Chef Chan Chung Shing of Yan Ting at The St. Regis Singapore, with over two decades of experience rooted in the Cantonese culinary tradition and Chef Abdelahad Ahmed present an elevated Japanese cuisine and contemporary interpretation of Pan Asian gastronomy. Each course reflects the distinctive perspectives of the two chefs, brought together through exceptional ingredients, precision, and thoughtful technique. The experience is further elevated through a curated sake pairing journey guided by Thomas Ling, bringing balance and depth to each course.

A mindful contemporary culinary journey: August 28

This chapter unfolds through a thoughtful balance of wellbeing and culinary expression. The experience begins with a guided breathing yoga session led by two Michelin-Starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant, whose long-standing practice as a certified yoga instructor deeply immerses his culinary journey. Blending breathwork and culinary philosophy, the session explores the connection between mindfulness, nourishment, and intentional living through a calming and immersive practice designed to restore both body and mind. Set within an atmosphere of quiet sophistication at The Library, the experience unfolds as a reflective ritual where stillness, breath, and sensory awareness come together in balance. 

This sense of harmony continues at ALBA, where guests are invited into an interactive four-hands cooking class. Here, Chef Emmanuel is joined by Chef Ahmet Özuçucu, Executive Sous Chef at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort, in a dynamic exchange of perspectives—blending Chef Ahmet’s Mediterranean roots and refined culinary approach with Chef Emmanuel’s globally inspired techniques.  Limited to just 10 guests, the experience presents a rare insight into the philosophies and precision behind contemporary culinary craftsmanship.

As evening falls, the experience transitions into a richly layered Maldivian and Indian dining journey as Cargo welcomes Master Chef Taj Mohammed Sha of Sahib Room at The St. Regis Mumbai presenting family-style set menu. Known for his deep respect for regional Indian traditions and mastery of heritage recipes, Chef Taj crafts a menu that celebrates depth of flavour, authenticity, and storytelling. The evening is complemented by cocktail pairings curated by Brian Gonzalez.

Expressions of Seasonality and Culinary Artistry: August 29

The day begins at T•Pan with a curated Omakase lunch led by Chef Takato Kitano, from The St. Regis Osaka whose presence brings a new dimension to the Luxury Dining Series. Having begun his culinary journey as a teppanyaki chef in Osaka, Chef Kitano has developed a distinctive style shaped by both Japanese discipline and European culinary influences. His continued refinement under the guidance of Michelin-recognized talent reflects a growing reputation for precision, curiosity, and a deep respect for ingredient-driven cuisine. 

At ALBA, two Michelin-starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant presents a refined four-course set menu shaped by over two decades of culinary excellence and innovation. A pioneer of modern French cuisine in Asia, his work bridges classical European technique with Asian influences, creating dishes defined by balance, depth, and emotional resonance. This exclusive dining experience offers guests a rare opportunity to engage with one of the region’s most influential culinary voices—bringing the day to an elegant and memorable close.

A farewell with flavor: August 30

The final morning offers a calm and elegant close to the culinary journey. Guests gather for a Mediterranean-inspired breakfast in Alba, where simplicity, freshness, and quality take center stage. Set in a relaxed atmosphere, the experience provides a moment of reflection—bringing together the flavour, conversations, and connections created over the course of the series.

Marriott Bonvoy Moments: August 26-30

Elevating the Luxury Dining Series, The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort presents a one-of-a-kind stay-and-dine journey woven into the program, offering Marriott Bonvoy members privileged access to bid for immersive culinary encounters, behind-the-scenes experiences, and the most sought-after moments of the series.

The experience includes a five-night stay in an Overwater Villa with Pool, complemented by daily breakfast at ALBA and shared return seaplane transfers. At its core is a series of signature culinary moments, including a private six-course dinner with wine pairing curated by two Michelin-Starred Chef Emmanuel Stroobant, alongside a thoughtfully curated dine-around experience across The Whale Bar, Decanter, T•Pan, and Orientale, where each dining destination reveals a new expression of craftsmanship, and collaboration. Guided by storytelling and sensory discovery, the Dine Around Experience celebrates community, flavour, and shared moments across the island. Guests may place bids for exclusive experiences at Marriott Bonvoy Moments page until 17 July, 2026.

“Across the Table reflects our vision of creating meaningful luxury experiences that bring people together through exceptional cuisine, cultural connection, and immersive storytelling,” said Özgür Cengiz, General Manager of The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort. “Through this year’s Luxury Dining Series, we are honored to welcome internationally acclaimed chefs and culinary talents to the Maldives, offering our guests a truly unforgettable journey shaped by Michelin-starred dining, wellness, and the art of gathering.”

Reservations for the Dine & Unwind Package and Luxury Dining Series experiences are now available. Discover more about The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort at stregismaldives.com.

This Mother’s Day, leave the planning behind and give mum the gift she truly deserves—time to relax, reconnect, and create lasting memories with the people she loves. Across the Maldives and Sri Lanka, the Sun Siyam Collection has curated exceptional experiences designed to celebrate mothers in a meaningful way, transforming a simple getaway into an unforgettable occasion.

At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, part of the Luxury Collection, mothers and daughters can enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Newly renovated water villas provide a stylish island retreat, while the renowned Spa by Thalgo offers over 165 treatments, including signature wellness journeys inspired by Polynesian and Far Eastern traditions. Guests can indulge in private hydrotherapy experiences, personalised spa treatments, or even share a memorable first diving experience together through the resort’s female-led diving centre, creating meaningful moments both above and below the water.

At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, within the Privé Collection, every detail is designed to encourage complete relaxation. From bespoke wellness experiences and rejuvenating spa treatments to intimate family dinners beneath the stars, the resort offers a seamless blend of comfort and indulgence. Evenings become even more special with the private Cinema by Moonlight, while guided snorkelling excursions and glass-bottom kayaking adventures provide opportunities to explore the surrounding beauty at a leisurely pace.

Also part of the Privé Collection, Sun Siyam Iru Veli offers a setting where extraordinary moments come naturally. Families can treat mum to a private sandbank dining experience surrounded by endless ocean views or unwind with the resort’s signature Haveeru Harmony – The Iru Veli Ritual, inspired by the tranquillity of island sunsets. Whether through private dining, wellness experiences, or uninterrupted quality time together, every experience is thoughtfully designed to feel personal and memorable.

For those seeking a cultural escape, Sun Siyam Pasikudah in Sri Lanka presents a unique way to celebrate. Guests can accompany the resort’s chef on a visit to a local market before preparing and enjoying a personalised Sri Lankan lunch together. Alternatively, a relaxed beachside bonfire dinner offers the perfect setting for families to gather and celebrate by the ocean.

At Sun Siyam Olhuveli, part of the Lifestyle Collection, the focus is on creating joyful experiences that allow mum to fully unwind. Families can arrange thoughtful surprises before enjoying a range of activities, from rejuvenating treatments at the overwater Ocean Spa to creative sessions at the art studio and hands-on Maldivian cooking classes. For those seeking a little excitement, the resort’s popular jet car experience adds a fun and unforgettable twist to the celebration.

Meanwhile, Siyam World brings a playful and distinctive approach to Mother’s Day. One of its most unique experiences is a sunrise or sunset horseback ride along the beach at the Maldives’ only horse ranch, offering a truly memorable way to experience the island’s natural beauty. Guests can also elevate the celebration with an intimate dinner in the resort’s underground wine cellar, where carefully curated dining experiences are paired with rare vintages and expert recommendations from the sommelier.

Across every destination within the Sun Siyam Collection, the message is simple: celebrate mum with meaningful experiences, genuine relaxation, and quality time spent with loved ones.

To make the occasion even more rewarding, Sun Siyam’s summer offers provide exclusive savings and added benefits across the collection. Available for bookings until 31 August 2026 for stays through 31 October 2027, these offers present the perfect opportunity to transform a Mother’s Day celebration into a truly unforgettable escape.

From May to November, the waters of Hanifaru Bay in the heart-shaped Baa Atoll come alive during manta season — a stunning natural event that reaches its peak from June to October.

A rich bloom of nutrient-dense plankton draws in gentle ocean giants, including manta rays spanning 3 to 5 meters and majestic whale sharks reaching up to 12 meters, adorned with their unique, mesmerizing patterns.

This annual phenomenon offers one of the most awe-inspiring marine experiences in the Maldives. For the best chance to witness these graceful creatures in large numbers, plan your snorkeling excursions around the full moon or new moon phases (ideally 4 days before or after).

Don't miss your chance to swim alongside hundreds of manta rays while staying on our islands this season — it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget.

 Experience one of the world's most prestigious invitation-only surfing events as the 14th Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy returns to the legendary Sultans surf break. The week-long competition brings together internationally renowned surfers to compete across single fin, twin fin, and thruster disciplines, while guests enjoy exclusive surf experiences, coaching sessions, wellness activities, and vibrant island events at Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa. 

One of Australia’s most iconic rock bands, ICEHOUSE, will perform two unforgettable sunset beach concerts on Kandooma’s private island, with attendance limited to just 250 guests. Fronted by creative visionary Iva Davies, ICEHOUSE has been a defining force in Australian music since the late 1970s, blending rock, new wave and electronic influences into a string of timeless hits over more than four decades. 

The concerts form part of a week‑long tropical celebration from 5–12 September 2026, offering music lovers a rare chance to experience the band’s enduring catalogue — including classics like Great Southern Land, We Can Get Together, Can’t Help Myself and Hey Little Girl — in a stunning island setting. 

In addition, frontman Iva Davies will host a special fan Q&A session, giving attendees an intimate opportunity to connect with a true music legend and hear stories behind the band’s creative journey. This exclusive event has now completely sold out, marking a landmark moment for live music in the Maldives. 

Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa has officially launched the second annual Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2026, with the main race set to take place on 18 September 2026 as part of a wider World Wellness Weekend programme from 17 to 20 September 2026 on the natural island of Dhonakulhi in Haa Alifu Atoll. The event brings together destination running, wellness, fitness, and island-inspired lifestyle experiences in one of the Maldives’ most scenic luxury resort settings.

The official partnership signing and launch ceremony, held at Muraka Maalam, Maagiri Hotel in Malé, brought together key event partners to formalise their commitment to the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2026. The event featured the official unveiling of the branding theme, event logo, launch video, and running jersey, all inspired by Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa’s lush tropical vegetation, natural island landscape, and Flora & Fauna. Guests were also introduced to the scenic race routes, designed to highlight the resort’s pristine beaches, island pathways, and tranquil surroundings. The race route spans three distinct terrains: North Point Beach, island trails, and the Deluxe Water Villa jetty.

The initiative is endorsed by Visit Maldives and delivered in partnership with TFG as race partner, with race consultation, registration, timing, and bib services powered by TFG Races. Maldivian joins as transport partner, Coral Glass as content partner, and Sporting Vacanze as agent partner. This partnership reflects continued collaboration between tourism, aviation, media, sports, and lifestyle stakeholders in supporting wellness tourism in the Maldives.

The Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2026 will feature a 10K Challenge and a 5K Fun Run, welcoming both experienced runners and recreational participants. The 5K route will cover one lap of the resort’s scenic course, while the 10K will complete two laps. Participants will receive a race timing bib powered by TFG Races, a partner goodie bag, and the official Flora & Fauna Greenery Run T-shirt. Trophies will be awarded to the top three male and female finishers in both the 5K and 10K categories.

Beyond the race itself, the World Wellness Weekend programme will offer a curated series of activities including shakeout runs, stretching sessions, fitness clinics, group workouts, sunrise and sunset yoga, aqua yoga, sound bath experiences by Naga Healing, wellness experiences, and evening entertainment. The programme has been designed to balance movement, recovery, connection, and celebration throughout the event period.

“Following the success of the historic inaugural edition in 2025, we are delighted to launch the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run in 2026,” said Mohamed Muzaffar Ahmed, Business Development Manager of Lily Hotels. “With the continued endorsement of Visit Maldives Corporation and the support of our partners, this event reflects the growing opportunity to position the Maldives as a destination for luxury wellness, sports, and active travel. Our ambition is to develop the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run into one of the country’s leading luxury destination running events, offering participants an experience that is truly unique to the Maldives.”

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Managing Director and CEO of Visit Maldives Corporation, Ibrahim Shiuree, highlighted the significance of events such as the Maldives Hideaway Resort Run in inspiring greater participation in sports tourism and diversifying demand for visiting the Maldives. He emphasised that initiatives of this nature play an important role in positioning the Maldives not only as one of the world’s leading luxury holiday destinations, but also as an emerging destination for sports, wellness, and active travel. He commended the work behind the event and highlighted the value of continuing such experiences to strengthen the Maldives’ competitiveness in the global travel market.

The event is open to international guests and Maldivian residents, with dedicated participation packages available for participants booking directly with the resort. Packages include a stay at Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa, meal plan benefits, transfer arrangements, and access to selected resort experiences during the event period.

Registration is free. Participants can register online at http://races.3000tfg.com/. For accommodation packages, event details, and more information, visit http://hideawaybeachmaldives.com/.

Gili Lankanfushi Maldives has announced the launch of Plant to Plate: Vegan Recipes from Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, the debut cookbook from  Executive Chef Harinath Govindaraj. Published by St James's House and launching in  October 2026, the beautifully curated coffee-table book marks Chef Hari's 20th year  at the award-winning resort and celebrates his vibrant approach to plant-based  cuisine. 

Available to purchase via the Gili Lankanfushi Maldives website and on the island,  with pre-orders opening soon, Plant to Plate allows guests and food lovers alike to  recreate a taste of Gili at home. More than a cookbook, it is a reflection of Chef Hari's  philosophy of simple, mindful cooking, encouraging readers to embrace seasonal  ingredients, fresh herbs and the joy of creating nourishing meals from nature's  bounty. 

Featuring more than 60 recipes spanning breakfasts, starters, soups, salads, mains,  desserts and signature drinks, the collection showcases Chef Hari's wellness-led approach to food. Highlights include Rainbow Root Ceviche, Gili Garden Green  Gazpacho, Teriyaki Tofu Steak with Coriander Sticky Rice, Pan-Seared Radish  Scallops, Roasted Green Cauliflower with Zesty Couscous and Caramel Pistachio Silk  Cheesecake, alongside treasured family recipes inspired by his South Indian heritage. 

"Plant to Plate is about making beautiful, wholesome food accessible to everyone," says Chef Hari Govindaraj. "The recipes are designed to be practical, flexible and  easy to recreate at home using fresh, seasonal ingredients. I want readers to feel  confident in the kitchen and to understand that some of the most memorable dishes  come from the simplest ingredients." 

A much-loved figure at Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, Chef Hari has spent the past two  decades helping shape the resort's culinary identity. Born in southern India, his  passion for cooking began at an early age and has evolved into a distinctive style  centred around sustainability, wellness and plant-based dining. Today, he oversees  the island's flourishing organic garden, growing herbs, fruits and vegetables used  throughout the resort's restaurants and menus. 

Throughout the book, Chef Hari challenges traditional perceptions of vegan cuisine,  transforming radishes into scallops, tofu into flavour-packed steaks and root  vegetables into vibrant ceviches. His inventive recipes demonstrate how plant-based  cooking can be every bit as satisfying, creative and indulgent as more conventional  dishes. 

Rodrigo Buanafina, General Manager of Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, comments "Chef  Hari has shaped the culinary identity of Gili Lankanfushi for two decades, inspiring  guests through his creativity, passion for sustainability and extraordinary ability to transform simple ingredients into unforgettable dining experiences. The new Plant to  Plate cookbook is a fitting celebration of his remarkable journey with the island and a  wonderful way for guests to take a taste of the Gili experience home with them.” 

Katie Nicholl, international broadcaster and author of the cookbook, comments  “When I first visited Gili Lankanfushi, I was captivated not only by the beauty of the  island but by Chef Hari’s extraordinary food. As a family of meat eaters, we were  amazed by the creativity, flavour and colour of his vegan cuisine. Plant to Plate is not just a book for vegans; it is for anyone who loves good food, enjoys healthy eating  and is curious about discovering exciting new flavours. Hari has an incredible gift for  transforming humble ingredients into something truly special, and his recipes prove  that plant-based cooking can be creative, accessible and, above all, delicious.” 

Mel Yates, Plant to  Plate combines evocative imagery of island life with easy-to-follow recipes designed  for delicious and healthy everyday living. The result is a visually striking keepsake that  transports readers to the shores of Gili Lankanfushi with every turn of the page. Sample recipes are available on request.  

Plant to Plate Vegan Recipes from Gili Lankanfushi Maldives will be available for  $100 USD with 25% of the profits going towards Cancer Society of Maldives (CSM)  

Plant to Plate: Vegan Recipes from Gili Lankanfushi Maldives will be available from October 2026 via the resort's website and on the island. Nightly rates at Gili  Lankanfushi start from £1,129 ($1,440) based on two adults sharing a Villa Suite with  breakfast included. For more information or to book please visit www.gili lankanfushi.com