Hotel Insider - Maldives (Issue No. 14)

Conversation - Mauroof Jameel

Cover Story

- Trailblazing Women in Maldives Tourism

Spotlight

- Discovery of new ecosystem - ‘The Trapping Zone’ - creating oasis of life in the Maldives

CONTENTS

COVER STORY: TRAILBLAZING WOMEN IN MALDIVES TOURISM

In the past half-century since the first resorts opened, the proportion of female workers has stayed well below the labour force participation rate of Maldivian women, which stood at 46% before the pandemic.

CONVERSATION

- MAUROOF JAMEEL

In this interview, we touch on Mauroof Jameel’s views on the interpretation and preservation of tradition in contemporary resort designs and talk about his new book on resort architecture.

UNDP MALDIVES

WORD FROM THE TOP

- CHRISTOPHE ADAM

Christophe Adam is a French national and a leader with a genuine passion for the hospitality industry. His career so far is a testament to his progressive rise in the industry with global exposure - Europe, Asia and Africa.

WORKING WOMEN

- MAHA NASEER

She’s is at the top of her career as a pastry chef. She decided to pursue a career in culinary arts relatively late in her working life, but she went on to enjoy many successful years in the field.

IN THE BOARDROOM

- IBRAHIM ANWAR

The fight to save the birds starts with statistics. Globally, one in eight bird species is threatened, according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. (continued on page 6)

Mr. Ibrahim Anwar, Managing Director of Island Beverages Maldives Pvt Ltd, speaks with Hotel Insider about the company's goal of providing safe and high-quality drinking water to the Maldives.

ON THE COVER: Scientists investigate a new underwater ecosystem in the Maldives.

premier BROKERS PVT LTD

EDITORIAL

Mariyam Athif

Editor

Nashiu Zahir

Managing Editor

Ahmed Naish

Editorial Consultant

Fathimath Sham'aa

Senior Editorial Staff

MARKETING & SALES

Mohamed Shinan

Marketing & Sales Consultant

Mohamed Ahmed

Marketing & Sales Consultant

Ali Kausar

Print Advertising

PRODUCTION

Fathimath Nahuza

Operations Manager

Aishath Hamdha

Administrative Intern

CONTRIBUTORS

Abdulla Muaz

Photo/Multimedia Editor

Munish Athif

Photographer

SPOTLIGHT - DISCOVERY OF NEW ECOSYSTEM - ‘THE TRAPPING ZONE’ - CREATING OASIS OF LIFE IN THE MALDIVES

Scientists on the Nekton Maldives Mission have discovered evidence of ‘The Trapping Zone’ - an oasis of oceanic life observed at 500 metreswhich is likely a previously undescribed ecosystem.

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Season's greetings!

Welcome to a new edition of Hotel Insider, dear readers. We talked to a very senior architect, Mauroof Jameel, in Conversation this time. He played no small role in shaping our landscape quite literally, being one of the key people behind conceptualising Hulhumale’. He shares his thoughts on mega developments like Crossroads and talks about tourism’s role in preserving our heritage. Hotel Insider also had a chat with Ibrahim Anwar, managing director of Island Beverages Maldives, the company behind Taza that everyone knows and loves. We talk about Taza’s commitment to quality, its aspirations, new products, and its work in safeguarding the environment and moving away from plastics.

We talked to Hideaway resort’s GM

Christophe Adam, a hotelier who’s experienced three continents in pivotal roles. We learn about his career and how a remote destination like Hideaway is wellpoised to deliver unparalleled experiences to guests. Lastly, we caught up with Maha Naseer, a phenomenal chef and one of our own. We trace her journey and talk about what it takes for a woman to succeed in the largely male-dominated world of the culinary arts.

Happy reading.

Mariyam Athif Editor

bit.ly/3GRegXX

If you have missed our previous issue please find a digital copy from the links below.

Conversation

Mauroof Jameel

Many would recognise Mauroof (Mai) Jameel as one of the minds behind Hulhumale’ and the co-author of a beloved book ‘Coral Stone Mosques of the Maldives’. In this interview, we touch on his views on the interpretation and preservation of tradition in contemporary resort designs. We also have a chat about his forthcoming book on resort architecture, the preservation of architectural heritage, the potential for conflict between development, community and environment, and more in this edition of Conversation.

Hotel Insider: In your new book ‘Maldivian Resort Architecture’, you talk about our fast-disappearing architectural heritage. This is the price of modernisation, or maybe a particular view of modernisation. What role do you see resorts playing in preserving such heritage?

Mauroof Jameel: It’s partly because of modernisation. The other factor is our culture – we have one that easily discards the old and embraces new ways and things very readily. Also, tourism is a double-edged sword. Certain traditions get revived because of tourism – an example would be our small-scale industry of coconut thatching. Tourism did resuscitate

quite a lot of cultural heritage, but we can’t expect this to remain the case. Already, resorts are embracing fake thatch, for instance.

Hotel Insider: I also wanted to talk about your resort designs, which seem very much inspired by our culture and traditions.

Mauroof Jameel: Thank you. When I did Ari Beach Resort in the 90s and wanted to design bungalows on the beach, I found out that the first traditional structures on our island beaches were the boathouses. So, I made these A-frame structures that paid homage to those native structures.

From then on, I thought about how to interpret our maritime culture in my designs, especially on water bungalows. Our culture

goes beyond lacquer objects or coral-stone carvings. We have a four-thousand-year-old history. And I thought our maritime culture is actually one that should get more recognition because we are a maritime civilisation. We have all its elements – our own calendars, way of living, literary forms like raivaru and bandhi, even our food, these are all related to our maritime culture. So, I was very interested in interpreting this from an architectural perspective and incorporating it into my designs.

Hotel Insider: Tradition and luxury sometimes go hand in hand – your designs, Sappe’s (Mohamed Shafeeg’s) and Sonu’s (Shivdasani) fall into this camp. Do you see this marriage of tradition with luxury continuing?

Mauroof Jameel: Sappe’ has done it very successfully in many resorts, and of course Sonu in Soneva Fushi, and the architect Murad Ismail in Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru. It’s an interpretation of our culture to suit the requirements of a luxury brand. I think luxury, tradition and culture can and need to co-exist, especially because of the modern traveller who is very much attuned to these things.

Hotel Insider: What would be a recent example of this?

Mauroof Jameel: Nautilus Maldives by Sappe is one. If we go back a little further there’s Soneva Fushi, and even Nika Island Resort.

Hotel Insider: Every resort development is a negotiation with the environment, with our desire for profit and safeguarding our ecology and community coming into conflict. Yet we've seen how tourism spurred environmental conservation in the Maldives. And the resorts are where most of the really ambitious ideas, like going fully solar for instance, take place first. What are your thoughts on this?

Mauroof Jameel: Every development doesn’t have to be in conflict with those elements, it just happens to be that way because of our attitude. I think resort developments can help reverse or bring back what we’re losing. For example, many resorts are making efforts of growing and conserving

coral after bleaching events. Tourism does offer the opportunity to enhance our ecology and community, it’s just not happening in many instances because of our materialist attitudes.

Sustainability is the only way forward. We have to switch to renewables and we need to manage our waste properly. It is happening in many resorts but not enough.

Hotel Insider: We’ve seen how that can be possible – Soneva properties for instance, and also Six Senses, do a lot of their own recycling and sort their waste. There are models that can be implemented on the islands nearby and on a larger scale.

Also, in the book you express your anxieties about environmental sustainability – that it’s not foregrounded enough, or perhaps it’s not part of the DNA at all in new developments.

Mauroof Jameel: The anxieties towards creating fake islands and selling fake nature to cater to an ever-growing global market is something worrying if you think of the future. I wonder how our islands can cater to the big geopolitical masses of China and India, the needs of their travellers – we’d be exhausting all our own resources trying to appease them. I think that is where the anxiety comes from – how far can we go on like this? We need to have some reserve of our natural resources for the future. And I think the next ten years of tourism development will be crucial to us in this respect.

Hotel Insider: And now we’re going to see the number of resort islands eclipse the number of inhabited ones. In a way that’s good because I think it means there are more islands focussed solely on generating economic surpluses.

Mauroof Jameel: I see it as a sign that we are heading towards overconsumption of our precious islands. That is why I think we need to save our resources for the future – keep as many of our islands protected. So, every time we think about developing a new island or a group of islands, we have to think about keeping our natural reserve as well.

Hotel Insider: Thank you very much Mai.

"We have a four-thousandyear-old history. And I thought our maritime culture is actually one that should get more recognition because we are a maritime civilisation."

Haveeree

Malé

Maldives

habeysmaldives@gmail.com

The Flight of the Sea Birds

Globally, one in eight bird species is threatened, according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, including some of the best-known migratory species.

Why conservation matters

The fight to save the birds starts with statistics. Globally, one in eight bird species is threatened, according to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List, including some of the best-known migratory species. Many bird populations are currently declining worldwide, with 1,200 species facing extinction in the next century. Birds contribute to human health, improve agricultural production, generate millions of dollars in ecotourism revenue, and serve as indicators of environmental well-being, including biodiversity value and habitat restoration success.

The Lesser Noddy, locally called kurangi, is a protected bird of the Maldives under Act 4/93 of the Environment Protection and Preservation Act. They are found abundantly across the isles, especially in the Northernmost Atoll of the Maldives –Ihavandhippolhu, part of Haa Alif Atoll.

The whole of Ihavandhippolhu is listed as an Important Bird Area (IBA) by BirdLife International - a global partnership of nongovernmental organisations that strives to conserve birds and their habitats. These birds visit the atoll predominantly during the northeast monsoon (Iruvai) season which lasts from December to March/April.

Lesser Noddies have a significant role to play in the ecological and economic make-up of the country. Feeding flocks of Lesser Noddies are used by Maldivian pole-and-line fishers to locate tuna schools. The noddies also bring in large quantities of marine-derived nutrients in the form of guano onto the roosting islands, which enhances productivity of both island flora and the adjacent coral reef.

“All Lesser and Brown Noddies in the Maldives appear to be nonbreeding birds, so they must breed elsewhere in Indian Ocean. However, during Iruvai, when the waters around Haa Alifu Atoll become particularly productive, we observe colonies of Lesser

Noddies due to this super-abundance of food supply,” says Aishath Farhath Ali, President of Maldives Wetlands Foundation, who is a keen Ornithologist.

Effective conservation measures require knowing where and how birds migrate, and what dangers they face during migration.

Tagging birds with high tech

Technological advances are providing new insights into bird migration and showing that it is more complex and wonderful than scientists and conservationists ever imagined.

Under a Global Environment Facility Small Grants Programme (GEF-SGP) in Maldives supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), NGO FC Frigator from Haa Alif Hoarafushi Island is undertaking an initiative to conserve the seabird colonies and roosting sites of Lesser Noddies in Ihavandhippolhu Atoll. They are tracking the migration of the birds via satellite transmitters

and identifying breeding colonies. A total of eight Lesser Noddies have been tagged thus far.

There has been no previous tracking of seabirds from the Maldives, and only three published tracking studies conducted of noddies, even though there are five species worldwide with wide distributions.

“These new and constantly improving technologies are key aids for learning about Lesser Noddies and protecting our migratory birds in the face of habitat loss, pollution and other threats, while also exploring the potential for ecotourism returns,” said Hassan Hussain, one of the Founders of FC Frigator.

Birding across borders

Bird tagging technology is allowing the group to create a sequenced record of the ebb and flow of the Lesser Noddy migration. It can detect their precise locations without thei r having to be recaptured.

The main overnight roosting site of Lesser Noddies in the Maldives is Gallandhoo Island, in Ihavandhippolhu Atoll. Gallandhoo, together with nearby islands of Medhafushi and Govvafushi, are major feeding ground for this species.

One of the Lesser Noddies tagged in Gallandhoo Island by FC Frigator on March 25, 2022, left Maldives on April 2, to arrive on Cousine Island of Seychelles (known for its nesting colonies of Lesser Noddies) on April 10.

That is 2,400 km covered in 8 days!

Data collected from bird tagging can help researchers better understand the birds’ ecology, biology and movement.

“The results of this research would be used to raise awareness of the importance of seabird populations in the Maldives and promote monitoring and conservation of noddies in the breeding and nonbreeding seasons. We have also been contacted by the team of Ornithologists in Cousine Island,

Seychelles, who have a long-standing ringing effort on Noddies. It would be interesting to see if any of the rung Noddies from Seychelles does end up in Gallandhoo too,” continued Farhath, who is also the technical coordinator for the FC Frigator project with GEF-SGP and UNDP.

Protecting and reversing the declines of migratory birds is imperative to advancing sustainability goals. The successful implementation of such efforts demonstrates that bird conservation can further development, sustainability, and conservation objectives.

Photos: Hassan Saajin - Zuvaan Masveriya

Map courtesy: FC Frigator

In the Boardroom

Ibrahim Anwar

Mr. Ibrahim Anwar, Managing Director of Island Beverages

Maldives Pvt Ltd, speaks with Hotel Insider about the company's goal of providing safe and high-quality drinking water to the Maldives.

The interview highlights the company's strengths and key areas of focus in the coming years. Furthermore, it sheds light on the importance the company places on environmental preservation and its efforts to become eco-friendly.

Hotel Insider: Could you talk about your main areas of focus for the coming year?

Ibrahim Anwar: Let me start by saying that IBM is now a teenager, having passed through the most critical stages of development. Nonetheless, I believe we must continue to grow in order to stand tall in this industry. The most significant change that has taken place at IBM is that we are moving towards being a more independent company whereby we are in the early stages of walking alone. This is a huge challenge for me because I am the first full time MD appointed by the government to run this company. Thus, taking advantage of this opportunity, I believe

that now’s the time to run this company autonomously. Our primary focus in the coming years will be to diversify our product portfolio because the challenges of dealing with a single product line are vast. We are dominant in the greater Male’ region because our manufacturing & distribution fleet is based in the capital city. However, due to the geographical dispersion of islands in the Maldives it is not feasible for us to transfer water to outer islands considering the narrow profit margin. Moving forward, expanding our portfolio to include fast moving beverages which can be bundled with water will be one of our main objectives.

Having a reliable team is undoubtedly the most important aspect of any successful business. I am proud to say that we have the largest, most efficient, and dedicated distribution fleet in the Greater Male’ region. Due to the scarcity of space in

the retail sector, the distribution of water becomes a challenge to our team since the customer anticipates express delivery which is our main target. We have partnered with MIFCO to supply their canned tuna products alongside ours to capitalize on the strengths of our industry leading distribution fleet. So, what I envisage is establishing similar partnerships with other government and private companies as a delivery partner to distribute their fast-moving food-related products to the customers along with ours. Being an ISO certified company entails a significant amount of responsibility. Given the nature of our operations, continuously maintaining the quality and level of services provided is a challenge. However, to keep our customers satisfied, we are frequently working on creating and implementing new strategies for the improvement of our services.

The environment is undeniably very

important to all of us. It is the moral duty of each and every individual to keep it safe. Being in an industry that only produces single-use plastic comes with additional responsibilities. That is why, we have launched a separate campaign called "TaZa Veshi" through which numerous awareness programs will be held in the capital city and the outer islands, supporting us in our efforts to reduce the environmental effects caused by single-use plastic.

Our aim is to be able to reach every single household in the Maldives. This can be achieved by the diversification of our product portfolio and by increasing our existing island agents operating as our business partners, supplying our water to the entire country.

Hotel Insider: How do you ensure that the water we are drinking is safe and hygienic?

Ibrahim Anwar: Maintaining a high

"Maintaining a high level of quality has been a top priority since the inception of TAZA. We have ISO 9001, ISO 22000, and HACCP certifications from management to the manufacturing process."

level of quality has been a top priority since the inception of TAZA. We have ISO 9001, ISO 22000, and HACCP certifications from management to the manufacturing process. Obtaining these standards is not an easy task. It is subjected to quarterly audits to ensure that our processes meet the required standards.

Focusing on our production process, our source water is the pre-treated water provided by MWSC which goes through a 2nd stage reverse osmosis system. The water is purified further, and this pre-treated source water is passed through an ultraviolet purification system, which removes 99.99% of harmful microorganisms. We chose UV disinfection, a physical process, over chemical disinfection methods because it has no residual effect on aquatic and human life. Following UV disinfection, the water is routed through an ozonation system for additional disinfection, flavour enhancement, and odour removal. Just after ozonation, a proprietary blend of minerals is dosed to adjust the taste of the water to the preferences of the Maldivian customers. Finally, it is fed into a three-stage microfiltration system that removes extra fine particles smaller than 0.5 microns. Particles that cannot be seen visually are thus filtered out and removed.

Our 5G and glass returnable bottles go through a multi-step disinfection process that includes washing and sterilizing with high-quality disinfectants. We also pay close attention to packaging to avoid external contamination. Since our raw materials are imported from other countries, we ensure that the materials directly used in our end products, such as bottle caps, go through a fully automated process, with no physical contact from production to packing to unpacking at our facility.

It doesn't stop there. We make sure that each batch of water delivered to our customers meets the ISO standards. To ensure this, each batch is subjected to rigorous chemical and microbiological testing both on-site and at an external laboratory. Distribution begins only after we receive approval from the quality assurance team. Considering these factors, I cannot agree with the assertion that all water tastes the same.

Hotel Insider: We are in a transition phase and are moving away from plastic. What are your thoughts on this, and

how are you helping us move towards a greener future?

Ibrahim Anwar: As mentioned earlier, we do understand the damage that plastic is causing to the environment and intend to gradually move to other alternatives. It’s not an easy task given the geographic characteristics of the Maldives. The alternatives are prohibitively expensive, not only in terms of materials but also in terms of logistics. As a result, we launched the 'Taza Veshi' campaign, which will allow us to take an active role in preserving and protecting our environment. The most recent initiatives we have implemented are the introduction of returnable glass bottles of 0.5 litre, 1 litre and 19 litre, which is the Taza 5G bottles.

Hotel Insider: You’re supplying glass bottles to resorts, right? Is it with water?

Ibrahim Anwar: Yes, we supply returnable glass bottles and yes, it does come with water.

Hotel Insider: Is it cheaper for them than having their own RO bottling plant?

Ibrahim Anwar: It is possible that having their own RO bottling facility may be considerably cheaper for them. However, ensuring the safety and quality of the water is a big part of our identity. As an ISO certified company, we adhere to certain internationally recognized quality standards which ensure that the water we supply to our customers are of the highest quality.

The returned water bottles are washed and disinfected prior to being refilled. The stages of washing & disinfecting are a thorough process which emphasizes on the extensive measures taken to ensure the safety and quality of water. Thus, having their own semi-automated plant in the resort may be inexpensive, the question is whether it will ensure the quality and safety of drinking water.

Hotel Insider: Where do you see the company in five years?

Ibrahim Anwar: My vision for IBM is to make this company the leading beverage company in the Maldives, supplying and distributing various types of beverages and other fast-moving food items throughout the Maldives. A company that has tripled its assets, sales, and profits. Furthermore, my goal is to make IBM one of the most respected and prestigious companies in the country, attracting talented and experienced employees.

"Our 5G and glass returnable bottles go through a multi-step disinfection process that includes washing and sterilizing with high-quality disinfectants."

Word from the top

Christophe Adam

General Manager, Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa and The Signature Collection by Hideaway. Christophe Adam is a French national and a leader with a genuine passion for the hospitality industry. His career so far is a testament to his progressive rise in the industry with global exposure - Europe, Asia and Africa.

Successively he rose through different roles on the strength of talent and potential from operations, marketing and executive roles. He had the opportunity to work with world-class hotels and resorts such as Relais & Châteaux, Barrière, Accor Hotels, LUX* Resorts & Hotels and others. Hotel Insider has a chat with him about his work and the beautiful resort he oversees.

Hotel Insider: Tell me a bit about yourself and your career.

Christophe Adam: I’m a French native with two degrees in international hotel management and business management. The hospitality industry is not in my family's bloodline, I wasn’t born into it. And even while studying hospitality, I was unsure of what I wanted to do or where I wanted to go. However, from the moment I set foot in hotels to work, various leaders immediately made an impact on me. At that point, I knew how I wanted to spend the rest of my career: to lead amazing teams, take care of and meet wonderful guests. Since then, I have not looked back, and I know that finding a job you're so passionate about is rare nowadays.

I have had the opportunity to experience a wide range of roles in this industry during my 27 years of experience, including consulting, hotel management as well as being a director of sales & marketing. As a passionate hotelier, I have earned a reputation as someone who is driven by challenge, undeterred by obstacles,

Word from the Top

and dedicated to furthering excellence. Hotel Insider: Now, could you talk to us about Hideaway and how it stands out from other luxury hotels here.

Christophe Adam: Hideaway has been acknowledged as one of the most beautiful natural island resorts in the Maldives. Our objective now is to stay at the top of that list and, at the same time, to keep on being recognised as one of the very best. Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa deserves to take its place among the best because it is indeed a unique resort; it offers world-class refinements in an enchanting setting, an exceptional cuisine, a cutting-edge spa, a bespoke welcome and service, a large pool of activities and finally because of the human touch that sets us apart. Hotel Insider: Hideaway is fairly remote, and a little hard to get to compared to a lot of resorts. How do those affect its desirability?

Christophe Adam: Hideaway is a luxury private island where our team members are dedicated to tailor your dreams and make your stay in the Maldives unforgettable. Remote destinations and luxury private escapes are becoming increasingly popular and accessible due to several other trends. First, these days, people need to get away from it all – technology, advertising, clocks, cars, and crowds – not just away from home. Secondly, today’s seasoned travellers want a unique experience and one that’s sustainable and socially responsible, two things that remote destinations often cover well. And this trend will continue to grow as travel to remote destinations becomes logistically smoother and more affordable than ever before. Hideaway offers one of the best balances of laidback luxury. While undoubtedly five-star, you can still kick off your shoes and chill out on this private island paradise. To explore, your butler can whizz you around in a buggy, or you can take your own bike for a ride. Offering lot of privacy, Hideaway is the place to go for an ultimate relaxation and a perfect escape with your love ones, your friends or family. Hideaway is a God-given beautiful island that deserves to be protected and preserved.

Hotel Insider: We're still seeing growth

in the tourism sector, new resorts continue to crop up. It has to slow down at some point though, when do you see this happening? When will things settle down in the resort sector?

Christophe Adam: Considering the importance of tourism development for the Maldives and challenges confronted, sustainable innovation is needed to improve the positive impacts of tourism while lowering its negative impacts on the environment, society and culture.

Hoteliers have realised that competitiveness and sustainability of the tourism industry go hand-in-hand as the quality of tourist destinations is strongly influenced by their natural and cultural environment and their integration into the local community. One can achieve sustainable tourism without compromising on the level of service. Such practices can be implemented while maintaining a high level of tourist satisfaction and ensuring a meaningful experience to tourists, raising their awareness about issues surrounding sustainability and promoting sustainable practices.

Hotel Insider: How do you see the resilience of Maldives tourism in light of the shocks it has experienced? What do you think is likely for us in the near future?

Christophe Adam: Over the past couple of years, the Maldives faced unprecedented uncertainties on the international front due to the continuing COVID-19 pandemic and the Russo-Ukrainian crisis. The Maldives has demonstrated resilience, adaptability and provides a safe, easy, low-risk environment like no other in the world thus making the country a trusted brand worldwide.

Rebuilding the tourism sector in a safe, equitable, and climate-friendly manner is crucial, to ensure that tourism again serves as a source of decent jobs, stable incomes, and protects the cultural and natural heritage for the coming generation.

Hotel Insider: Thank you, Christophe.

"Hideaway is a luxury private island where our team members are dedicated to tailor your dreams and make your stay in the Maldives unforgettable."

Cover Story

Trailblazing Women in Maldives Tourism

Women account for just 10% of the tourism workforce. Maldivian women make up only half of that number. In the past half-century since the first resorts opened, the proportion of female workers has stayed well below the labour force participation rate of Maldivian women, which stood at 46% before the pandemic.

Societal norms and gender stereotypes erected longstanding barriers that discouraged women from working in hospitality. Conservative cultural attitudes dissuaded parents from consenting to a career in tourism. And the ‘one-island, one-resort’ concept entailed living away from home and family for long periods.

But these barriers are starting to fall. Or at least seem less formidable. More women are joining the industry, thriving and rising to the top.

As part of a series of talkshows dubbed ‘Tourism Upbeat’ to celebrate the 50th anniversary of tourism, the tourism ministry gathered together four trailblazing women who succeeded in the male-dominated resort industry and forged a path for others to follow. At a lively and informative discussion, these four role models spoke about overcoming challenges and urged more young women to join the industry. They answered questions from an audience of school children curious to learn about working on a resort island and the prospects for a career in tourism.

These are their stories and their advice in

their words.

On the Maldives tourism industry

Mariya: We’ve always been innovators. Fifty years ago when the pioneers started in the industry, it was very new. They sacrificed a lot and I’m very proud to say that we have been innovators in the industry. This product can be imitated in other countries, you’ve seen now in Bahamas, Mauritius, Seychelles. You can see the product but the kind of operation we have in the resorts, it’s very different. We are self-sustained. We operate the resort as a small country basically.

So for me, working in the tourism industry is an amazing thing. I am contributing to a luxury product unlike any other. It can look the same, operationally or what we do behind the scenes or at the front can never be imitated because the kind of operation that we have here and the things that we do here are very different.

That’s how I view this industry. It’s not only a luxury, five-star, award-winning industry for tourists but it’s also right there at our doorstep. Those [resort workers] who are

Left to Right: Sara Moosa, M. Director, Crown Company, Crown & Champa Resorts, Mariya Shareef, Resort Manager, Summer Island Resort, Fathimath Shaazleen, Resort Manager, Naladhu Private Island, Azhoora Ahmed, Inspire Manager, Soneva Namoona

coming in from Europe, Australia and Asian countries, they are also leaving behind their families, friends, and for them to go back, it’s even more challenging. It might take one year before they can go back.

For us, it’s ours, we live here. We can go there much easily. We have opportunities. It’s much easier for locals. Your island is just next door. Some resorts allow you to go stay overnight. For us, we let them go once a week sometimes, or once a month. It’s easier and it’s more accessible. We have to take pride in it. So for me working in this industry even if it’s one or two years, 10 years, 20 years, gives me so much pride to sit here and say I’ve contributed to this amazing award-winning industry.

On the perks of the job

Shaazleen: This is a very prestigious industry and the pride and prestige that comes from working in the industry is very important. Meeting people from different cultures and making friends from all over the world. Not just that, working in the industry, we meet people from different parts of the country as well. We make lots of friends. And it’s not just the friends you make at school that counts. When you start working at a resort, you are accepted as a family. The people working with you becomes your family because you’ll be spending a lot of time there. That creates a lot of interesting bonds, new relationships. And opens you up to new interests.

As mentioned, it’s self-sustained and it’s like a local island. Everything is done at the resort, including accommodation and food. And if there are 200 to 800 staff, there should be some things to keep them entertained as well. It’s not just work. There are recreational activities for those who are interested. I think right now a football pitch is a must, right? Not just any but a nice turf ground. It’s a priority at resorts now to provide recreational facilities and activities. There are earning opportunities as well. For me, any team member I have worked with has been an inspiration. Any GM or department head who has guided me, within the resort or people I haven’t personally met but heard about, has been an inspiration.

The other thing is because you are working with people from all over the world, you get exposed to the world, and different cultures. And you start picking up on trends. And if you

are joining the workforce for the first time, you’d be glad to know that this is an industry where you can save a lot of money. That’s probably one of the reasons that a lot of expats come here, not just the prestige but you attain a very different skillset. Of course when you go back after working for a couple of years, what you get in return in terms of finances is also considerable. And for anyone working in the industry that’s a very good thing.

In short, it’s a beautiful life. You make friends for life, pursue your interests, you get to play your favourite sports, you get to save money and continue your studies.

On pursuing passions

Azhoora: There are many departments at a resort and a lot of different skills are needed - back of house even IT, engineering, photography, videography. So reflecting on my journey, I would say, always be on the look out for opportunities, you can volunteer in other departments as well. All resorts now have cross-exposure opportunities but you won’t get it by just doing your job and then going back. You have to look for it and ask for it. This way, you’ll be able to find what you are really interested in.

There are very cool skills you can learn even if you don’t want to build a career on that. For example, horticulture techniques, all resorts have agriculture. Or you can learn pastry arts. Even if I don’t want to work as a chef, I can go and learn those skills. If you want to go take up another career later in life, it’s very easy to learn transferrable skills while working at a resort because you have all these departments and teams who are your friends. They will give you the opportunity to learn.

On starting a family

Shaazleen: I have a unique story. Twenty years ago, when I joined my first resort, the resort had been running for 15 years, but I was was one of two girls to work there. At that time, even if women joined, they went to work at resorts close to Malé so they can come back home after their workday.

In my case, I was very fortunate to have people accept me, maybe because of my personality.

Of course I was very hardworking, helpful, and very curious to learn which may have helped in getting opportunities. And then when I became RM, that was the time I was

On the right: Trailblazing women in tourism share their insights and experiences with the audience.

starting a family, so I had to take a break. I worked until I was eight months pregnant. And then I had to take a break.

When I wanted to come back to the industry after having my son, I wouldn’t say it was easy. I did several interviews and got rejected many times. But there were a couple of companies who said yes, because I just had one condition, I wanted to take my son with me. That became an issue, for some companies, maybe because it wasn’t the norm to have a female resort manager carrying her child around. I think a mom and her oneyear-old gives you a different picture. But it could also be that the resort environment wasn’t ready to cater to a young child living there full-time. What if he gets sick, what if something happens, the hiring managers asked me. But I was very fortunate because some companies said yes, and Soneva Jani was the first.

When Soneva offered me the job, my first question was can I take my son, and they said, ‘of course you can.’ So thankfully, he spent the first five years of his life living in a resort.

I think that was a defining moment for the whole industry. I truly believe that. It’s because I got this opportunity, now I am able to have that flexibility even at my current role. So I think the opportunities are coming. Yes, the progress is slow. It’s amazing to see a lot of inspiring women working in the industry in high positions, just waiting to break the mould and coming forward and being equal to us, even higher. That’s something we’ve always wanted to see.

A few years ago, I remember we did a video about women working in the industry in 2017 or 2018. At that time women were just four per cent. Given our population, I think that’s a shame. That’s why we wanted to spread the word and make sure it goes up. Right now maybe it’s seven percent. If you compare that to now and the workforce has increased as well. I think it is remarkable to have that progress. There are more opportunities opening up and I think, there’ll be more if we push forward with our agendas, if I may say so.

Mariya: Right now, we are less than five per cent, local women in the industry. Imagine if five per cent more join, or wishful thinking,

20 per cent more, how easy we’ll be able to break the glass ceiling, right? I think you need to come join us. We are here to guide you, listen to you, this industry is yours. We are looking after this for you for now.

On women who wear the hijab

Mariya: It’s very acceptable now. What you wear is your personal choice. As far as I know, most resorts, most hotels, don’t care about what you wear. We are very accepting. I just want to tell you about this one instance. We had a girl who joined us when she was 18. she wasn’t wearing hijab when she joined. She joined as a waiter. I’m very proud of her. She worked as a waiter for one year. She joined Front Office and then she came to me and asked, Marie I feel like I need to wear hijab, I said why not. I said this is amazing. We need a diverse culture. We need to be accepting. I changed the uniform. Now in Front Office in Summer Island, and I’m sure a lot of others,

you have a lot of girls wearing hijab. No problems at all. None whatsoever.

On increasing women’s participation

Mariya: There are opportunities, regardless of what you are studying. If you are studying science, you can become a marine biologist, an engineer, working in IT. if you are interested in numbers, you can work in accounts, finance, sales, revenue management, reservations, so many options are there. If you are interested in arts, come work with us as a musician, if you can sing, come sing, if you can paint, come paint. We need artists, we need photographers. We need all your skills. So there are no barriers to step in. It’s up to you. You have to be curious enough. Experience it. You know, take the time. After school, don’t just jump into it, I know, you need education, I support it. I’ve been studying my entire life as well. But experience it. In other countries, before they start

their degrees, students take a gap year, it’s very common, you do something else, you volunteer. Sometimes you don’t even get paid but you get the experience. After you leave school, come join us for one year. Consider it a gap year. We will guide you. Do something. If you don’t know what you are interested in, or what your skills are. We will help you. There are no barriers. As a local, as a girl, as a boy. Doesn’t matter.

On challenges faced as a woman

Shaazleen: For me, the biggest challenge was leaving behind my family. Being at the age you are now, and starting in a completely new place. I didn’t have anyone, apart from another girl who joined with me. We were the only two friends and there was no one else unfortunately. For us to go into a very maledominated environment, it was intimidating. For me, it wasn’t in a bad way. I don’t want you to feel taken aback, but it took us

some time to warm up to the team, find our footing. To be comfortable walking into the staff canteen while people are staring at you. I think that happens when you are on the road too, but this was on a smaller scale, so you are more self-conscious, right? That was the main thing. But once I started working with the team and how they accepted me as part of the team, as part of the family was amazing and that helped me to continue my career.

Every time you move from one grade to another or one school to another, you just have a few friends following you, you have that feeling, right? For us, it’s still the same even now. When you are moving from one island to the next. A few months back, I changed my job. And for me to start again with a new team, it was a bit hard to break the ice and to get into the groove.

The best lesson I’ve learned is that working in the industry is that you get the confidence to present yourself, and not being afraid to initiate conversation, making yourself approachable to others, that’s how you create opportunities. So for me, it was challenging in the beginning. And also, even in your career, moving to the next level will be a hurdle. It will be your willingness and hand work and it will be you trying to prove to yourself more than anyone else that you can do it, and for

that you need passion. We use this word a lot. To move yourself forward you have to have the willingness to learn and develop yourself and share the knowledge and skills. Make sure that you continue that cycle. And you move unsteadily. Every time you take the next step, that’s a change, and you get adjusted to your new role, and then you start learning. It’s a continuous cycle. But keeping the excitement and making sure that you work towards it, that’s how you overcome it.

On maternity leave

Shaazleen: There is paid maternity leave in the industry. Right now the extended maternity leave is only mandatory for the civil service. The six-month one, but we have 60 days leave in all the industries. I think, I hope, that this is something the industry will start taking on. When I had a baby, as I mentioned, I worked until I was eight months. I got only three weeks break before I had my baby. When I came home, I had two months maternity, one month paid leave and one month no-pay. I was thinking I would have the baby, get myself organised and go back to work after four months but what I realised is, it’s such a beautiful moment, and when you have a newborn, they become the whole world

On

so even though I was excited for re-starting my career, I wanted to enjoy this time. So for me it wasn’t enough time. I decided to quit the job and stayed with the baby for one year. I started looking for jobs when he was eight or nine months old because I knew the process would take a couple of months.

At the moment the paid maternity leave is 60 days and there’s a paid annual leave, and there are ways that you can accumulate days off. But I hope the tourism industry will follow the lead from other industries. And I think it takes one company to start doing that and slowly that will become the norm. That’s what we hope.

On taking the plunge

Azhoora: I would say always look out for opportunities. When I first started working at a resort, I was in the water sports area, a very male-dominated area and actually, I was the

Above: The minister of tourism Dr Abdulla Mausoom is in attendance as well as several schoolgoers.

the right: The minister snaps a selfie with a schoolgoer at the Tourism Upbeat event held to commemorate women's success in hospitality.

only girl there. It was intimidating at first but you know, as we’ve been saying, they start to make you feel like a part of the family, they teach you new skills, so I always tried to find out how and where I can learn new things, that’s the most important thing to become a leader. I was in surfing but I was helping other teams, like snorkelling, helping them guide guests into the water, learning wind surfing for example. Learning new things and helping your team will take you a long way in being a leader.

Shaazleen: The best way would be to look at internship opportunities. That way you are not committing to a specific team. You are committing to a time period. So let’s say, as Azu said, take some time to look through and find interesting brands and look around. If they haven’t got anything, write to them and say I’m interested. A lot of times they won’t be advertising internship opportunities. What I have seen is that we would get an email from someone and we would say this is interesting, let’s go ahead and give this opportunity.

So let’s say you are committing to a year, maybe six months. And during that time, we would ask, which areas interest you. Depending on your areas of interest, we will guide you. If you completely have no clue but want to explore the opportunities, then we

will take you through everything.

We’ve had three interns that came and all three wanted to be in the front office and they didn’t want to do anything else. We were taking them for one year so we said let’s not limit yourselves. Let’s send you to different departments and you know, after three months, none of them worked at the front office. Two of them became chefs. And one worked at sales and marketing.

Mariya: There are lots of training programmes, and as Shazley said, there are annual apprenticeship programmes at some resorts as well. A lot of resorts, when they get individual students coming in with interest, we actually customise it to your needs. So if you say I just want to stay three months, we will do it for you. It’s very ad hoc and depends on the demand as well. It’s very easy. As we’ve been saying, email us, and we can guide you.

Azhoora: Now there’s going to be a lot of competition. You are all going to write to us. But when you do, remember to bring in your passion. Tell them how keen you are because we can see it. Remember to include your CV.

Sara: The most important thing is, you need to have the determination and the willingness to work that’s the most important thing to join this industry or any other. You don’t necessarily need to have certain

grades or skills but if you have the interest, join; you can learn, be exposed, at least until you figure out which field or department that interests you. And as we have touched upon, we have different departments; it’s not just front office, F&B and kitchen, there’s water sports, engineering etc. And as Marie mentioned, it’s a self-sustainable country so there’s everything. So if you are interested and willing to work, and put in the effort, you will be successful and they will teach you the skills and the knowledge to move forward in your career. There are so many resorts and so many opportunities available so it’s a path forward for you.

You need to write about what interests you and you have to make yourself attractive so that you can stand out and show your willingness to learn.

Shaazleen: I would say if you are interested in joining the industry, don't wait for your dream job. Be willing to start anywhere. From humble beginnings, even if you start with an internship. Even if it’s not a supervisory or managerial levels, be open to start from the bottom. There are opportunities to move up. We are ready to help, advise and mentor you.

Maha Naseer, is at the top of her field as a pastry chef. She decided to pursue a career in culinary arts relatively late in her working life, but she went on to enjoy many successful years in the field. In 2022, Maha became the first Maldivian to be awarded the title of Master Chef.

She also has collected accolades from several prestigious competitions, including the Food and Hospitality Asia Maldives International Culinary Challenge, the Emirates Culinary Competition, and the Hotel Asia Maldives Culinary Challenge and Food Ingredients Show.

A certified rookie judge by the World Association of Chefs Societies, Maha also serves as the Secretary General of the Chefs Guild of Maldives (CGM). Her career in pastry arts has encompassed catering, training and providing consultation for resorts.

We chatted with Maha about her journey.

Hotel Insider: What inspired you to choose a career in the culinary field?

Maha: I’ve been cooking since I was 8 years old, but my childhood dream was to become a lawyer. And since I couldn’t pursue it, I worked in marketing and human resources. I’ve worked at several companies in the tourism industry. And after I had kids, I wanted to do something that I could do while staying close to the kids, and because I was interested in cooking, I chose this career.

Hotel Insider: You’ve been in the industry for over 20 years right? How has the journey been? What were the highlights?

Maha: I’ve been in the business for about 20 years yes, but in the culinary sector of the hospitality industry, it’s been about 7 years.

The biggest achievement and the one that made me the happiest was the first award I won, that’s winning 3rd place at the Hotel Asia Maldives Culinary Challenge in 2006. I am very humbled and honoured to be where I am today. And that was the award that propelled me forward in my career and helped me to be where I am today, and so it tops any awards I won after that.

Hotel Insider: What kind of roles have you taken on in tourism so far?

Maha: In the hospitality sector, I worked as a marketing executive at Sun Travels and at Villa Hotels, front office, hr and admin. It’s very different from the culinary field. Since I’ve always had an interest and because I like to experiment and show my creations and showcase my talent, it makes me happy.

Hotel Insider: You are the first Maldivian

chef to be awarded the title of Master Chef by the Master Chef Society. Could you tell us a bit more about that?

Maha: Again I’m very humbled and honoured. It was hard work. A lot of people applied and to be selected among them, I see it as a big achievement.

Hotel Insider: You’ve won many culinary awards as well. What do you consider as the key achievements in your career?

Maha: One that is really close to my heart would be teaching. I had a studio to teach pastry and baking. I feel a sense of achievement to when I see how my students’ careers have developed since then. Teaching others is a passion of mine. It makes me very happy to impart my knowledge to others.

Hotel Insider: When did you conduct the classes?

Maha: From 2014 to 2019. I conducted baking classes mostly. We brought international artists as well and hosted them to teach classes. It’s expensive when you have to fly abroad for courses and pay for accommodation, food and transportation, but if we brought in trainers, the students would only have to pay for the course, so I wanted to make it happen.

Hotel Insider: Women in most occupations face obstacles due to their gender. What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in your career?

Maha: To be very honest, it’s quite a macho industry. In the Maldives and abroad as well. A lot of women have to face all sorts of challenges. I have to say I’ve been very lucky to not have to face it personally but I have helped and advised my co-workers and subordinates to overcome them.

I have to say that there’s nothing you can’t do because you are a woman. If you set your mind to it and work hard, you’ll achieve your goals.

Hotel Insider: Compared to a few years ago, we are seeing more women in the hospitality industry, and in higher positions as well. What are your thought on this?

Maha: I would say there still isn’t enough. Even in the culinary industry, there are very few women. Out of all the culinary graduates from the hotel school, less than 5 percent seek

employment in the culinary or hospitality sector. Although 90 percent of graduates are female, most of them start a small business from home. But if they come to work in the industry, they’ll get a lot of opportunities to grow. I think it’s a great idea to explore it. You’ll gain more hands-on experience. In the Hospitality industry we are seeing more women, but in the kitchen there’s still quite a few.

Hotel Insider: Why do you think that is?

Maha: I’m not so sure. I think it’s the mentality. If you go to work at a resort, a lot of labels get attached to you. I think we need more awareness programs to change that mentality.

Hotel Insider: Are there any chefs that you admire, local or international?

Maha: My favourite local chef would be chef [Mohamed] Adil. And Amaury Guichon. I follow his work and collect his books as well.

Hotel Insider: Who would you say helped you the most in your career?

Maha: In general, I would say I get a lot of help from everyone who are close, especially my family.

Hotel Insider: Since you are a chef, we’d like to know your favourite ingredient.

Maha: If I had to choose one ingredient, it would be githeyomirus (scotch bonnet).

Hotel Insider: You’ve reached the top of your career. What’s your vision for the future?

Maha: I still haven’t reached the level where I want to be. I would like to be someone that people look up to, to be an inspiration to girls and women, to be a motivation for others to come into the industry.

Hotel Insider: We think you already are.

Maha: Thank you!

Discovery of new ecosystem‘The Trapping Zone’ - creating oasis of life in

the Maldives

Scientists on the Nekton Maldives Mission have discovered evidence of ‘The Trapping Zone’ - an oasis of oceanic life observed at 500 metres - which is likely a previously undescribed ecosystem.

“The discovery of ‘The Trapping Zone’ and the oasis of life in the depths surrounding the Maldives provides us with critical new knowledge that further supports our conservation commitments and sustainable ocean management, and almost certainly support fisheries and tourism,” explained President of the Maldives H.E Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

“Image data, combined with the biological samples we have collected from our submersibles and extensive sonar mapping all point to megafauna predators such as sharks and other large fish feeding on swarms of micro-nekton - small swimming creatures that are trapped against the subsea landscape at that depth,” detailed Professor Lucy Woodall, Nekton Principal Scientist.

The volcanic subsea strata and fossilised carbonate reefs which form the base of Maldivian atolls combine steep vertical cliffs and shelving terraces which appear to cause these species to be prevented from diving any deeper as the sun rises. These animals typically migrate from the deep sea to the surface at night and dive back down into the deep at dawn, otherwise known as The Vertical Migration - the largest nightly migration on Earth.

The trapped animals are targeted by large pelagic predators, including schools of tuna and sharks, along with well-known, large deep-water fish including the spiky oreo (named after the biscuit) and alfonsino.

“We’ve observed sharks in shallower waters quite extensively in the Maldives before, but for the first time we’ve been able to document an immense diversity of sharks in the deep sea,” explained Shafiya Naeem, Director General of the Maldives Marine Research Institute, which has partnered with Nekton on the expedition. Tiger sharks, six gill sharks, sand tiger sharks, dog fish, gulper sharks, scalloped hammerhead sharks, silky sharks and the very rare bramble shark have all been documented.

Marine ecosystems are defined by both the topography and ocean life. “This has all the hallmarks of a distinct new ecosystem”,

explained Professor Alex Rogers who has spent over 30 hours underwater in the mission’s submersibles observing ‘The Trapping Zone’ during the expedition. “The Trapping Zone is creating an oasis of life in the Maldives and it is highly likely to exist in other oceanic islands and also on the slopes of continents”, added Professor Rogers.

Whilst a trapping effect has been associated with the biodiversity hotspots on subsea mountains or seamounts, it has not previously been linked to the different geomorphology and biological parameters of oceanic islands, like the Maldives.

“Maldives, a coral atoll archipelagic nation is facing existential threat caused by human impacts and climate change. For our very survival as a nation, we ought to look for science-based solutions that help us to mitigate and adapt to the disastrous effects of climate change,” explained Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan, Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources and Agriculture. “The evolutionary history of this beautiful coral atoll nation is written as a record on the bedrock, deposits and the fauna of the deep. This Mission is shedding light on how we may use the science to survive as a nation.”

Analysis of the video and biological data is ongoing in the Maldives, Nekton’s UK headquarters in Oxford and at partner laboratories. The discovery could have important implications for other oceanic islands and the slopes of continents, sustainable fisheries management, the burial and storage of carbon and, ultimately, climate change mitigation.

Previous Nekton missions have led to major scientific breakthroughs. Its expedition to Bermuda in 2016 confirmed the discovery of the Rariphotic Zone, or rare light zone, a new ecosystem found at depths between 120 metres and 300 metres.

"The discovery of ‘The Trapping Zone’ and the oasis of life in the depths surrounding the Maldives provides us with critical new knowledge that further supports our conservation commitments."

Biodegradable Wet-Towel Solutions

Established for over 10 years, Adex supplies disposable towel solutions to resorts throughout the Maldives.

Our wet towel dispenser produces fresh, sterile, one-off wet towels to wipe away dust, grime and germs.

With the assured safety, the machine provides healthier and better hygiene as compared to traditional towels and normal napkins, paper or cloth.

The towels are produced after cutting, heating, spraying and rolling a non-woven towel made from 100% natural fiber. You can get a warm or a cold towel with a variety of scents, depending upon your choice.

These wet towel dispensers are ideally suited for use in lounges, spas, cafes, restaurants, cafeterias, salons, hotels and resorts.

Thursday, September 1

QR ticketing was introduced for buses operated in Malé, Laamu Atoll, Fuvahmulah and Addu by the Raajje Transport Link, a subsidiary of the stateowned Maldives Transport and Contracting Company.

A QR code issued for tickets purchased online through the RTL app or website can be scanned on the bus.

The bus service remains free for the elderly, disabled persons, children under the age of three, and students in uniform.

On Tuesday, RTL expanded

September and October

An overview of the top business news

its ferry service to Shaviyani atoll, the first phase of an MVR800 million (US$51.8 million) project to establish a nationwide ferry network with purpose-built speedboats.

Yousuf Siraj, former deputy managing director of the Waste Management Corporation, was promoted to managing director.

Former WAMCO boss Adam Mohamed was appointed as the managing director of the Maldives Post Ltd in March. The privatisation and corporatisation board also announced the appointment

of Khalid Sulaiman to the Housing Development Corporation’s board of directors to replace outgoing MD Suhail Ahmed.

Friday, September 2

Bank of Maldives concluded its 12-month Graduate Internship Programme and announced continuation for the fourth year with 15 new graduates and students from local higher education institutions.

“The 12 month internship program allows students to gain on-the-job experience and provide a pathway to

permanent employment within the bank and other financial institutions in Maldives,” according to the bank. “Interns will be rotated across a number of business units, departments and branches to gain experience and develop skills. Each intern is assigned to a mentor to guide them through their time at the bank.”

Sunday, September 4

Ritz-Carlton Maldives paid the highest service charge in August, according to a list compiled by Resort Workers Maldives based on information

Right:

from resort staff.

The new resort paid US$1,317 per employee. Before RitzCarlton topped the list, Nautilus Maldives, Waldorf Astoria and One&Only Reethi Rah were most commonly in first place.

Tuesday, September 6

The national airline operator told parliament’s stateowned enterprises oversight committee that it has decided to hand back islands under its ownership to the tourism ministry. Island Aviation Services no longer plans to invest in resort development, the company informed

lawmakers. The island of Ruthibirah in Thaa Atoll, which was awarded to IAS as part of the Thimarafushi airport development, will also be returned. The island was

previously subleased to a Singaporean company but the resort development project remained stalled.

Thursday, September 8

Citing adverse effects of a global economic downturn on the Maldives, the government proposed indefinitely delaying the introduction of a minimum wage for foreign workers. A minimum wage for

Left: Pedestrians wait to climb onboard a bus.

Above: Aishath Noordeen, deputy CEO and acting managing director of BML, speaking at internship programme.

The island of Ruthibirah in Thaa Atoll, which was awarded to IAS.

Maldivians came into effect in January 2022. An exemption for expatriates was due to end on 22 September.

Tuesday, September 15

Speaking at the annual GM Forum for resort management, ‘Bandhu’ Ibrahim Saleem, founder of the Cyprea travel agency, criticised the central bank for not formulating regulations for the introduction of digital finance or cryptocurrencies.

Countries such as India, Singapore, and Malaysia

are regulating the use of cryptocurrencies, said Saleem, who has also managed stateowned enterprises.

“Customers must have a choice in payment, we cannot dictate their choice,” he said.

Monday, September 26

British Airways announced plans to resume direct flights to the Maldives.

From 14 October, the airline will operate four weekly direct flights from London’s Heathrow Airport to Male's Velana International Airport.

Daily flights will begin after 30 October.

The resumption of flights follows a partnership with Qatar Airways to form the largest joint airline business, adding 42 new countries to their shared network, including Italy, the Maldives, Norway, Singapore, and Sweden.

Tuesday, September 27

Mohamed Azad was appointed as the new financial controller at the finance ministry following the resignation of former controller Fathmath

Above: A British Airways A380 moves across the taxiway.

Right above: Migrant workers gathered at the Republic Square.

Right

below: Mohamed Azad, new financial controller at the finance ministry.

Razeena, who left the post after six years to pursue a PhD overseas. The financial controller is responsible for maintaining records of government income and overseeing the procurement and sale of assets. Azad holds a masters degree in finance and previously served as an SoE reform consultant at the finance ministry and head of the intelligence department at the Anti-Corruption Commission.

Thursday, October 6

The new runway of the Velana International Airport was operationalised as the day’s

first flight, an Emirates B777 aircraft, was welcomed with a water salute.

Spanning 3,400 meters in length and 60 meters in width, the code-F runway allows VIA to accommodate A380 Aircraft and significantly increases operational capacity.

Ahead of the tourism industry’s peak season, VIA will now be able to serve more than 20 planes an hour, up from eight at the old runway. The runway clearance time is also expected to fall from 15 minutes to less than three minutes after a flight lands. The old runway – which was built more than 60 years ago and periodically required extensive maintenance and

repairs – will hereafter be used as a taxiway.

Officially opened by the vice president on Thursday morning, the new seaplane terminal and dock can accommodate more than 100 seaplanes and operate 300 daily flights on average – rising to 600 during peak season – with the capacity to serve more than 6,000 tourists a day.

Tuesday, October 18

More than MVR1 billion (US$64.8 million) is owed as tourism-related taxes, the finance ministry informed parliament, including MVR872 million of unpaid tourism goods and services tax and fines for non-payment.

By mid-2022, the state was owed a total of MVR15 billion (US$972 million) in unpaid

taxes, rent and fines, according to the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority’s second quarter report. Unpaid land rent for resorts and tourism sales tax accounted for the bulk of the arrears.

It emerged in May that 12 resorts owed a combined MVR665 million in unpaid land rent. But action under the enforcement policy was deferred for the resorts to seek

Above: The new runway at VIA, a new hope for tourism.

a negotiated settlement with the tourism ministry, it was reported in August.

Thursday, October 27

Associations representing guesthouses, resorts and travel agents opposed plans to hike the tourism goods and service tax (T-GST) from 12% to 16% in January 2023. As parliament took up the government-sponsored legislation this week, the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) appealed for a minimum 12-month notice for the tax increase. A quarter of bookings could be cancelled, the Guesthouse Association of Maldives warned the full house committee reviewing the bill, noting the mid-market sector’s 40% occupancy rate and low profit margin as well as the impact of the war in Ukraine. The Maldives Association of Travel Agents and Tour Operators (MATATO) estimated a 10%

drop in tourist arrivals with a disproportionate effect on smaller tourism businesses. A survey of more than 300 tour operator partners, who collectively represent more than half of tourist arrivals, indicated “an unfavourable impact on demand” compared to reopened competitors such as Phuket and Bali.

Above: Guesthouse association representatives at a parliamentary session.

September 8, 2022

The Maldives Virtual Tour Expo, dubbed the largest virtual consumer travel fair in the Maldives, reached over seven million travellers from across the globe.

Most of the visitors came from India, Turkey, Bangladesh, Egypt, USA, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, UK, Australia, UAE, Malaysia and CIS countries, the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation revealed after the event concluded.

With 360° virtual tours, travel guides and the best deals from resorts across the country, the exhibition featured over 1,000 virtual tours from 50 different islands.

A free holiday and a grand seaplane tour were on offer for winners of a lucky draw. All visitors were able to participate

September and October Tourism Bulletin

An overview of the top tourism news

in the giveaway lucky draw by filling in the lucky draw coupon. The winner of the Grand Prize by Trans Maldivian Airways will be treated to a 12-hour seaplane ride, a grand tour that covers more than 700 Islands in 13 atolls with stops for guests to hop onto an island to explore and enjoy some refreshments. TMA – the largest seaplane operators in the world – will also take the grand prize winner to Addu City in the southernmost atoll.

“This expo helped reach people from across the globe from the comfort of their homes and allowed them to experience the Maldives like never before by simulating real travel situations. Visitors were able to take 360 tours of different resorts and islands in the Maldives through the virtual expo,” according to the

MMPRC.

Aside from the MMPRC as the destination partner of the expo, Trans Maldivian Airways was the seaplane partner, Maldivian was the domestic airline partner, SriLankan Airlines was the international airline partner and Ooredoo Maldives was the digital partner.

Above: A rendering of a beach idyll for the Maldives Virtual Tour Expo - the largest virtual consumer travel fair.

September 15, 2022

The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) held a series of roadshows in the United States and Canada to maintain destination momentum in the North American market.

The ‘Maldives Roadshow in USA and Canada’ took place in Los Angeles, New York and Toronto on the 12th, 13th and 15th September, respectively. Together with 11 industry partners, which included highend resorts, tour operators, and industry professionals, the MMPRC sought to strengthen relations with U.S. and Canadian travel and trade officials in a bid to boost arrivals from the growing market.

“MMPRC, along with industry partners, are fully utilising this event to market and advertise the Maldives tourism products, namely resorts, hotels, guesthouses, and liveaboards, along with the country’s unique geography and the extraordinary experiences awaiting tourists in the Sunny Side of Life,” the MMPRC said. The U.S. is presently the sixth largest source market with 52,168 tourist arrivals as of 7 September.

In addition to travel trade webinars and familiarisation trips with media and influencers, the MMPRC has held several activities targeting the U.S. market this year, including participation in the ATTA’s AdventureELEVATE 2022 and campaigns with

leading tourism companies such as Worth Magazine, Goway, and SQ. Other activities in the pipeline include print magazine ads, TV campaigns, more familiarisation trips, and taking part in the USTOA Annual Conference.

Above: From a series of MMPRC roadshows held in North America focussing on the US and Canada.

October 5, 2022

A new resale market was launched on Saturday (1 October) by the Women’s Development Committees (WDCs) of the seven Baa Atoll ‘Namoona’ islands in partnership with Soneva Namoona NGO and support from their respective island councils.

Currently in its pilot phase, the ‘Alun Balun’ market will enable the resale of secondhand goods in Maalhos, Dharavandhoo, Kihaadhoo, Dhonfanu, Kudarikilu, Kamadhoo and Kendhoo. The idea behind the market is to foster a culture of re-use and resource conservation in Baa atoll, the NGO said. The project involves establishing an inter-island, secondhand market that will provide access to secondhand goods at

reasonable prices, extend the useful life span of products, and reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.

“What we are starting today in Baa Atoll will create greater opportunities for women in resource conservation while providing the WDCs with an income stream. Even though the Namoona WDCs of Baa Atoll are pioneering this, our hope is that other islands in Baa atoll and beyond will also join this network” said Mariyam Nishreen, from the Dhonfanu WDC.

The WDCs intercept re-usable items from households before they are thrown away, and clean and repair them, where necessary. The items are then sent to the WDC of another Namoona island for re-sale.

The rotation of goods among the islands allow the WDCs to overcome the problem of

re-selling used items in small communities, as the goods they are selling will be from another island. The WDCs keep the money raised by the sale of the goods.

“Soneva Namoona is thrilled to be working with such passionate and ambitious women from the seven Namoona Islands across Baa Atoll on the pressing issue of waste. Collectively focusing our efforts on the reduction of waste generation with the Alun Balun resale market will hopefully inspire us all to think twice before we throw an item away.” said Khady Hamid, Reduce Manager at Soneva Namoona.

The ‘Alun Balun’ market was launched simultaneously across the seven Namoona islands.

Below: A new resale market was launched on Saturday (1 October) by WDCs of the seven Baa Atoll ‘Namoona’ islands in partnership with Soneva Namoona NGO.

October 23, 2022

The Maldives nabbed top accolades as Africa & Indian Ocean winners of the 2022 World Travel Awards (WTA) were announced on 15 October at a Gala ceremony held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre in Nairobi.

The Maldives won the ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Destination’ and ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Dive Destination’ titles as well as the award for ‘Indian Ocean’s Best Spa Destination’. The Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) won the award for ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Tourist Board’.

“It is of special significance for all who work in the tourism industry, as these prestigious awards have been won, during this festive year in which Maldives is celebrating the 50-year Golden Jubilee of Tourism,” the MMPRC said. Some 400 VIP guests, industry figureheads and media from 25 countries attended the WTA’s comeback event.

“WTA had the privilege of recognising the region’s leading lights as the industry marked its triumphant return in style. As stellar examples of tourism excellence, our winners have helped to once again raise the bar,” Graham Cooke, Founder of the WTA said.

‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Wedding Destination’ went to Mauritius, while ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Honeymoon Destination’ was won by Seychelles.

The Maldives’ Velana International Airport won the award for ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Airport’ with Hulhule’ Island Hotel bagging the award for Leading Airport Hotel. Local travel agencies won top honours in the Indian Ocean category including Get

Into Maldives Travel (‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Luxury Tour Operator’), Simply Maldives (‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Travel Agency’).

Trans Maldivian Airways won the award for Indian Ocean’s Leading Seaplane Operator. The hotly contested category for ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading New Resort’ went to Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island, while the award for ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Luxury Island Resort’ was awarded to Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi; and ‘Indian Ocean’s Leading Resort’ was won by Vakkaru Maldives.

The Maldives has also been nominated for several

prestigious awards in the WTA’s ‘World’s Leading Category’ including the ‘World’s Leading Island Destination’, and the ‘World’s Most Romantic Destination’, and the most prestigious ‘World’s Leading Destination’ for the third consecutive year. The Maldives won the title of World’s Leading Destination for the last two years. The MMPRC has been nominated for the title of the World’s Leading Tourist Board as well. The Grand Final Gala Ceremony will be held in Oman on 11 November. The World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to recognise, reward, and

celebrate excellence across all sectors of the tourism industry. The brand is recognised globally as the benchmark of industry excellence.

Above: A bird's eye view of a Maldives island - the Maldives won the title of the Indian Ocean's leading destination among many others.

October 5, 2022

The Vaavu Atoll Council has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Lewini Hotels and Resorts to develop the country’s first floating resort.

Lewini Hotels and Resorts plans to develop a 6,038 sqm resort on a lagoon near Rakeedhoo. The 40-villa resort is expected to be complete within three years. The resort will house five restaurants, and two staff accommodation buildings as well.

The agreement was signed by the President of Vaavu Atoll Council Ali Shujau and Vice President of Lewini Dr. Varisa Limsakul.

The floating resort aims to introduce a new concept for the tourism industry and to bolster the development of the atoll, Vaavu Atoll Council said. The council stated the resort will be developed within 36 months and is expected to

increase job opportunities.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Managing Director of Lewini Hotels and Resorts Abdulla Rasheed said that the decision to build a floating resort was made after much consideration and extensive research of similar projects in other countries. Council president Ali Shujau said that such projects are possible in this age of technology and bringing innovative change will boost both the tourism sector and development of the atoll, and create more job opportunities as well.

Below: Vaavu Atoll Council has signed an MoU with Lewini Hotels and Resorts to develop floating resort.

Monday, October 30

Tourist arrivals for 2022 reached 1.3 million by 26 October, surpassing the total arrivals recorded in 2021. Before the industry’s traditional peak season with the busy Christmas-New Year period, tourist arrivals have increased 33% compared to 2021. A total of 988,013 was recorded by 26 October 2021. After a 48% growth on average this year, the first decline in

a 2022 month was registered in August. But growth picked up with a 5.8 increase in September and returned to robust double-digit levels in the first week of October.

Total tourist arrivals this year remains just 4% below the corresponding pre-pandemic period in 2019.

The average duration of stay is down from 8.7 days in 2021 to 8.1 days this year.

India remains the top market with 186,388 tourists as of

26 October, representing a 14.1% market share, followed by Russia (159,657 tourists), the UK (144,566 tourists), Germany (107,455 tourists) and Italy (73,496 tourists). The government remains optimistic of meeting its target of 1.6 million visitors for 2022 after record-breaking arrivals in May, a nearly 100% increase in June and arrivals surpassing pre-pandemic levels in July.

Above: Passengers queued up at VIA - Tourist arrivals reached 1.3 million by 26 October this year.

Marketplace

A quick guide to the suppliers and service providers that cater to the Maldivian tourism industry.

Banking & Insurance

ALLIED INSURANCE

Allied Insurance Company Pvt Ltd is a leading insurance service provider offering total solutions with a comprehensive range of general, life Insurance and Takaful services throughout the Maldives. Allied’s customers include individuals, smallmedium businesses, corporate and government institutions. City Square, 3rd Floor, Chaandhanee Magu, Male’, +960 334 1001, toll free 1600, info@allied.com, allied.mv

AMANA TAKAFUL

Amana Takaful PLC is a full-fledged and licensed General Insurance company with an outstanding portfolio of Takaful insurance solutions. Commencing operations in 2003, it stands proud as the only publicly quoted insurance company in the Maldives listed in the Maldives Stock Exchange (MSE). 3rd Floor, H. Mialani, Sosun Magu, Male’, Maldives, +960 331 5262, info@takaful.mv, takaful.mv

BANK OF CEYLON (BOC)

With over seven decades of experience, the bank offers a broad range of services including commercial banking, trade finance, development financing, mortgage financing, lease financing, investment banking, corporate financing, dealing in government securities, pawn brokering, credit card facilities and others. H. Aage, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male’, +960 333 7564, smit@bocmale.com.mv, bocmale.com.mv

BANK

OF MALDVIES (BML)

Known locally as “the national bank,” BML is a public limited company with majority ownership held by the government of Maldives. BML is a full-service bank engaging across the complete spectrum of personal, business and corporate financial services. BML Head Office, No. 11, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male’, +960 333 0200, main.branch@bml.com.mv, bankofmaldives.com.mv

CEYLINCO INSURANCE COMPANY

Ceylinco Insurance’s company policy is to settle claims within 14 days from the date of receipt of the complete documents, and they take pride in attempting to meet this deadline.Speed and efficiency are the company's hallmarks and total customer satisfaction is their goal. 3rd Floor, H.Merry Side, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male', +960 969 3939, info@ceylincoinsurance.com.mv, ceylinco-insurance.com

COMMERCIAL BANK OF MALDIVES

The Commercial Bank of Maldives is a joint venture between Tree Top Investments Pvt Ltd (TTIL) and the Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC (CBC). Commercial Bank of Ceylon PLC was established in 1969, and have since become the largest private bank in Sri Lanka with an asset base over USD 6 Bn. Commercial Bank of Maldives, H. Filigasdhoshuge, Ameeru Ahmed Magu, +960 333 2668, info@cbmmv.com, cbmmv.com

HABIB BANK LTD

HBL is a Karachi based multinational bank and is one of the largest banks in Pakistan. Founded in 1941, HBL became Pakistan's first commercial bank and is the largest company in Pakistan in terms of assets. As of 2016, HBL has 1700 branches with presence in over 25 countries spanning four continents. Habib Bank Limited, H.Thuniya Building Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male’, +960 332 2051, customercare.maldives@hbl.com

MAURITIUS COMMERCIAL BANK (MCB)

The Mauritius Commercial Bank (Maldives) is a leading commercial bank in the country, offering a comprehensive range of services to meet the needs of its valued customers. MCB Maldives aims also at being the preferred banking and financial partner of corporate customers, whether they are startups or well established groups. H. Sifa Building, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Malé, +960 3305656, contact@mcbmaldives.com, mb.mcbmaldives.com

SOLARELLE INSURANCE

Solarelle Insurance is committed to finding new and innovative ways of reducing risks and losses, and is devoted to providing comprehensive General Insurance solutions that can be tailor-made to suit the different needs and lifestyles of its customers. 1st Floor, ADK Tower, Male', 20096, +960 330 0099, info@solarelleinsurance.com, solarelleinsurance.com

STATE BANK OF INDIA (SBI)

State Bank of India opened its first branch in Male’ in February 1974. This heralded the commencement of its Maldives operations as one of the foreign branches of India's largest commercial bank. The State Bank Group has over 22,887 branches within India and another 191 offices outside India, spread over 36 countries. H. Sunsleet, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male, +960 331 2111, sbimale@statebank.com, sbimaldives.com

Bath, Kitchen, Laundry

ASTRABON

Astrabon is dedicated towards providing the most apt solutions for resort and hotel supply needs. Astrabon has the finest selection of products supplied by the most reputed manufacturers of the industry. Every product purchased from Astrabon is indicative of high-quality. Orchid Magu, Male, Maldives, +960 300 8060, sales@astrabon.net

AQUA CHROME

Aqua Chrome offers solutions for sanitary fittings, solar heaters and specialized roofing to various economic sectors. GROHE is the world's leading provider of sanitary fittings under one brand and is represented in Maldives by Aqua Chrome. (Grohe) H. Gullalaamaage, Roashanee Magu, K. Male', +960 300 3663, aquachromemaldives.com

HOTEC

Hotec is a sales agent in the Maldives for internationally renowned manufacturers of small equipment and supplies for the food service industry in Maldives. Their objective is to bring the best food service equipment, other kitchen accessories, and bath and wellness products from the best brands in the world. Ma. Favorite, Chaandhanee Magu, Male', +960 334 1616, info@hoteconline.com, hoteconline.com

RADIANTHEAT

Radiantheat Maldives Pvt Ltd is the flagship company of Radiantheat Group and a leading supplier for commercial catering and laundry equipment and spares in the Maldives. Currently Radiantheat represents several renowned global brands. Radiantheat Building 3rd Floor, H. Nooali, Hithigas Magu, Male' 20022, +960 333 4854, sales@radheatonline.com, radheatonline.com

OSMOSIS ASIA

Osmosis Asia Pvt Ltd provides clients with a space where they can find all products that will enable them to run their operations without hassle. They supply spare parts for commercial kitchens, commercial refrigeration, coffee machines, bar and vending equipment. 1st Floor, H.Bonthi Building, Hiffaseyha Goalhi, Male’, +960 300 9551, sales@osmosisasia.com

SOVEREIGN AGENCIES

Sovereign Agencies offers an extensive range of products geared towards the hospitality industry, serving more than 60 resorts in the Maldives. Their products include emiment brands such as Primus, Bauscher, and Vito. Ma. Moorithi Building, 1st Floor, Chaandhanee Magu, Male’, +960 331 4422, sales@sovereignagencies.com.mv

XENON MALDIVES

Xenon Maldives Pvt Ltd provides several types of equipments, genuine spares and services to hotels and resorts. These inlcude kitchen equipments that are commercial and used by popular chefs, and laundry machinery from USA. M. Three & One, Haveeree Hingun, 4th Floor, Male', +960 331 0013, sales@xenonmaldives.com, xenonmaldives.com

Buildware & Hardware

ALIA INVESTMENTS

Currently in its 53rd year of service, Alia has been the sole distributor of the world renowned Yamaha brand for 43 years. Alia is also the distributor of Seakeeper gyroscopic stabilizers, Kohler brand’s sanitary ware, and a large variety of hardware products. 8th Floor, ALIA Building, Gandhakoalhi Magu, Maafanu, Male’ 20311, +960 332 3564, info@aliamaldives.com

ASK HOLDINGS

ASK Holdings Pvt Ltd is a hardware company based in Male', Maldives. The company's mission is to maintain quality standards for all products and provide valued customers with store wide warranty services, best prices, reliable products and amenities to make the company's stores the first choice for your household needs. +960 332 4679, info@ask.com.mv

CO-LOAD MALDIVES

Co-Load Maldives Pvt Ltd is known for establishing the American franchise Ace Hardware and Home Centre in Male', and also for their paint solutions through Color Bank. The company is the sole distributor of several world-renowned brands. M. Baarana, 1st Floor, Majeedhee Magu, Male', +960 332 0450, admin@coload.com.mv

NALAHIYA

Nalahiya Trading Pvt Ltd is a leading importer of building materials in the Maldives. The company imports cement, coarse and fine sand, roofing sheets, plywood, GI pipes, gypsum boards and others. M Faaroshige', 8th Floor, Orchid Magu, Male', +960 333 1999, marketing@nalahiyatrading.com

PROMINENT RESOURCES

Prominent Resources Pvt Ltd was established in 2011 and has built a reputation as an importer of hardwood and other related items direct from Malaysia, Indonesia and New Zealand. M. Onigandu (1st Floor), Muranga Magu, Male', +960 333 3707, marketing@prominentmaldives.com

RAINBOW

Established in 1990, Rainbow Pvt Ltd is a building service provider that caters to the Maldivian market. The company's extensive portfolio of products include furniture, roofing materials, sanitary-ware and fittings, kitchen systems, electrical products and paint. G.Maarana, Alikilegefaanu Magu, Male', +960 331 6914, sales@rainbow.com.mv

SONEE HARDWARE

Sonee Hardware is one of the largest hardware businesses in the Maldivian market. They offer a broad range of products, from hardware to kitchen tools. The company which started from 1970 since then has grown from one outlet to six. Sonee Building, No. 7, Ibrahim Hassan Didi Magu, K. Male, Maldives, +960 333 6699, info@sonee.com.mv

TIMBER HOUSE

Timber House has over a decade of experience in the timber industry and helps prospective customers in evaluating the various volumes and types of timber best suited for their needs. M. Honeydew, Izzuddheen Magu Male’, 20311, +960 333 9111, info@timberhouse.com.mv

Dive & Water Sports

BEST DIVES

Best Dives Pvt Ltd is a leading diving and watersports centre, excursion and yacht charter service provider, operating in both high-end luxury resorts and middlerange resorts in the Maldives without compromising on quality service. 6/F MF Building, Chandhanee Magu, Male city, Maldives. +960 330 5960, info@bestdivesmaldives.com

BLUE HORIZON

Blue Horizon offers diving and surfing adventures that are tailored to meet the needs of its clients. Currently the company operates two motorized yachts and two sailing catamarans. M. Bolissafaru 2nd Floor, Orchid Magu, Male', +960 332 1169, travel@blue-horizon.com.mv

DTECH

dTech Pvt Ltd is the sole distributor of SEADOO and EVINRUDE brands - providing the finest Personal Watercrafts (PWC) and Outboard engine products in the Maldives. Having established in 1998, dTECh has always worked towards offering the best products to the Maldivian marine and power sports industry. M. Whale Shark, Male', 2021, +960 333 4051 spareparts@dtech.com.mv, dtecg.com.mv

EURO DIVERS

Euro-Divers Maldives offer scuba diving activities in some of the best scuba diving resorts in Maldives as well as water sport activities at selected resorts. Euro-Divers Worldwide was founded by Swiss nationals over 40 years ago and offers safe, exciting and professional scuba diving activities and scuba diving lessons in some of the world’s best diving destinations. euro-divers.com

GOLDEN JET TRADE

Golden Jet Trade Pvt. Ltd, established in 1985, a relatively small business then is now a leading supplier of quality Scuba Diving, Snorkelling, Water sports and Swimming equipment in the Republic of Maldives. Providing quality scuba diving wetsuits in all sizes, Scuba Diving fins or Flippers to Scuba Diving, Snorkelling gear and water sport knives and accessories. Golden Jet Trade Pvt. Ltd. 3, Chandhanee Magu, Male’, +960 322338 divegear@goldenjet.com.mv

MA SERVICES

MA SERVICES is a market leader in the sale, installation and maintenance of highpressure breathing air equipment, and is the authorized distributor for brands such as BAUER, Scubapro, Analox, HATZ. G. Veyoge, Husnuheena Magu, Male', +960 331 0935, maserv@dhivehinet.net.mv, maservices.com.mv

OCEAN GROUP

Ocean Group Maldives founded in 1998 is now one of the most successful premier dive and water sports operator with an impressive 20-year track record and many innovative launches. Customizes bespoke experiences for discerning travellers seeking truly unique dive and water sports experiences and have partnered with some of the best luxury resorts in Asia with the highest standards of sustainability and eco-tourism. +960 300-4649 go@oceangroup.mv

SILVER SANDS

Silver Sands Pvt. Ltd. has been in the inbound travel business since its inception. In 2005, the Company expanded into resort-based recreational activities and has been investing in and managing dive and water sports operations at 11 luxury resorts in the Maldives. Chandhaneege, 2nd Floor, Alhivilaa Magu, Male', 20292, +960 301 7777, sales@silversands.com.mv

SQUID MALDIVES

Squid Maldives is a leading company operating in the distribution of diving equipment and services. The Male’ based company is the sole authorised distributor of Mares, Coltri, DAN, and SSI services in the Maldives. Squid Maldives, Shop #1/29, Chandhanee Magu, 20189, Male, +960 723 9458, sales@mare.mv

Electrical, Energy, Water

FSM

Established in 2000, FSM is a comprehensive fuel service provider that continuously seeks ways of improving its services and efficiencies through latest technologies and best practices. FSM works vigorously to improve their capacity and meet the challenges and the ever-growing expectations of their customers. Fuel Supplies Maldives Pvt Ltd, STO Aifaanu Building, 4th Floor, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male’, Maldives, +960 333-6655

ILAA

ILAA aims to provide environmentally sound world quality products to the resorts of the Maldives to protect and preserve the delicate environment. The company provides renowned quality products for clean power, solid and liquid waste management and electric vehicles. Lot No: 10637, Zone: M2-24, Onugas Magu, Hulhumale’ 23000, +960 335 5751, info@ilaamaldives.com, ilaamaldives.com

MWSC

Established in 1995, Male’ Water and Sewerage Company is the pioneer organization in the Maldives to institute a water production and wastewater management system. MWSC has become a multi-disciplinary engineering and manufacturing organization, providing engineering solutions for integrated utilities. Fen Building, 5th Floor, Ameenee Magu, 20375, Male, +960 332 3209, pr@mwsc.com.mv, mwsc.com.mv

PLANKTON ENGINEERING

Plankton Engineering is one of the well-recognized names in the Maldives for designing, assembling, and supplying high quality panels. These include metering, generator control panels, high voltage panels, VFD Panles. The company builds and assembles electric panels in their workshop in accordance with industry quality standards. 1st Floor, H.Thonada, Janavaree Magu, 20045, +960 330 3678, info@ plankton.com.mv, plankton.com.mv

STATIC COMPANY

Static Company Pvt Ltd's primary objectives are in the fields of mechanical and electrical engineering and water treatment. The company’s main activities include the design. contracting, supply of power generation and distribution of equipment, etc. M.Huraa, Fareedhee Magu, Male', Maldives, +960 331 0313, info@static-company.com

THE HAWKS

One of the leading fuel supply companies in the Maldives, the Hawks' services include fuel supply to inhabited islands, resorts, industrial and commercial projects, as well as sales and distribution of fuel related equipment. Bunkering services are provided both domestically and internationally to fishing vessels, ferries, safaris, cargo ships, cruise vessels, super and mega yachts. +960 334 0949, info@thehawks.biz

URBAN INVESTMENT

Urban Investment Pvt Ltd is a distinguished supplier of electrical home appliances and is also one of the leading resort suppliers. The company operates three shops in the capital, Male', having a variety of products ranging from electric kettles to air-conditioners and generators. Urban Investment Pvt Ltd, Neena, 2nd Flr, Keneeri Magu, Male’, +960 331 7019, sales@urbaninvestment.net

VAMCO

VAMCO's vision is to create long lasting solutions that customers will appreciate. The company prides itself in creating customized packages (product solutions) for fishermen, cargo-vessels and for inter-island ferry operators as well as playing a role in bringing mobility to Maldivians. +960 332 1169, marketing@vamco.com. mv, vamco.com.mv

Electronics & Accessories

ASTERS

Asters is a leading provider of high quality and affordable home and office furniture, electronic appliances, technology products and office supplies. Also supplies home, outdoor furniture, office furniture, IT solutions, stationery, office supplies and equipment. +960 3316464, sales@asters.com.mv

LE CUTE LIFESTYLE

Lintel Investments and Management Services Pvt. Ltd. is a wholly Maldivianowned company registered and operating in the Maldives as one of the country’s leading distributors of luxury fashion, beauty and lifestyle electronics brands. Le Cute Lifestyle Electronics is the official distributor for Panasonic, BOSCH Home Appliances, Electrolux, Marshall and Bowers & Wilkins brand of products in the Maldives. +960 301 0200, info@lintel.com.mv, lintel.com.mv

REEFSIDE

Reefside Maldives is recognised as a leader in selling original watches and electronic products in Maldives. Reefside is the authorized service centre for LG, Sony, Bose and Nikon Electronic products in the Maldives and offers local and international after sales service guarantee. KKM Building, 03, Orchid Magu, P.O. Box 20189, +960 332 3545, reefside@reefsidemaldives.com, reefsidemaldives.com

REFCOOL INVESTMENTS

Established in October 2002, REFCOOL has national reach and vision, offering exciting products and services that touch everyday lives of the people. Being in the business only for a few years, REFCOOL has already gained recognition as a major player in the rapidly evolving tourism and construction industry of the Maldives. 1st Floor, M. Seena, Varudhee Hingun, Male', 20253, 330 9900, info@refcool.com.mv, refcool.com.mv

STATE TRADING ORGANIZATION (STO)

STO group, with its subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates, is a national leader in business. It also focuses on petroleum, cooking gas, construction materials, medical supplies and pharmaceuticals, home appliances, electronics, supermarket products and insurance. STO Head Office Building, Maafanu, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male', +960 334 4333, info@stomaldives.net, sto.mv

Event, Lighting, Sound

AZIDON

Azidon specialises in sound reinforcement, stage lighting and turn-key events and projects in Maldives. Azidon’s technical planning and process-oriented approach aims to deliver a flawless result that will impress. Azidon Pvt Ltd, H. Maafilaage, Ground Floor, Kaasinjee Magu, Malé, +960 330 0999, info@azidon.com

DOAV

DOAV makes it possible to monitor and manage equipment, building management systems, scheduling, security, lighting, shades, HVAC, and energy consumption in real-time, all from a single dashboard to maximize system uptime, optimize investments in people, technology, and spaces, and ensure a great user experience. Ground & 1st Floor, H. Fennaage, Buruzu Magu Male', 20054, Maldives, +960 3009600, info@doavonline.net, doavonline.net

EVENT MALDIVES

EVENT MALDIVES is a team of young, creative and passionate professionals with extensive experience in events and entertainment. The objective is to make each and every event a unique experience. These include live shows, live events, ceremonies, exhibitions, product launch events and various other events. sales@ musicworldmaldives.com, musicworldmaldives.com

Food & Beverages

AIRSEAFOODS

AirSeaFoods is a hotel, resort, restaurant & supermarket supply company, specialised in all kind of food, delivered from anywhere in the world to your place and/or your business, at a fast reliable way, with the best possible prices in the market. M. Baaranaage Hulhangubai, Majeedhee Magu, Male, Maldives, +960 333 2889, export@airseafoods.de, airseafoods.de

ARIES MALDIVES

Pyramid was founded three decades ago and is one of the leading distributor for fast moving consumable goods (FMCG) in Maldives. Currently the main lines of products are juices, coffee, teas, biscuits, pasta, baked beans, cooking chocolate, flour tortillas etc. Representing some of the finest international brands and committed to serve resort market in Maldives for more than 30 years. 1st Foor, STO Trade Centre, Orchid Magu, +960 3328658 marketing@ariesmaldives.com

BESTBUY MALDIVES (BBM)

Bestbuy Maldives (BBM), is a leading supplier to resorts, offering top brands and solutions. BBM is continuously evolving in line with the changing needs of its clients and is one of the most innovative supply operations in the Maldives. Aagé 2nd Floor 02-02, 12 Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Malé , 20094. +960 332 0850, hello@bb-mld.com

CITY INVESTMENTS

City Investments (Pvt) Ltd was founded in 2002, and deals in bakery products. It deals with some top F&B brands including Pregel Gelato and cocktail products from Italy, Darbo fruit jams from Austria, Fentimans soft drinks from England, Truchillo Freshly Roasted Coffee Beans from Italy and various other products. City Investments, Orchid Magu, Male, +960 799 0558, info@city.com.mv, city.com.mv

COSMOPOLITIAN

Cosmopolitan –a leading Hotel, Restaurant & Resort Supply Company with exemplary and superior quality service. Products range - Frozen & Chilled meat, Dairy & Cheese, Brown Eggs, Frozen Juice, Dry Goods, Seafood, Beverages, Wines & Spirits. Our vision is to be the most preferred Hotel, Restaurant & Resort Supplier in Maldives. Omadu Fannu, 4th Floor, Haveeree Hingun, Maafannu, +0096331 0477, info@cosmpolitan.com.mv www.cosmopolitan.com.mv

CYPREA FOOD & BEVERAGE

Formed in 2014, Cyprea F.N.B Private Limited is a subsidiary company of the ‘Cyprea Group’. Having associated with reputed brands from many parts of the world it is an emergent supplier for a range of dry, frozen, beverage and specialty products to the local market and resort sector. ‘The Cyprea’, 66/17, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male’, Maldives. +960 3013032, info@cypreafnb.com.mv

EURO MARKETING

Founded in August 1997, the main purpose of Euro Marketing Pvt. Ltd. is to deliver daily merchantable non-alcoholic beverages and other snacks to the rapidly growing tourism industry of the Maldives. Additionally, serving consumer grocery retailers as well as restaurants, hotels, resorts and other food service establishments. Ma, Favourite, Chandhanee Magu, K. Male', +960 332 0022, euromarketingmaldives.com

FANTASY STORE

Fantasy Pvt Ltd supplies food selected from international locales. Products include fruit, wine, meat, pastries, cereals and others. 1st Floor, M. Velaaluge, Fareedhee Magu, Male', +960 332 4668, fantasy@dhivehinet.net.mv

HAPPY MARKET

Happy Market Trading Company Pvt Ltd (HMT) is a premium food and beverage importer & distributor operating in the Maldives. The company has exclusive distributorship of several world renowned F&B brands. M. Newplot, Ameenee Magu, Male`, +960 331 3523, info@happymarket.com.mv, happymarket.com.mv

LILY ENTERPRISES

Lily Enterprises mainly focuses on handling and distributing several internationally renowned brands, as well as marketing and promoting them in the Maldives. Additionally, the company is recognised for its efforts in providing efficient service and effective marketing strategies. Ahmadhee Bazaar, Male' 20182, +960 332 3236, info@lilyenterprises.com

MADIHAA COMPANY

MADIHAA Company is a leading importer and distributor of fresh fruits and vegetables in the Maldives. The company has diversified into other areas such as frozen products, confectioneries, household items and beauty products recently, becoming a shopping hub for the retailers throughout the Maldives. M. Dharavandhooge Uthuruge, First Floor, Lainoofaru Magu, 20223, Male’, +960 332 8827, madicom@dhivehinet.net.mv, madihaa.com

MHA

MHA imports and distributes an extensive range of F&B products. They include key ice cream brands such as Walls, Nestle and London Dairy. Other top brands in their portfolio include Milo, Al Shifa Honey, Crown Dates and Crumpy. MHA also carries personal care products including lotions, aftershaves, body sprays and bath products. Contact: +960 334 3694, sales@mha.com.mv,mha.com.mv

SEAGULL FOODS

Seagull Foods specialises in the import, wholesale and retail of food of the finest quality, in regards to fresh produce as well as processed food. Seagull Group also runs an agricultural and fisheries project on the island of Maafahi for fresh fish products and produce. G, Thundi, Ameenee Magu, Male' +960 334 3663, foods@seagullmaldives.com

SIMDI RESU

SIMDI Resu is a leading supplier of restaurant and bar products such as the prestigious Sambonet and Matfer ranges. The company also supplies leading Italian coffee brands and automatic coffee machines. Established in 1988, SIMDI Resu has become one of the most successful and competitive suppliers of cost effective, state of the art, quality resort-ware. H. Casia, Kasinjee Magu, Male’ 20-044, +960 333 4483, resu@simdi.com, simdi.com

STANDARD AND ORIGIN (S&O)

Standard and Origin, (S & O) dedicates in the food & beverage suppliers through being the brand equity and innovation. Among the tourism industry of Maldives, by becoming the Exclusive distributor of worlds famous brands like KraftHeinz, Kimberly Clark Professional, Del Monte, Pasfrost, Mydibel, Etc. Standard & Origin Pvt Ltd H. Sifa, 5th Floor Boduthakurufaanu Magu Male', +960 301 5544 sales@sno.com.mv.

UNITED FOOD SUPPLIERS

United Food Suppliers (United) is one of the fastest growing businesses in the Maldives specialising in supply, storage and distribution of temperature controlled foods mainly geared towards the resort industry. United Food Suppliers, 5th Floor, M. Alia Building, Gandhakoalhi Magu, Male, +960 330 0777, info@ufs.com.mv

VB BROTHERS

VB Brothers is one of the top FMCG distributors in the Maldives. The company has the ability of acquiring world's top brands such as Mars chocolates, Kellogg’s cornflakes, Johnson & Johnson products and Lo’real and Garnier products directly from their sources. VB Brothers Pvt Ltd, MF Building, 9th Floor, Chandhanee Magu, Male', Maldives, +960 330 3329, rsd@vbbrothers.com.mv

WRIST RESORT SUPPLY

Wrist Resort Supply is located in the Middle East and offer a one-stop-shop solution for the Resorts and provide global 24/7/365 service Our wide assortment of Food (chilled, perishables, dry, dairy, frozen) and Non-food range are delivered by air freight and sea freight from Dubai and Europe. Contacts: +960 7891215, resort@wrist.com

Engineering & Marine

AS MARINE MALDIVES

AS Marine Maldives, a joint venture between AS Marine Dubai and Coastline Investment Pvt Ltd offers a range of services from boat repairs to refurbishments of boats’ structure and systems, with a wide range of boat types and brands. AS Marine Maldives provides complete solutions from the drawing board to delivery. +960 799 8590, info@asmarinemaldives.com

HASSAN MARINE

Established in 1999, with a service center specialising in repair, installation and maintenance of out-board engines, Hassan Marine is the exclusive distributor in the Maldives of Mercury Engines, Quicksilver Parts & Accessories, Attwood Marine Products, NGK Spark Plugs, Seafirst Steering Systems and many more. M. Kakolhas, Izzudheen Magu, Male', +960 300 7044, info@hassanmarine.com, hassanmarine.com

MTCC

Maldives Transport & Contracting Company (MTCC) provides a diversified range of products and services, such as construction and project management services, logistical operations, modern transport services, engineering and docking services and an extensive range of reputed products as, Yanmar and Suzuki marine engines, Hamilton propulsion system, Castrol lubricants, Sigma protective coatings, Scott Bader boat building composite. 7th Floor, MTCC Tower, Boduthakurufaanu Magu, Male', Maldives, +960 332 6822, info@mtcc.com.mv

OFFSHORE

Offshore's main focus is on the design and construction of safari yachts, dive boats, ferries, 4th generation fishing vessels and speedboats. These include hi-tech high-speed crafts and cargo carriers as well. Additional services include designing sophisticated yachts and boats, project costing, stability reports, turnkey boat building, supervision of projects and inspection, and consultancy. sales@offshore. mv, offshore.mv

Furniture & Flooring

ALLORA PAN HOME

Allora Pan Home is the sole distributor of a leading Asian furniture brand "SB" in the Maldives. Visit Allora's showroom to experience the many options available to make your home a place of comfort and style. SB products are reputed for their design, quality and value for money. Allora Pan Home, Hithaffinivaa Magu, Male', Maldives, +960 332 5105, info@panocean.com.mv

DAMAS

Damas Pvt Ltd. provides a wide range of products and services including real estate development & management, logistics & moving services, IT services, food and beverages, construction and fabrication materials, and resort equiptment such as cutlery and crockery, hotel linen, cold room items & implements. +960 333 3000, info@damas.com.mvdesign

EVO

EVO is dedicated to providing high quality, creative interior solutions to meet the needs in interior planning and designing. As exclusive distributor of Germany’s top brands such as Nolte Kitchens, Express Kitchens and Csshmal, Evo Home aims to offer clients the best of furniture technology in the Maldives. evohome.mv

FORTSEN

Fortsen offers specialized products & services to the architectural, residential & industrial sector. With its prime focus on interior finishing & furnishing, the company has developed a comprehensive range of wooden laminate floorings, windows blinds & specialty decorative stones. Contact: 332 6662, email: info@fortsen.mv

PALM GLOW

Palm Glow provides hygiene and maintenance solutions while continuously reassessing the commitment to professional hygiene and maintenance, to ensure that the customers are always up to date with the latest in technology, and is always supported from inception throughout the relationship cycle. Ma. Uthuru Innaage, 5A, Nikagas Magu, 20164, Male', +960 300 9700, palmglow.com

SPECTRA

Spectra PLC is an interior product supply and service provider, specialising in ceilings, laminate and wooden floors, window tints, carpets, rugs, wallpaper and many more such products. They have a wide range of experience designing everything from government buildings, education institutes, theater and convention centers, to bedrooms. Faamudheyrige, Maafannu, Orchid Magu, Male’, 20209, +960 333 0099, info@spectra.mv

IT Solutions & Networking

CLICK COMPUTERS

Click Computers is a reputed IT company providing turnkey IT solutions. It offers the latest IT solutions to multinationals, government agencies, private sector parties including hotels and resorts. The company deals with major brands including Dell, Acer, HP, Samsung, Apple and Asus among others. M. Borneo, Male', +960 334 2002, sales@clickmaldives.com

COMPUTER PLUS

Computer Plus Pvt. Ltd is a leading vendor of computer products & services in the Maldives. It aims to provide a comprehensive and wide range of services and products to fulfill the requirements of the information technology sector from system design, procurement, and installation to maintenance of computer hardware as well as providing regular and custom software. M.Send Rose, Iskandharu Magu, Male', +960 333 4862, sales@computerplus.com.mv

DHIVEHI VIUGA

Dhivehi Viuga (DV) is a network infrastructure solution provider that offers stateof-the-art service through a mixed team of local and foreign professionals with the mission of delivering unparalleled service and support to both the Maldivian and international markets. H. Soanary, 5th Floor, Boduthakurufaamu Magu, 20026 Male’, +960 334 4652, info@dhivehiviuga.com

ETALK

Etalk Pvt Ltd provides customers with a unique range of products and services that are fully customisable and suited to homes, local businesses, offices, shops and the hospitality industry. The company designs, installs and services surveillance systems, access control systems, networks, business automation. Husnuheena Magu, 2002 Male', +960 3329132, sales@etalk.com.mv

LINK SERVE

Link Serve Pvt Ltd is the one-stop shop for IT and security requirements. It handles installation & maintenance of CCTV systems, door phone systems, Local Area Networking, PABX Systems, access control systems, time & attendance systems, motion detectors, fire extinguishers, installation solar power systems, installation of alarm systems. +960 300 3000, helpdesk@linkserve.com.mv

MAXCOM

Maxcom Technologies was established in 2005 and is now one of the foremost IT hardware and IT solution centres in the Maldives. It also distributes the brand Dell and offers a variety of products and services such as storage and networking, tablets and laptops. +960 333 0034, sales@maxcom.com.mv

PERSONAL COMPUTERS

Established in 2008, Personal Computers is one of the most reputed names in the IT sector of the Maldives. With two outlets in key areas of Male’ and a dedicated service center, the company provides a comprehensive range of technology solutions that enhance the IT experience of their customers. Personal Computers ensure that the products are 100% genuine and meet the expected quality standards. For inquiries call +960 3003033, info@personalcomputers.mv, personalcomputers.mv

ROSEWARE

RoseWare Corporation Pvt Ltd was established with the objective of providing bestof-breed IT solutions for small and midsize businesses, with skills, resources, and expertise to give clients a recognizable edge while opening up a world of powerful resources. Ma. South Shine, Chandhenee Magu, Male', +960 330 8554, info@rosewarecorp.com

SYSTEMS SOLUTIONS

Serving since 2010, Systems Solutions Pvt. Ltd is an international software development and consulting company. Services provided by the company include IT consultancy, software development, offshore development, outsourcing services, ERP implementations, Content Management Systems (CMS), mobile application development and web development. M. Alia Building, 7th Floor, Gandhakoalhi Magu, Male', Maldives, +960 301 1355, info@solutions.com.mv

DHIRAAGU

Dhiraagu is one of the largest telecommunications operator in the country offering total solutions and a comprehensive range of mobile, internet, data and fixed line services throughout the Maldives. With nearly three decades of excellence and a proven record of success, we provide mobile, enterprise and fixed broadband services. Dhiraagu Head Office, Ameenee Magu, P.O. Box 2082, 20403 Male, +960 332 2802, 123@dhiraagu.com.mv

MEDIANET

Medianet is one of the largest pay-tv broadcasters in the Maldives with over 30,000 subscribers. The company has an ever-increasing client base and content. Medianet has acquired the license and rights to the best available contents for this region, and offers impressive packages separately for the hotels and resorts in the Maldives. Medianet Pvt Ltd, H.Sisil Hiya (Second Floor), Majeedhi Magu, 20071, Male', +960 332 0800, customerservice@medianet.com.mv

OOREDOO

Ooredoo Maldives provides an extensive range of innovative voice, data and high speed broadband internet services tailored to the growing needs of today’s consumers and businesses. Ooredoo's services include fixed & wireless broadband internet, total resort solutions, mobile money services, and smart solutions. Ooredoo made history by launching the first ever and fastest 3G & 4G networks in the Maldives. H. Sunleet, 5th Floor PO Box 2196 Boduthakurufaanu Magu Male', +960 961 1000, 929@ooredoo.mv, ooredoo.mv

Logistics & Transportation

ASIA FORWARDING

Asia Forwarding is intimately acquainted with the carriers in all trade lanes so that they can direct your cargo in the most suitable way, whether your goal is to minimize freight costs, obtain the best packing, storage and warehousing, or meet seemingly ‘impossible’ deadlines. Asia Forwarding is a didicated team of professionals attending to your needs in a professional manner. +960 334 3041, info@theasiaforwarding.com

CENTURION TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS

Centurion PLC's operations revolve around shipping, freight management, warehousing, distribution, logistics management, ship ownership & management, protection & indemnity. Providing reliable and effective transport solutions to the shipping and airline industry, specializing in the delivery of cargo to any location within Maldives. The company operates from three locations in the Maldives, covering the nothern and southern ports. Faamudheyrige, Orchid Magu, Male', Maldives, +960 333 8530, info@centurion.mv, centurion.mv

LEO TRADING

Leo Trading Pvt. Ltd. started its operation in the early 2000s. The key expert areas of the company include leasing of heavy construction equipment, shipment clearance, cargo clearance, discharging shipments, excavating, back filing & compacting, and constructing underwater pipelines and sewerage systems. Leo Trading Pvt. Ltd, M. Three & One, Haveeree Hingun, Male', Maldives, leo@leotrading.mv, +960 300 6638

LITUS

Established in 2012, Litus Maldives Pvt Ltd is a project logistics management company delivering cost-effective solutions throughout the Maldives. The company develops comprehensive project logistics and construction materials and resort supply service plans tailored to meet specific requirements of customers. M. Manaaziruge, Majeedheemagu, 20305, Male’, +960 300 3999, info@litusmaldives.com, litusmaldives.com

TTS

Total Transport Solutions is one of the leading shipping, freight forwarding & logistics service providers in the Maldives. They offer a range of products and services varying from liner agencies, feeder operations, airline GSA, vessel husbanding and project cargo logistics. Additionally providing services such as sea freight, Air Freight, Express Courier to the most recent expansion into Inter-Atoll Logistics, bunkering and many other services7th Floor, Ma. Maadheli, Majeedhee Magu, Male', +960 301 1888, info@ttsgroup.mv

Office Supply & Printing Services

ASRAFEE BOOKSHOP

Asrafee Bookshop was established in 1976. Since then the company has earned a reputation for offering a wide range of products from stationery, educational materials, books, art supplies and so on. Asrafee Bookshop, Chaandhanee Magu, Male', +960 332 3424, asrafee@asrafee.com

CHANDLIER

Chandelier Company Pvt Ltd is a stationery and office equipment supplier in the Maldives. The company deals with government offices, schools, banks, organizations, hotels and resorts as well as the private sector. +960 332 7858, sales@chandelier.com.mv

COPIER PLUS

Copier plus Pvt. Ltd. was established with the focus of providing a total office automation solution to the Maldives. With Toshiba tech on board, Copier Plus was launched in 2004 with a showroom and a service center. In 2008, the company added Brother International’s merchandise to its product line. H. Kuredimaage, Majeedhee Magu, Male', 960 331 2121, info@copierplus.com.mv, copierplus.com.mv

M7 PRINT

M7 Print Pvt Ltd. was established in December 2007. The company's products and services include offset printing and production of eco-friendly paper shopping bags and other products and solutions. It is one of the largest printers in the country proving retail and wholesale services across all the economic sectors.

M7 Print, Ameeneemagu, Male', 20033, +960 330 7787, print@m7maldives.com, m7maldives.com

NOVELTY PRINTERS & PUBLISHERS

Novelty Printers & Publishers Pvt. Ltd. was founded in 1965 by Mr. Ali Hussain as a home business. From manual stencil to letterpress to offset printing, the company today is one of the nation's largest and leading providers of printing, publishing and related services. M. Utility, Male, 20340, +960 331 8844, printers.novelty.com.mv, novelty.com.mv

PROCURE PLUS

Procure Plus supplies office stationery, including printers, printer toner & cartridges, and computer accessories, tea room facilities, cleaning appliances and document solutions at competitive prices. Penton Villa, Male', +960 332 6220, sales@procuremaldives.com, procuremaldives.com

Safety and Security

ANTIFIRE

Antifire Maldives deals with various safety products including fire extinguishers, fire alarm systems, fire hose reel systems, dry riser systems, hydrant systems and automatic fire suppression systems. G. Graces, Male', +960 331 0322, admin@ antifiremaldives.com, antifiremaldives.com

GAGE

GAGE Pvt Ltd provides security with round the clock coverage and ensures the safety of their clients. The company's services are rendered by skilled professionals in an organised and disciplined manner. H. Noomuraka, 1st Floor, Hadheebee Magu, Male', +960 330 4055, projects@gage.com.mv, gage.com.mv

GLOBAL FIRE SERVICES

Global Fire Services Pvt Ltd is dedicated to protecting lives, properties and the environment from the perils of fire. With highly qualified professionals, latest technologies and years of experience, the company uses modern fire prevention methods and progressive public safety education for the benefit of the community. M. Kadhuruma, Fandiyaaru Magu, Male’, Maldives, +960 301 6616, info@gfsmaldives.com, gfsmaldives.com

PESTEX MALDIVES

PestEX Maldives is engaged in importing and distributing pest control products to both domestic and corporate clients. Additionally PestEX Maldives is a trusted pest management service provider of many corporate bodies such as resorts, restaurants, safari boats, commercial and industrial sites etc. PestEX Building, Neeloafaru Magu, Galolhu, 333 8009, info@pestexmaldives.com

PESTERMINATORS

Pesterminators Pvt. Ltd. is not just another pest control company that sells chemicals. Pesterminators is a unique concept developed by Agro Services with the motive of being the one-stop-shop for all pest control requirements. +960 334 2930, info@pesterminators.com.mv

SAVIOURS

Saviours Pvt. Ltd. is a customer oriented company, intending to serve the market need for a professional and customer focused security and safety solution provider. The company emphasises services and support, as well as offers a wide range of quality products which are state-of-the-art. 7999966, info@savioursmaldives.com

Travel Agent & Tour Operator

ACE TRAVELS MALDIVES

Ace Travels Maldives provides both inbound and outbound tours in the Maldives. The company is a fully owned subsidiary of Aitken Spence Travels Pvt Ltd. Aitken Spence Travels is a joint venture between Aitken Spence PLC and TUI Travel PLC. Ace Travels Maldives, H. East Light, Ameer Ahmed Magu, Male', +960 3338026, sales@acetravelsmaldives.com

CANOPUS MALDIVES

Canopus Maldives offers a range of services to clients, including destination management through Aqua Sun, which offers complete solutions to inbound services to the Maldives. Moreover it supplies award-winning Atomix and AlMakreb brand speedboats through Surpass, who also supplies Italian coffee and coffee makers for homes, restaurants and offices. +960 332 1079, info@canopusmaldives.com

CAPITAL TRAVEL & TOURS

Capital Group is a network of companies owned and managed by the principle company Capital Travel & Tours Private Limited, established in 1991. The company's primary actvity initially was to operate as an in-bound travel agent in the Maldives. Today, Capital Travel has well over 500 partners around the world. M. Banff Villa, 4th Floor, Majeedhee Magu, Male’, +960 331 5089, capital@ dhivehinet.mv, capitaltravel.com

SPLENDID ASIA

Splendid Asia is a tour operator based in the Maldives. The company offers tours of the Maldives' beautiful beaches and divespots while offering a range of activities and sports. Splendid Asia is dedicated in promoting the cultural and natural treasures of the Maldives. G. Kasthoorige, Male', +960 331 2460, info@splendidasia.com, splendidasia.com

SUNLAND TRAVEL

With more than 30 years of experience in holiday operating, Sunland Group diversified to Sunland Journeys in 2014. Sunland was established in 1988 and its travel arm arranges personalised journeys for travellers via Singapore Airlines. H. Moonlit Villa, 1st Floor, Medhuziyaaraiy Magu, Male, +960 331 0031, airsvc@ sunland.com.mv, sunlandjourneys.com

VOYAGES MALDIVES

Established in 1980, Voyages Maldives is one of the leading travel and tour companies in the Maldives. Voyages has over 30 years of invaluable experience in the industry and is labelled as one of the largest companies of its kind. M. Narugis, Chaandhanee Magu, Male', +960 332 2019, tours@voyagesmaldives.com, voyagesmaldives.com

Wellness

COSMERC

Cosmerc Maldives Pvt Ltd is a company with several years of experience. The company's collection features a wide range of organic shampoos, shower gels, body lotions and other cosmetic and beauty products. M. Naka, Jambu Magu, Male', Maldives, +960 991 5588, sales@cosmerc.com, cosmerc.com

DUNIYE SPA

Duniye Spa, a leading spa-wellness management & consultancy company in the Maldives, was founded in 2002 by a group of international hotel owners with the vision to provide a special place for holistic well-being and world class spa treatments. Duniye Spa, Champa Building, 3rd floor, 20187 Male', Republic of Maldives, T. +960 664 3157, duniyespasdirector@meeru.com

MEDICAL SWISS BEAUTY

Medicsl Swiss Beauty allows customers to unwind and enjoy the benefits of beauty treatments in a centre devoted exclusively to health & rejuvenation. H. Starlit Villa (Ground Floor), Abadhah Fehi Magu, Male', +960 797 500

SERENA SPA

Serena Spa: a haven of peace & tranquility set against the ambience of natural beauty, for those who wish to relax, restore and rejuvenate body, mind and spirit. Operating in 9 locations in the Maldives, Serena Spa's boutique offers an eclectic selection of spa products, including incense, massage oils, bath blitzes, burners and more. Serena Spa Pvt Ltd, M. West End, Male', Maldives, +960 331 3866, maldives@serenaspa.com