Journey to Inner Harmony with Nikki
Experience a transformative wellness journey with visiting practitioner Nongluck Chuaychuang (Nikki), an accomplished Holistic Wellness Practitioner, Reiki Master, and Sound Healing Facilitator. Guests can enjoy personalized treatments, including holistic massage, Thai fusion therapy, Reiki, chakra balancing, and sound healing sessions designed to relieve tension, restore emotional balance, and promote deep relaxation
Fari Islands Festival - One Festival. Every Sense.
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 presents: Across the Table — epicurean journeys across Asia
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.
Celebrate Mother’s Day with Unforgettable Escapes Across the Sun Siyam Collection
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.
Giants of the Maldivian Sea
Maldives Manta Rays and Whale Sharks Season
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.
Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2026
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.
Sunset Beach Concert - ICEHOUSE
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 Launches the second edition of Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2026
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/.
Upcoming events
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef: New Water Adventures
Sun Siyam Vilu Reef expands its watersports portfolio with curated ocean experiences that combine adventure and relaxation. Highlights include:
- Private Speedboat Journeys – daily excursions for 1–4 guests exploring hidden gems of Dhaalu Atoll, with 4–5 hour or full-day options and a fresh BBQ lunch.
- Signature Full Day Adventure – explore Vaavu Atoll’s Coral Garden, Turtle Point, and Nurse Shark Point, ending with a secluded sandbank lunch.
- Waves of Adventure & Calmness – combine a private snorkelling or Jet Ski safari with a restorative full-body massage.
Part of the Sun Siyam Privé Collection, these experiences invite guests to connect authentically with the Maldives, balancing exhilarating marine exploration with moments of island serenity.
Game On in Paradise: the return of Campioni Soccer Academy
Back by popular demand, Kuramathi Maldives – available exclusively through Kuoni UK – welcomes the return of Campioni Soccer Academy next summer. Set on the island’s pristine pitch, this two-week programme offers young players aged 4–16 the chance to train in paradise with football legends and UEFA ‘A’ licensed coach Adrian Whitbread.
Week One: 27 July – 1 August 2026 | Stuart Pearce MBE & Adrian Whitbread
Week Two: 3 – 8 August 2026 | Wes Brown & Adrian Whitbread
Each week begins with a beachfront welcome reception, followed by daily training sessions focused on skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Open to all abilities, Campioni blends expert coaching with unforgettable island experiences. Parents can relax across the resort or join the popular midweek Parents’ Game.
Building on the success of 2025, the 2026 edition will also include a special session for local Maldivian football academies.
More than a football camp, Campioni at Kuramathi is where young players learn, grow, and create lasting memories in the Maldives.
Surf Retreat with Nic von Rupp in The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
In July, The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands welcomes acclaimed big wave surfer Nic von Rupp for an exclusive surf retreat set against the Maldives’ peak surf season. Known for his distinctive blend of Portuguese flair and German strength, von Rupp is among the world’s leading big wave surfers, recently crowned champion of the 2025 Tudor Nazaré Big Wave Challenge in Portugal.
This immersive retreat offers guests of all abilities, including adults and children aged 6 and above, the opportunity to learn from a world-class athlete through guided surf coaching across the atoll’s pristine surf points. Designed to be both inspiring and accessible, the experience blends technical instruction with the natural rhythm of the ocean, encouraging participants to build confidence and connection with the sea.
Set within the serene surroundings of the Fari Islands, the retreat combines expert-led surf sessions with the laid-back luxury of island life. The official retreat dates will be announced soon, offering a rare chance to experience world-class surfing in one of the Indian Ocean’s most stunning settings.
Raaraa Pro - Maldives Kiteboarding Extravaganza
Riding with the monsoon winds - 1-10 June, 2026
Raaraa Pro was launched in 2025 as a new kiteboarding series in the Maldives, debuting with an adrenaline-filled slalom twin-tip race format on the turquoise waters of Dhiffushi – The Sunrise Island.
Following its successful inaugural edition, the event will return in 2026 with an expanded program, featuring both twin-tip race and freestyle divisions, bringing together local and international athletes for an unforgettable celebration of kiteboarding.
More than just competition, Raaraa Pro showcases the Maldives as a premier sports tourism destination, blending high-performance action with the vibrant charm of island life.
Burunulite Addu Edition 2026
Burunu Lite – Addu Edition (Ronda Masrace 1447) is a one-day sport fishing tournament held in Maradhoo, Addu City, bringing together local fishing communities, youth participants, and visiting anglers for a high-energy celebration of Maldivian ocean culture.
Taking place during Eid-Al Adha on 28 May 2026, the event combines competitive sport fishing with cultural festivities, community engagement, and sustainability-focused practices aligned with international IGFA standards. Teams compete in a structured points-based format across a full-day offshore fishing challenge, followed by a public weigh-in, awards ceremony, and Eid gala celebration on the harbour.
Beyond competition, Burunu Lite – Addu Edition promotes the Maldives’ Blue Economy vision by highlighting responsible fishing practices, supporting regional tourism development in the southern atolls, and showcasing Addu City as an emerging hub for experiential tourism. All fish caught during the tournament are sold, with proceeds directed to charitable causes, reinforcing the event’s strong community and social responsibility focus.
The programme also serves as a precursor to the international BURUNU BOMA fishing tournament, positioning the Maldives as a growing destination for sport and adventure fishing tourism.
Oceanman Maldives
The Maldives is set to become the ultimate open water swimming destination as Maafushi Island hosts the first-ever Oceanman Swimming event on April 10, 2026. More than just a race, this event promises a once-in-a-lifetime experience, inviting swimmers to glide through the Maldives’ crystal-clear waters in mesmerizing shades of blue and enjoy its warm tropical embrace. Following this iconic bucket-list challenge, participants can explore the adventures and natural beauty that make the Maldives one of the world’s most captivating island destinations. As of this morning, 59 swimmers have registered — 55 international and 4 local participants, with more expected to join soon. The competition will feature various categories, including the 10 KM (15 swimmers), 5 KM (26), 2 KM (14), 2 KM with fins (1), and Oceanteams (3). Swimmers from Russia, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Maldives, the Philippines, Italy, Mexico, the UAE, Germany, Vietnam, and India will be taking part, making it a truly global celebration of open water swimming.
Across Maldives 2026
Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) has announced "Across Maldives 2026," an ambitious underwater record attempt by Maldivian diver Shafraz Naeem. Set to begin on January 23, 2026, the expedition marks the inaugural record attempt of the year for the Visit Maldives Book of Records.
Across Maldives 2026 will see Shafraz attempt two records as he journeys underwater across three atolls. Over 15+ days, he will dive more than 450 kilometres, completing around 55 dives and spending over 90 hours underwater using a Diver Propulsion Vehicle (DPV). The official record categories include:
- Longest distance covered in open ocean on a single dive using a DPV
- Longest distance covered using a DPV within one month
The initiative is designed to introduce a new era of adventure-based storytelling for the Maldives, positioning the nation as an Ocean Nation and a world-class destination for marine, adventure, and experiential tourism. The journey will highlight the Maldives’ unique underwater landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and extraordinary cultural connections to the sea.
Shafraz will make scheduled stopovers across selected islands, supported by partner, hotels and local councils. The expedition will be documented through underwater videography, island visit highlights, interviews, and sustainability-focused storytelling, offering global audiences an immersive view of the Maldives’ marine heritage.
Across Maldives 2026 is led by Visit Maldives with Shafraz Naeem, supported by Ooredoo Maldives as the tech partner and beOnd Airlines as the airline partner.
The expedition marks the beginning of a major national campaign designed to elevate the Maldives’ global visibility through a record-breaking feat that aligns with the country’s long-standing commitment to ocean stewardship.
The Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2025
The Ultimate one-of-a-kind wellness weekend
The Maldives Hideaway Resort Run 2025 wrapped up on the idyllic island of Dhonakulhi, offering guests a one-of-a-kind wellness weekend. From 18–21 September, participants enjoyed 5K, 10K, and Kids’ Dash races alongside yoga, sound healing, and fitness clinics. Evenings came alive with vibrant beachside celebrations, making it a memorable blend of health, community, and paradise.