Hotel Insider - Maldives (Issue No. 15)

Word from the Top

- Ibrahim Nahid

Cover Story

- The evolution of the construction sector

Conversation

- Raidah Ibrahim

CONTENTS

COVER STORY: THE EVOLUTION OF THE CONSTRUCTION SECTOR

We shed some light on the Maldives’ construction industry, whose health is tied to that of the tourism sector, and explore a major player and the industry’s latest trends in our cover story.

CONVERSATION

- RAIDAH IBRAHIM

Hotel Insider delves into the workings of a major local contractor Aima Construction, who has built some of the Maldives’ most iconic projects so far including Crossroads and Patina Maldives.

UNDP MALDIVES

Read about an all-women led initiative that revives coconut plantations, acts to preserve culture while boosting community income.

IN THE BOARDROOM

- AHMED RAFIU

Ahmed Rafiu heads Salzen Pvt Ltd, a company that specialises in shore protection. They have recently done some work in Dubai and our interview touches on that and more.

WORD FROM THE TOP

- IBRAHIM NAID

Ibrahim Nahid heads one of the oldest and biggest names in our hospitality landscape: Paradise Island Resort. We touch on Nahid’s start in tourism, the ideal hospitality candidate, how Nahid dealt with the pandemic and more.

WORKING WOMEN

- MALSA SHIYAM

As a fresh graduate, Malsa Shiyam followed her heart to Cheval Blanc Randheli where she laid the foundation for her career in hospitality.

(continued on page 6)

ON THE COVER: Patina Maldives Fari Islands, a stunning hotel that foregrounds nature, designed by Marcio Kogan and built by Aima Construction Pvt Ltd.

premier BROKERS PVT LTD

BACK OF THE HAUS - INTERCONTINENTAL MALDIVES

MAAMUNAGAU

What’s going on behind this superstar hotel’s charming façade? We take a peek behind the veil and it turns out they’re doing some very interesting stuff indeed.

TOURISM BULLETIN

- JANUARY & FEBRUARY

Selected industry stories from January and February to keep you in the loop.

MARKETPLACE

A quick guide to suppliers, financial institutions, in short everyone useful for hoteliers.

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

The

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Happy Easter Holidays!

Welcome to the latest edition of Hotel Insider, where we are focusing on construction-related topics.

This issue features a cover story that explores the interdependent relationship between the construction and hospitality industries. Our thriving hospitality sector has been driving the construction boom, and we hope to see this trend continue.

In Conversation, we showcase Raidah Ibrahim, an executive director of Aima Construction, a local contractor with extensive experience that has delivered some of the most defining resort projects of recent years.

Meanwhile, in Working Women, we highlight the exceptional talent and achievements of Malsa Shiyam, a young woman who displays her skills at the Ritz-Carlton Maldives

Fari Islands. Our popular Back of the Haus section see us peeking behind the scenes at the InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau, where we discover some of the resort's ecofriendly features. In addition, we sit down with Ibrahim Nahid, the general manager at Paradise Island Resort, who shares his experience of managing a resort during the pandemic and provides a glimpse of upcoming changes at Paradise Resort.

Before we part, I want to wish you all a joyful Easter holiday. Happy reading!

bit.ly/3FHe7VF

Mariyam Athif Editor

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

Conversation

Raidah Ibrahim

Aima Construction Pvt Ltd is a company with a three-decade long history and some of the Maldives’ most iconic tourist projects in its portfolio. These include the country’s first integrated tourism development Crossroads Maldives, and most recently the luxurious Patina Maldives in the Fari Islands archipelago in North Male' Atoll. We have a chat with Raidah Ibrahim, an Executive Director at Aima, about what sets her company apart from other contractors, the challenges they faced in developing a resort during a pandemic, and what developers can expect when they work with Aima plus more in this edition of Conversation.

Hotel Insider: Aima worked on some of the most iconic resort projects in the Maldives including Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru, Crossroads, Patina. What can developers expect when they partner with Aima on resort projects?

Raidah: One of the key competitive advantages we offer developers is our local knowhow. We’ve worked in construction for a long time now and we know that each project comes with its own set of challenges.

Each island is different. For instance, the geographical location of the island can create challenges if the island lies on the edge of an atoll. Then it could be exposed to waves during the monsoons and so this needs to be taken into account during the planning stage of the project, in deciding where to place storage, temporary facilities and so on.

The point being, a native’s knowledge of the island is key here. Of course, there are great contractors abroad but they won’t have a local contractor’s familiarity with our environment or our knowhow. These include knowing the most appropriate construction methods and approaches to use, and facing the logistical challenges of working in an island nation. Plus, a key advantage we have over foreign contractors is that we will always have our

team ready to be deployed as needed during the maintenance period.

Another thing I’d like to mention is that in building Crossroads and Patina and we’ve dealt with many challenges. Patina, for instance, was a design & build project and we learned a lot from that.

Hotel Insider: Could you tell our readers what a design & build project is?

Raidah: So, it’s basically fleshing out a concept. We get a concept design and we develop it with structural and architectural detail drawings. We make the concept ready for construction. It’s very different from conventional contracts where all detail drawings are provided. Most projects just involve execution.

Design & build projects benefit the client in several ways. It can lead to savings in cost and time, which are agreed on at the start, during the tender stage. Also, the risk is passed on to the contractor. And as the concept developer, the contractor has a deeper understanding of the design, allowing for a seamless transition from design to construction and this can help save time.

One more thing – when overseas architects and engineers design resorts here, they often don’t understand the local environment on a

deep level. This results in overdesigning –structural designs may be over reinforced for example. This is unnecessary and wasteful but we, as a local contractor and concept developer, can help avoid this leading to cost savings for the client.

Hotel Insider: How would you compare yourself with other Maldives contractors?

Raidah: It might be very difficult to find local companies that match Aima’s scale and range of projects in terms of resort construction.

Aima has a well-designed financial structure, specifically geared for major resort projects and we use enterprise resource planning software for streamlined administration.

We also have a reliable supplier pool, which enables us to deliver high-quality products on time and have a fleet of vessels, vehicles, and machinery to start work on short notice. As we are constantly working on projects, we keep a stock of materials that can be mobilised very quickly as well.

Aima also has a large, experienced workforce, and a highly experienced site team. We prioritise their safety and wellbeing and this has helped us avoid major incidents and achieve a high rate of progress.

We are also environment conscious, and incorporate green technology into our products and services with a view to go zero-carbon in the future.

I suppose the strongest indication that we are at the top of our game comes from our partners – we’ve had a long and fruitful relationship with Hotel Properties Limited (HPL), having worked with Four Seasons from the early 2000s. I’d like to add that our most recent client, the DAMAC Group of Dubai, is quoted in the media as stating that we had exceeded their expectations in a highly competitive selection process.

Hotel Insider: Let’s talk about Crossroads – it was a huge undertaking, a unique, integrated tourism project. What were some of the things you took home from this?

Raidah: At Crossroads, we had to deal with two methods of construction. One is precast concrete which is a method where concrete components are produced in a reusable mould and then brought to site. The investors brought in concrete beams from Thailand and about 30 percent of these were damaged in transportation.

It affected our work as we had to make a hybrid system – combining the two methods of precast structures and cast in-situ and this proved a considerable challenge.

Also, we were given the very short timeframe of 14 months and this was a great challenge. It was the first project where we

worked on a reclaimed island. So, we had to put up with high temperatures as there was no shade and this proved difficult as well.

Hotel Insider: Could you tell us about your experience with Patina Maldives? You were working on the project during the pandemic.

Raidah: You’ve seen Patina, it’s a big island of over 44 hectares – it’s like a tiny city. And in many aspects, it’s better than the vast majority of cities – you have so many environmentally friendly features in place like heat recovery from generators to warm up hot water in the bathrooms and solar PV systems to generate power. We proposed and used new building materials like cross-laminated timber (CLT) in the construction of the resort. It’s a type of engineered wood that’s environmentally friendly, well-insulated, strong and a lot lighter than traditional building materials.

However, the pandemic struck when the project was more than half complete. It was devastating to us – it ran up the costs and time. We required a lot of specialised items and the people who carry such are few. They were under full lockdown as well so sourcing was very challenging – we had to find new suppliers.

In constructing Patina, we had to be keenly aware of how they were positioning themselves – a room that sold for $30,000 a night must be perfect. We can only achieve such perfection with very skilled people and excellent materials and products, it is impossible otherwise.

I’d also like to add that because of its environmentally friendly design and construction, the Fari Islands Archipelago received EDGE buildings advanced certifications. And this let the owning company Pontiac Land Group convert their bank loans for the project into very low interest green loans.

Hotel Insider: Let’s talk about your project with DAMAC. When do you think it will be done? It’s a huge project.

Raidah: It’s our biggest project so far, built again on a reclaimed island. There will be one large hotel, The Mandarin Oriental, spread across three islands connected by bridges. The resort will have 120 rooms, extremely spacious units. At peak work time, there’ll be 2000 workers on site. It’s expected to take just a little over two years. We’re very happy with the pace of work, it seems to be going very well.

Hotel Insider: We wish you the best of luck. Thank you very much for sitting down with us.

"In constructing Patina, we had to be keenly aware of how they were positioning themselves – a room that sold for $30,000 a night must be perfect."

Haveeree

Malé

Maldives

habeysmaldives@gmail.com

UNDP Maldives

The Wonder Women and their Wonder Palm

All Women-Led Initiative Revives Coconut Plantations, Preserves Culture, and Boosts Community Income - featuring GEF-SGP/UNDP supported Meedhoo Ekuveringe Cheynu – Addu Atoll.

The tree of life

For many, the picture of a tropical island of the Maldives isn’t complete without the verdant presence of coconut palms. Its distinctive silhouette contours a prelude to sandy beaches and clear blue seas that glitter below.

For the Maldives, coconut trees are not just ornamental signs of an island paradise. It is of historical and cultural significance and is the country’s national tree as well as one of the symbols of the Maldivian emblem. For Maldivians, it is also the ‘tree of life’: from its woody trunk all the way up to the swaying fronds, the coconut palm has been providing a bounty of natural resources for the Maldivian people for generations.

Fibers extracted from the husk of the coconut fruit makes coir rope. It’s cooling and energizing sweet nectar is a soothing balm for the equatorial heat, with the fruit grated out for culinary delights and the shells cleverly utilized to make utensils or used as charcoal to grill the fresh catch of the day from the seas. The solid palm wood used to be the foundation of boatbuilding in the Maldives, with traditional sailboats - the Maldivian ‘dhoani’ - carved out of its sturdy trunks, replaced over time by fiberglass, yet still in use to make furniture. Ekels or hard straws are extracted from the fallen palm leaves and bound together for use as a broom. Today, palm leaves are also used to make decorative thatching that is bought by resorts to reflect the Maldivian aesthetic in their villas. The roots are used in ‘Dhivehi beys’ to make

Shaffaf Rizwan – Founder of NGO Meedhoo Ekuveringe Cheynu

traditional medicine…

It is under the shade of this wonder palm that Shaffaf Rizwan and her all-woman team of mighty crusaders gather to tell their story of the coconut tree. They are Meedhoo Ekuveringe Cheynu – an NGO from Hulhumeedhoo Island in Addu Atoll, in the Southernmost tip of the Maldivian archipelago.

A sapling for a dream

“We’ve fought all sorts of spirits to get where we are,” Shaffaf, the Founder of the NGO tells us. “The patriarchy, the system, evil eye, the crows – you name it.” She is standing amidst the plot of land that hosts the NGO’s coconut plantation, located adjacent to the island’s waste disposal plant.

In defiance of the gloomy landscape, hundreds of budding coconut saplings grow, their fronds stretching out like vibrant green fans, adding a splash of color to the surrounding coarse earth.

Despite an unseemly setting, for the women of Meedhoo Ekuveringe Cheynu, it was a moment of triumph when the S. Meedhoo Island Council provided them the land intended to revive the island’s coconut plant

population, which had degraded and seen a steady decline over the years.

The dregs of development paints a murky picture everywhere. In most Maldivian islands, crater-like holes have begun to appear, some filled with dry leaves and others left as barren pits. These bald patches are the places where mature coconut trees used to stand tall. Trees uprooted to make way for concrete structures or sometimes sold to beautify resorts.

Hulhumeedhoo has roughly the land area of New York's Central Park, but unlike many other islands, it does not teem with sunbathing Europeans. Its broad dirt roads are often deserted, flanked by hibiscus, lemon-orange impatiens, and papaya, rose apple and banana plants. The islanders have long relied on cultivating coconut and other tropical produce that can be sold outside of their shores.

One such produce that comes from Hulhumeedhoo island and predominantly Addu region (and famous the country over) is the ‘Addu Bondi’: a traditional Maldivian delicacy whose essence is a lush mixture of grated coconut, splashes of jasmine water and palm sugar syrup, carefully crafted into a sweet and crunchy snack, served during special occasions and festive events and best

enjoyed with a cup of piping black tea.

A culinary creation with its own historical, cultural and socio-economic relevance, Addu Bondi was a source of commerce for people from the Southern region who used the sweet treat to trade with other Maldivian Atolls and as far as neighboring Sri Lanka.

This once staple of South Maldivian culture, authentic Bondi production is now at risk of disappearing. The younger generations lack the knowledge and skills required to create the delicacy, and most of the Bondi being made today is an imitation of the original, as refined sugar started being used as a substitute for locally produced palm sugar from Maldivian coconut trees - a key ingredient in the authentic recipe. The shortage of skilled toddy tappers and the scarcity of young, healthy coconut palms that can be tapped for its toddy have made palm sugar an expensive and hardto-source ingredient.

As a result, Bondi makers have been forced to explore cheaper alternatives, which have ultimately threatened the culinary art of making Addu Bondi. This shift away from tradition is jilting an important facet of South Maldivian culture, leaving many to wonder whether the art of making authentic Bondi will

Meedhoo Ekuveringe Cheynu members tending to their coconut trees

Naseema and her granddaughter Suha making bondi

Bondi making in progress

survive for future generations to enjoy.

Meedhoo Ekuveringe Cheynu stepped in and are in the works to create ‘Meedhoo Bendi’ – their name for the Addu Bondi being produced using their coconut trees. They are kick-starting their project assisted by the Global Environment Facility (GEF) Small Grants Programme (SGP), implemented by the United Nations Development Programme in the Maldives.

The NGO’s project is expected to generate multiple benefits from its multifaceted focus on the process of making Addu Bondi:including preserving the island's culture, providing a boost in income for community members, particularly women, opening diverse livelihood opportunities such as making palm sugar - a coveted product in the local market.

In doing so, the project will introduce the younger generation to professions not only limited to just cultivating coconut palms and crafting Bondi in its most authentic form but introduce a métier that was once on par with fishing in the Maldives, toddy tapping. Collecting toddy from coconut palms required a high skill set with the practitioners scaling palm trees as tall as two storey buildings – it wasn’t a job for just anyone but the spoils was the highly valuable sap of the coconut palm –toddy.

Toddy, used in many cultural food and medicine; is in fact what palm sugar – one of the main ingredients of Addu Bondi, is made from. However, the profession became scarce over time with only a few known practitioners scattered around the country. This is one facet, amongst many, of Maldivian culture that Meedhoo Ekuveringe Cheynu hopes to remedy with their project, Revival of Coconut Palms

and Culture.

In addition to producing and marketing Meedhoo Bendi, the project will also open easy access to coconut palm products such as coconut frond for thatch weaving - another high value product in the tourism industry. By rehabilitating the coconut palm groves, the project will rejuvenate the declining coconut palm population of the island and secure biodiversity and the integrity of the island’s ecosystem.

It’s a scary world, but it isn’t hopeless

Several lanes down the women’s coconut plantation, Mariyam Suha Waseem is assisting her grandmother Naseema Ali in a small and compact kitchen hut, where a fire blazes fueled by coconut shells and husks underneath a sturdy wok, as Naseema vigorously stirs its contents – the sticky coconut mixture which would after hours of labour turn into the delightfully thick concoction used to make the Meedhoo Bendi. Once cooled, Naseema delicately rolls the mixture into kebab-shapes, wrapping them in dried banana leaves and tying them with string on both ends much like a sweet.

For Suha, a member of the NGO, it is a precious experience to learn the art from her grandmother. “I have a young child to take care of. But this is not only about earning an income. I am so glad to share this special bond with my maama, and so grateful for the opportunity to carry on the tradition."

Naseema herself is matter of fact. “This dish is more than just a recipe, it's a part of our island's heritage and I'm happy to see it continue,” she relays to UNDP’s Enrico Gaveglia.

“Women leaders and entrepreneurs are rising, leading cultural revival, income generation and environmental regenerationbringing into profitability a business against all odds,” Enrico acknowledged, eagerly accepting the Meedhoo Bendi Naseema hands him.

The women of NGO Meedhoo Ekuveringe Cheynu faced numerous obstacles in trying to make their project a reality. “Being an allwomen team trying actually grow and produce something sustainably, and market that product and make a profit has been a major challenge, but we will not give up,” Shaffaf says.

The revival of the coconut palms and Addu Bondi is more than just a business venture for the women of Meedhoo Ekuveringe Cheynu. It is a symbol of their love for their island and their determination to preserve its heritage, and ecosystem for future generations. The story of these wonder women is a testament to the power of community, hard work, and passion in making a difference.

“It’s a scary world out there when you are a woman on a mission, but it isn’t hopeless,” Shaffaf smiles through a firm nod.

* The Small Grants Programme (SGP) is a corporate programme of the Global Environment Facility (GEF) implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) since 1992. SGP grant making in over 125 countries promotes community-based innovation, capacity development, and empowerment through sustainable development projects of local civil society organizations with special consideration for indigenous peoples, women, and youth. SGP has supported over 20,000 community-based projects in biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and adaptation, prevention of land degradation, protection of international waters, and reduction of the impact of chemicals, while generating sustainable livelihoods.

Photos: Yujuan Jing UNDP Maldives

Labels prepared by the NGO for their Addu Bendi

Meedhoo Bendi being packaged for consumption

In the Boardroom

Ahmed Rafiu

Hotel Insider has a chat with Ahmed Rafiu, chairman of Salzmen Private Limited. They are known for their work in coastal protection and are currently engaged in a project on Zuha Island, from The World Islands in Dubai. We touch on this and more in this edition of In the boardroom.

Hotel Insider: Could we start off by talking about your key services so our audience can understand you better?

Rafiu: Sure. So, we specialise in various coastal protection solutions and marine infrastructure such as beach nourishment, construction of seawalls, groynes, and jetties. Also, we are experts in the restoration and conservation of natural coastal ecosystem such as mangroves and other vegetation near the coastline.

Hotel Insider: Maybe we can talk about methods and materials used to offer better protection to coastlines.

Rafiu: We use a variety of materials based on the location, such as sand, rock boulders, concrete and geo fabric materials and a range of natural vegetation. We choose the material based on their adaptability and effectiveness in stabilising the coastal areas. Every solution we propose is customized to the local environmental factors.

Hotel Insider: Where do you get the vegetation from?

Rafiu: Local islands, local nurseries. To protect coastlines, the method we use is beach nourishment. And then we build groynes to reduce the impact of erosion. It will be easy for people to maintain the beach if the groynes are in place. And we do revetments in some cases, and also jetties as well because they help with water circulation. All these methods differ from area to area, island by island, because the environment is totally different.

Hotel Insider: Do you do an EIA?

Rafiu: Yes. The Environment Impact Assessment is mandatory. It’s a regulatory

requirement by the Environmental Protection Authority of the Maldives.

Hotel Insider: But also some independent agencies, right?

Rafiu: The independent, registered EIA consultants will be doing it. EPA will be giving the approval.

Hotel Insider: So, your solutions are based on EIAs approved by the EPA?

Rafiu: Yes. Our solutions will be implemented based on the approved EIA. Additionally, they will be fully compliant with all regulatory requirements.

Hotel Insider: So how long would you assess an island’s environment features before coming up with a solution?

Rafiu: It depends on how much data we can get. So, if the topography and such data are available then we use satellite mapping solutions, and also the climate change projection methods. It will take around 30 days normally to do an initial assessment. Sometimes, it can be done within 20 days.

Hotel Insider: What about things like beach circulation?

Rafiu: We use various numerical modelling methods for that such as wave propagation models and coastal process models to study the complex interactions between waves, sediment and underlying topography.

Hotel Insider: Do you do that yourselves?

Rafiu: To do the modelling, we hire laboratory services from abroad. We feed the data and they create the models.

Hotel Insider: How long do you collect the data for these models?

Rafiu: A lot of data is available from the

Meteorological Center, and also from GPS as well, so you know how the island is evolving. So, if there is a barrier obstructing movement, it’s very easy now to see what will happen. The structures are designed based on this data. Plus, to protect the natural environment of the resorts, there are a few things we need to give them at the beach. It’s not only about protection. The aesthetic considerations are also very important. So, all these consultation processes will take place during the Environmental Impact Assessment. And if there is a reclamation project, then the nearby island communities will also be consulted as well.

Hotel Insider: What was the island that you did some reclamation work on most recently?

Rafiu: The latest one was Intercontinental Maldives Maamunagau.

Hotel Insider: Did you have a meeting with the stakeholders on that project?

Rafiu: Yes, with the nearby islands and nearby resorts as well. It is in fact a regulatory requriment stipulated in the EIA process.

Hotel Insider: Did you have a look afterwards to see how things are going now?

Rafiu: Yes. We do check because those are structures that we have done. We do have a look at it as well. But after the construction period there is a one-year defects liability period. So, during that time we maintain the structures.

Hotel Insider: How do you ensure the longevity and durability of your structures?

Rafiu: Our coastal protection structures’ durability and longevity is our highest priority. To achieve this, we do a thorough job of designing, construction and maintenance. We incorporate appropriate materials and techniques for that specific

location. We also conduct regular inspections and maintenance during the defects liability period and before that as well. We incorporate contingency plans and management strategies as well. For example, if the groynes are done, there will be a maintenance plan as well. So, on one side, there will be more sand, but in the south west monsoon that sand will be shifted to the other side as well.

Hotel Insider: Is there a challenge you face while dealing with government authorities right now?

Rafiu: Time-frame is the only challenge but otherwise the approval process should not have much issues. Sometimes it takes two months or three months.

Hotel Insider: To get the approval?

Rafiu: Yes. The entire process, actually. The EIA takes a lot of time, so to get those approvals it takes time.

Hotel Insider: Are you working on anything unique or new at the moment?

Rafiu: Yes. We’re conducting research into maintaining the beach of resorts consistently and regularly. Right now, we are working on finding a solution to keep the pipes laid for sand pumping within the island. So maybe if this works, then during the operation, you don’t need to bring the heavy machinery to the island, and you don’t need to close the guest villas.

Hotel Insider: You’ve also mentioned the Dubai project. Can we talk about that a bit before concluding?

Rafiu: We are providing coastal protection for Zuha Islands. We make geo bag revetments, a harbour for them, and rock boulder groynes. We conducted the coastal design work for them as well. This project is on-going, and we’re happy with our progress so far. We see that there are a lot of opportunities in the World Islands.

Hotel Insider: Thank you, Rafiu.

"Our coastal protection structures’ durability and longevity is our highest priority. To achieve this, we do a thorough job of designing, construction and maintenance."

Word from the top

Ibrahim Nahid

We had a chat with a Maldivian GM, Ibrahim Nahid, who helms one of the oldest and biggest names in Maldives hospitality: Paradise Island Resort. We talk about Paradise’s rebranding briefly, then touch upon Nahid’s career.

He explains what is meant by ‘the right attitude’ that is sought in candidates wishing to work in tourism, and we go over what it was like to be an operating resort during the calamity that was COVID-19.

Hotel Insider: We hear that Paradise Island Resort is being rebranded, could you tell us about it a bit?

Ibrahim Nahid: We’ve been operating for almost 28 years, and we felt it was time to make some changes and capitalise on our potential. We are making some big changes that we hope will have a positive impact on all stakeholders including our staff, guests, and owners.

We are working with respected consultants who are helping us navigate this transitional period. Our infrastructure is changing to be in line with a new concept. We are upgrading service standards and our offerings in F&B as well. I don’t wish to elaborate further as this is still an ongoing process, but I believe we are on a path to greater success.

Hotel Insider: You’ve had an interesting career with periods abroad working with Six Senses in Thailand and Oman. Can we talk about that?

Ibrahim Nahid: I started out in Paradise back in 1996 and switched to Royal Island in 2001 as part of the pre-opening. As you can imagine, pre-openings are an entirely different ballgame to running an alreadyoperating hotel.

Also, the tourism landscape was very different – there were only a couple of international brands. And after five years at Royal Island, I wanted to know how the big brands managed their hotels. So, I signed up with Six Senses who were running Soneva Gili at the time. I was fortunate to join in their management team.

My time with Six Senses was very rewarding as I had exposure in different countries. I was

"We are making some big changes to the resort that we hope will have a positive impact on all stakeholders including our staff, guests, and owners."

Word from the Top

posted to be part of a pre-opening again at Six Senses Koh Yao Noi in Thailnd, and then I worked with Soneva Kiri, also in Thailand. Later in 2008, I was posted at a Six Senses Zighy Bay in Oman for a pre-opening – it was a beautiful hotel with stunning Arabic architecture. Once the hotel was receiving guests, I returned to the Maldives and continued my career in hospitality, enriching my experience through working with other well-known brands.

Hotel Insider: How would you contrast the hospitality of Thailand, Oman, and ours?

Ibrahim Nahid: I think Thai hospitality is very warm and genuine, it’s there in the people. It’s kind of similar to ours – we have the DNA of our ancestors who welcomed travelling people into their own homes like family. It’s a bit different in the Middle East I feel, a bit more commercial and business-like. We have standards and best practices in place in all hotels. But you have to think outside the box and tailor your services to individual guests, that’s true hospitality. And this requires familiarity with other cultures and the right mindset or attitude.

Hotel Insider: Could you tell us what the right mindset is?

Ibrahim Nahid: Quite simply, you must find pleasure in serving someone else. I think that’s something inborn in us. I don’t think that it can be taught, and when we select people for our team, that’s the single most important trait we look for.

I’m very proud to lead staff and a Maldivian management who are very dedicated, ambitious and focussed on delivering an excellent service. You don’t have to be a wellknown international brand to do this, and it is how you win over guests.

So, I take the well-being of my staff very seriously, because their interactions with guests determine our performance on [review] platforms. My staff must be taken care of very well.

Hotel Insider: We also thought you could tell us about what it was like to operate a hotel during the pandemic.

Ibrahim Nahid: The pandemic hit us while I was at Holiday Island. It was decided that our island would become a quarantine facility so

we had to evacuate guests quickly. I received instructions at 10am and by 3:30pm, there were no more guests at the resort. We moved most to Sun Island and sent the remaining to Royal Island and Paradise Island.

It was a huge shock – the team was almost in a panic, fearing for their lives. For us, based on the information we had, it was a killer disease. But we stepped up, and we welcomed those who were to quarantine with us like guests.

The day after I took over management of Paradise Island in May 2021, half of our staff were in isolation and so we had just half the staff doing the entire team’s work. Every one of the team was multitasking. So, 18-hour days were the norm and it was gruelling. But we knew it wouldn’t go on forever and we took it day by day. All in all, the pandemic taught us the importance of humility.

Hotel Insider: What do you foresee for the future of our hospitality industry?

Ibrahim Nahid: I feel we need to become more environmentally conscious and safeguard our islands. For instance, here at Paradise we are incorporating renewables into our energy production with solar PV systems producing 1.2 megawatts per day. Plus, we are also working on coral restoration. We’re pleased to be Green Key and Well Health certified.

I also think more locals need to join the industry – we are ready to train and mentor them on their journey to success. I have been in this industry for decades now, and so have my counterparts and we want to hand over the baton to a new generation.

I would also like to say that parents should stop worrying about their children working in hospitality now. It’s a very safe and rewarding industry today, especially for young women, and resorts have in place stringent measures to safeguard their female colleagues.

Hotel Insider: Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Ibrahim Nahid: We are working with schools to familiarise young people with hospitality through our educational programmes. We feel this is needed to build capacity and also to change public perception about our industry.

Hotel Insider: Thank you, Nahid.

"You have to think outside the box and tailor your services to individual guests, that’s true hospitality. And this requires familiarity with other cultures and the right mindset or attitude."

The evolution of the construction sector

In the Maldivian economy, tourism is the only game in town. As the storied hospitality industry elevated a poor island nation to middle-income status over the past halfcentury, its blessings were felt far and wide. The benefits extended well beyond the private islands where the luxury resorts were built. Taxes and other revenues swelled government coffers. Ancillary services sprang up to support the operation of resorts, spurring job creation and boosting wider economic growth.

The construction industry was among the beneficiaries lifted up by the rising tide. Since the first resort opened in 1972, the steady development of new properties has driven the construction sector’s growth. There was plenty of work for resort builders as the bed capacity of tourist establishments increased at an annual rate of 5% between 2000 and 2012. Existing resorts also needed repair, refurbishment and renovation.

Construction boomed as several new islands were leased for resort development between 2004 and 2011. Bed capacity grew by 8,411 during the period. At the turn of the millennium, there were 86 resorts in the Maldives. The number has nearly doubled to 168 resorts in operation as of January 2022. Before the Covid-19 pandemic, construction was the second largest sector in the country, contributing MVR4.8 billion (US$311 million) to GDP in 2019.

In the early years of tourism, local construction companies dominated resort development, honing their skills and

The Maldives tourism industry is evolving from the ‘one-island, one-resort’ concept to integrated multiresort destinations on clusters of manmade islands.

perfecting distinctively Maldivian architectural designs. But as the industry’s focus turned to more high-end properties over the past two decades, more projects were awarded to foreign companies, either as joint ventures or as completely foreign investments. While competition from overseas offered benefits such as technology transfer, local firms struggled to match the better access to capital and other resources of foreign rivals.

But some Maldivian companies continued to grow and thrive, drawing on their experience and familiarity with the tropical environment to gain strategic advantages.

“One of the key competitive advantages we offer developers is our local know-how. We’ve worked in construction for a long time now and we know that each project comes with its own set of challenges,” Raidah Ibrahim, Executive Director at Aima Construction, one of the largest companies in the Maldives, told Hotel Insider in an exclusive interview.

“Each island is different. For instance, the geographical location of the island can create challenges if the island lies on the edge of an atoll. Then it could be exposed to waves during the monsoons and so this needs to be taken into account during the planning stage

of the project.”

Complementing its skilled workforce, Aima also possesses vessels, crafts and vehicles specialised for resort construction in the Maldives. “For example, we have low draft barges that can access very shallow areas,” Raidah noted.

“Integrated resorts”

Over its three-decade history, Aima Construction was mainly enlisted to build villas, water bungalows, restaurants and other facilities on pristine uninhabited islands. But in recent years, the tourism industry has been evolving beyond the unique ‘one-island, oneresort’ concept that has been its cornerstone for the past 50 years.

Enter the ‘integrated resort’ concept. The new trend involves creating artificial islands on shallow lagoons, which is done through land reclamation (dredging sand from the ocean floor). With multiple resorts in the same lagoon, guests could hop over to other hotels, seek different experiences or explore more entertainment or shopping options. Under the old concept, tourists were mostly confined to the same resort hotel during their stay.

Aima was the local contractor of the first integrated tourism development - the Crossroads project on Emboodhoo lagoon. Nine manmade islands emerged out of the lagoon near the capital Malé. Officially opened in September 2019, the multi-island destination hosts the Hard Rock Hotel, the SAii Lagoon transit hotel by Hilton, and the Marina at Crossroads, an 11,000 square metre retail and entertainment space with “luxury shopping, fine dining, a state-of-the-art event hall, and PADI-certified water sports and dive centre.” According to the Thai developer Singha Estate, 376 rooms were built under the US$131 million first phase of the project.

Aima was contracted to build 78 water villas and beach suites as well as retail, office and entertainment buildings along with the dive centre, cultural centre and multi-purpose hall. The company later started work on the Hard Rock Café and four restaurants.

The scope and complexity of the ambitious projects posed challenges. Chief among them was the mixture of traditional execution-based contracts and “design and build” contracts. The latter entails “fleshing out a concept,” according to Raidah.

“We get a concept design and we develop

it with structural and architectural detail drawings. We make the concept ready for construction. It’s very different from conventional contracts where all detail drawings are provided. Most projects just involve execution,” she explained.

With the Crossroads project, Aima followed Singha’s concept. The need to import raw materials also created difficulties and the tight 14-month timeframe for completion proved a difficult task.

"The investors brought in concrete beams from Thailand and about 30 percent of these were damaged in transportation,” Raidah explained. “It affected our work as we had to make a hybrid system – combining the two methods of precast structures and cast in-situ and this proved a considerable challenge.

Mega developments

Buoyed by the monumental success of delivering the Crossroads project on time, Aima was tapped by the Singapore-based Pontiac Land Group to build the Patina Maldives resort, located on one of four manmade islands that make up the Fari Islands in North Malé Atoll. The country’s

second mega development features new properties from the Ritz Carlton and Patina brands. The Capella Maldives is set to open in 2025. As with Crossroads, the integrated resort was planned with a communal area with boutiques, restaurants and beachfront bars for guests at the three hotels.

For Aima, the design and build project of Patina was a valuable growth experience, although “the learning curve was steep and costly.” Disaster struck after the project was over half-way complete as the Covid-19 pandemic shut down essential supply chains, causing unforeseen delays and cost overruns.

Raidah likened Patina to a small city: “And in many aspects, it’s better than the vast majority of cities – you have so many environmentally friendly features in place like heat recovery from generators to warm up hot water in the bathrooms and solar PV systems to generate power.”

After Patina, Aima’s most recent project also involves construction on reclaimed islands. The Mandarin Oriental will be spread across three manmade islands connected via bridges in the Bolidhuffaru lagoon in South Malé Atoll. It is Aima’s biggest project to date with 2,000 workers on site expected during the

peak. Scheduled to open in 2025, the resort will have 120 stand-alone villas, 56 overwater villas, 64 beachfront villas, and 10 branded Residences.

The integrated resort concept appears to be the wave of the future. Nine of 14 islands and lagoons put up for bidding in January 2022 were made available for reclamation. An extension of the 36-month construction period by up to 18 months was offered for the islands and lagoons eligible for reclamation.

The creation of artificial islands has drawn criticism over the environmental damage caused by dredging. But crucially, manmade islands stand at a significantly higher elevation than natural islands. As a low-lying nation of more than 1,000 islands, large-scale reclamation might soon be necessary for the Maldives to survive. Nearly 80% of the country is predicted to become uninhabitable by 2050.

“Most of our islands are just a meter above sea level,” Environment Minister Aminath Shauna told the Japan Times in January. "With the rate of increase in climate change and with the rate of increase in sea-level rise, we will need to build a higher ground.”

Working Women

Malsa Shiyam

Malsa discovered a passion for hospitality at a young age. Fresh out of university, she laid the foundation for her career as a Front Office intern at Cheval Blanc Randheli. In less than ten years, she worked her way up to overseeing the Front Office team at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands.

Hotel Insider: What made you choose a career in hospitality? What inspired you?

Malsa Shiyam: I think hospitality is something I always had within me. My Dad is a huge inspiration and I would consider him one of the most hospitable people that I know. For as long as I can remember, I was always interested in working in the hospitality industry and can still recall when I visited Sun Island with my parents at five years old. My parents were just having a chat at the reception desk with the General Manager and he gave me the opportunity to stand behind the desk and pretend to work. It’s still one of my fondest memories.

Hotel Insider: You started your career as a Front Office intern at Cheval Blanc. Tell us a bit more about that.

Malsa Shiyam: I studied in Male’ until Grade 7 and then moved to Malaysia. I was there for about 7 years where I finished high school and college. After college, I returned to the Maldives and started my internship at Cheval Blanc and primarily focused on the festive season while I was there and that was how my hospitality journey started.

Hotel Insider: Was that when you fell in love with hospitality?

Malsa Shiyam: Yes, I’ve always said that Cheval Blanc was the foundation of my career. My experiences at the resort led me to feel confident in the fact that I wanted to pursue a career in hospitality. I fell in love with Front Office operations right then and there.

Hotel Insider: You also have experience in pre-opening. What does that entail? How is that different from regular operations?

Malsa Shiyam: My first pre-opening experience was at The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands, and I was so excited. The resort was a long-awaited opening and I find myself appreciative of the team at the time. We were comprised of much smaller teams, compared to now, and the bond that we shared truly can’t be broken. We learned together and came up with ideas together which built a strong foundation for the operations of the resort across all departments.

Hotel Insider: What were some of the highlights of your career?

Malsa Shiyam: As I eluded to earlier, my

internship at Cheval Blanc was most certainly a highlight. Following that experience, my first proper job was at One & Only (Reethi Rah). I was a part of the front office team and learned a lot at the resort itself. I was there for about two years and continued to grow throughout. My next challenge was when I moved to St.Regis. That was my first Marriott property, and while it did challenge me it also provided me with profound learning opportunities. That was the beginning of my career with Marriott and that really shared my view on hospitality. There was this one book I read while I was there that really stood out for me. It’s called Excellence Wins by Horst Schulze, who is the Founding President of the Ritz-Carlton Company. At the time, The Ritz-Carlton brand was not represented in the Maldives, however, I knew once it did, I wanted to be a part of it. I wanted to be part of its first Ladies and Gentlemen, and that was the beginning of my journey here.

Hotel Insider: What are your current responsibilities as Front Office Supervisor?

Malsa Shiyam: As Front Office Supervisor, I oversee six staff and assist the team with the day-to-day operations as well as any operational challenges that come up during the day. What I enjoy the most is guiding the team to strive for success because if there’s no one to motivate them, they may not feel empowered to achieve their goals. I always try to guide them and support them by keeping a positive attitude and energy in the office.

Hotel Insider: What do you like most about your role?

Malsa Shiyam: I think it would be dealing with people, guiding the team and working with the guests because at the end of the day there’s a lot of teamwork that goes on behind the scenes to ensure a guest is happy with their stay. I enjoy working across different departments and having that connection with the whole team; it is what keeps me going.

Hotel Insider: What’s a typical workday like for you?

Malsa Shiyam: I like to start my day very early. As you know, Fari Islands is a multiisland archipelago so we have an island campus dedicated to housing the employees of the hotels. I like to wake up early and catch the

ferry while listening to music. That time for myself is very important for me to start the day off right. I tend to arrive earlier than my team and then come to the resort to have my coffee, which is very important! Before everyone comes to the office, I get ready for the daily operations and cross-check what we have for the whole team.

Hotel Insider: You started your career as an intern and have worked your way up. What do you hope to achieve next in your career?

Malsa Shiyam: As a next step in my career, I like to expand my skillsets as learning is something that I’m always very eager to do. I try to learn something new every day and at The Ritz-Carlton, something that I truly admire is our service values. One of my favourite service values is number eight, which is “I have the opportunity to continuously learn and grow”. With that being said, I like to always learn from my managers who have always provided guidance and mentorship. I believe I get to follow the leadership from my Front Office Manager and Assistant Front Office Manager and hope to follow in their footsteps.

Hotel Insider: We are seeing more women in the hospitality industry now than before, and in high positions too. This wasn’t the case even a few years ago. What are your thoughts on this?

Malsa Shiyam: Yes, I think the hospitality industry has changed a great deal over the past years, especially in regards to women and gender equality. It makes me so happy to see so many opportunities for women now, especially in leadership roles.

Hotel Insider: What’s your advice to women who want to choose a career in hospitality?

Malsa Shiyam: Hospitality for me is a passion that I chose to pursue. But for women who want to pursue a career in hospitality, I would say it’s never too late to start something new. If you have the passion for it, the right mindset, and the can-do attitude, I think you can do wonders. At the end of the day, the right mindset and the right attitude will get you to where you want to be.

Back of the Haus

Back of the Haus – The InterContinental Maldives

The InterContinental Maldives Maamunagau Resort may be a newcomer but the hotel is already making waves with its commitment to protect the environment. The resort lies in a potential manta breeding ground and is working closely with the Manta Trust and the EPA to safeguard and preserve this habitat. On top of this, they are also engaged in sustainable practices behind the scenes. Let’s take a closer look.

For starters, the resort is slowly transitioning to solar power. PV panels cover the roofs of back of house buildings and they have a total capacity of 686 kilowatts. On a day like this, which is a bit cloudy, the panels generate about 20% of the resort's 880 kW demand. Plus, the resort has plans to expand its renewable energy resources with its sunny partner SwimSol Maldives.

This man is really crushing it with a glass crusher. The machine takes regular old glass and turns it into a substance like sand which is used in flooring and concrete mixes at the resort.

It takes some work to work this wood shredder. This mechanical beast can chew through 500 kilos of raw plant matter in just two hours, producing material for landscaping and nourishing plants.

3

The resort also has greywater and blackwater systems in place. Greywater from the back of house buildings (including the laundry) is collected, treated, and used for irrigation.

Meanwhile, blackwater, which includes waste from guest bathrooms, is also stored and treated so it can be reused in fire hydrants and fire-fighting systems.

The heat exchangers at the resort are true eco-warriors. By capturing and using the excess heat from the green generators here, they warm up water for use in BOH buildings, including the laundry and even some guest areas, making the resort more sustainable and efficient.

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.

Wednesday, January 4

National carrier Maldivian welcomed its two new ATR 72-600 aircraft with a water salute ceremony at the Velana International Airport. The maintenance cost of the 72-seat fuel-efficient planes will be 20% lower than previous aircraft used by the company, according to Maldivian. The airline’s fleet was expected to grow to 14 with the arrival of a new 42-seat ATR aircraft in late January.

Thursday, January 5

January and February

An overview of the top business news

The Housing Development Corporation invited expressions of interest to develop guesthouses on 15 plots under its ‘Urban Isle’ tourism island project. The state-owned company was seeking investors to build luxury villas, serviced apartments and midscale hotels in a designated zone in the artificial island’s phase two area.

“The island welcomes every type of traveler, from international and domestic visitors, to budget travelers and those seeking an extravagant stay,” HDC explained. “The

properties are positioned to offer short-term stays for transit purposes, as well as long-term stays for residents and digital nomads.”

Saturday, January 7

Amid the peak season of the tourism industry, the Velana International Airport’s air traffic movement record was broken with 605 seaplane and 251 wheelbase movements. A runway movements record after the opening of the 3,400 meter, code-F runway in October was set on 22 December with 104

international flights, 104 domestic flights, and 20 general aviation (private jets).

Thursday, January 19

The State Trading Organisation announced a collaboration with Sap Ariba for a new supplier business cooperation network, which would “ensure the consolidation and control of all our spending, from source to pay.”

Instead of emails, the cloudbased online network will now

Above: National carrier Maldivian welcomes two new aircraft to its fleet.

be used for all communications with suppliers, reducing the time spent on procurement from five days to five hours, according to the state-owned behemoth, which conducted business transactions worth MVR15 billion (US$972 million) in 2022. Bid announcements, seeking quotations, order confirmations, and delivery notifications can be made through the platform. Suppliers can use the service free of charge.

Wednesday, January 25

The Bank of Maldives increased the financing limit of its personal unsecured loan to MVR1.2 million (US$77,821). “From today, the Bank will have a single ‘BML Lui Loan’ to cater for all personal borrowing requirements,” the bank explained. “BML Islamic Personal Financing will also offer customers Sharia’h compliant financing up to

Below: A graphical representation of the financial performance of the State Trading Organisation in 2022.

MVR 1.2 million which can be used to purchase products or as cash financing. With this change, the Bank will now consider salary as well as any other income for both Lui Loan and Personal Financing.”

Thursday, January 26

The State Trading Organisation

Above: A Bank of Maldives ATM Centre in Male'. posted a record operating profit of MVR1 billion (US$64.8 million) for 2022. Record-breaking revenues of MVR18 billion for the year was up 79% from 2021. The annual profit of MVR789 million also represented a 52% increase from the previous year.

Monday, January 30

Royal Boskalis Westminster MV was awarded a US$130 million contract for the second phase of the Gulhifalhu land reclamation project. The Dutch dredging company completed the first phase of the project in 2022. The government plans to relocate the international port from Malé to the new artificial island. A bridge to connect the capital to Gulhifalhu and the industrial island of Thilafushi is under construction.

Tuesday, January 31

The Bank of Maldives earned a net profit after tax of MVR1.48 billion (US$96 million) in 2022, according to the bank’s fourth quarter report.

“Underlying Profit After Tax

was higher than the previous year. Total Assets for the year grew by almost MVR 3 billion while customer deposits grew by MVR 1.8 billion. The Bank recorded MVR 4.3 billion in new loans to businesses and individuals in 2022, with continued improvement in the loan book quality. Capital and liquidity ratios remain solid and well above regulatory requirements,” the report stated.

Wednesday, February 1

The Bank of Maldives lifted controls imposed on issuing US dollars due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which limited withdrawals to US$2,000 a month.

With effect on 1 February, customers will be able to withdraw up to US$1,600 a day from ATMs in Malé, Hulhumalé and the Velana International Airport.

“Furthermore, customers with debit cards linked to a USD account as a primary account can continue to use cards for

foreign transactions up to USD 3,000 daily. International Money Transfers through Internet or Mobile Banking can also be processed from USD accounts,” according to BML.

Thursday, February 2

The Housing Development Corporation announced the sale of land from Thilafushi for industrial purposes. HDC – the state-owned developer of the manmade islands Hulhumalé, Gulhifalhu and Thilafushi near the capital Malé – invited expressions of interest with a minimum price of MVR1,700 (US$100) per square feet. If the bid winner is a foreign party, the plot of land would be leased for 99 years.

Saturday, February 4

The state-owned Island Aviation Services – operator of the national carrier Maldivian and several domestic airports – invited bids for the expansion of the Noonu Maafaru International Airport’s terminal.

IAS was seeking to expand the terminal’s capacity from 100 to 300 passengers along with new lounges and space for immigration purposes. The airport in the northern atoll was built with a US$60 million grant from the Abu Dhabi Fund. It is located within proximity of high-end resorts such as Soneva Jani, Velaa Private Island, Cheval Blanc Randheli and Sun Siyam Irufushi.

Maafaru presently caters to several private jets. A new fuel farm recently developed was expected to be operational in late February. In December, the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company was contracted to expand the airport’s runway. The US$27 million project was to be completed in one year.

Wednesday, February 8

The Maldives Tourism Development Corporation unveiled its new logo and website at a ceremony held to mark the government-owned company’s 15th anniversary. MTDC paid dividends in 2021 for the first time in 11 years as profits rose more than 300% from the previous

year. Its main income source is rent from two subleased five-star resorts: Anantara Kihavah Villas and Ayada Maldives. A new property is under development on Haa Dhaal Naagoshi in partnership with Dubai’s R.A.W Galadari. The 1,600-bed resort on the 73-hectare island would be one of the largest single-island properties in the Maldives.

Speaking at the anniversary function in Kurumba resort, Thazmeel Abdul Samad, MTDC’s managing director, said Naagoshi was expected to open in 2024. Whilst Galadari owns an 85% stake in the resort, MTDC would earn a fixed portion of profits under the joint venture deal, he said.

Above: HDC unveils Thilafushi Industrial Hub masterplan

Thazmeel also announced plans to develop and operate a 230-bed resort with an investment of US$35 million. The company is looking for a suitable uninhabited island that can be reached within 20 minutes by seaplane from the Malé airport. Locations under consideration include previously leased islands where development has stalled or new islands put up for bidding in January.

Construction of a new sevenstorey office building at a 6,000 square feet plot purchased in Hulhumalé is meanwhile scheduled to begin in the second quarter, he said.

The government owns a 47% stake of MTDC with 53% of shares held by the public. The company has more than 24,000 shareholders. Earlier

this month, MTDC posted a profit of US$2.9 million for 2022, down significantly from US$10.2 million in 2021. While revenue was higher in 2022, cost of operations grew by 25% compared to the previous year.

The repayment period for Covid-19 relief loans can be extended to eight years and six months upon request, the finance ministry announced. Businesses could also apply to extend the grace period to 19 months.

As part of the government’s economic relief package rolled out in early 2020, the Covid-19 recovery loans were made to large businesses such as resorts to provide working capital and help retain staff. The loans were issued through the Bank

of Maldives to be repaid within three years with a six-month grace period, which was later extended to one year and then 19 months.

Requests for loan rescheduling can be mailed to BML within 60 days, after which the finance ministry “reserves the right to take legal action against nonperforming loans (parties with payments overdue for more than 90 days)”.

Thursday, February 9

The Maldives Inland Revenue Authority collected MVR3.4 billion (US$220 million) in January, up 43.1% compared to the same period last year and the highest amount received in a month since the tax authority was established more than a decade ago.

Bolstered by strong tourist arrivals, MIRA reported an increment in the sales tax for both the domestic and tourism sectors as well as higher receipts from corporate income tax, airport taxes, green tax, and tourism land rent.

Thursday, February 16

The government revealed plans to upgrade the Madivaru airport in Lhaviyani Atoll to an international airport. The president issued a decree to add Madivaru to a list of projects to be carried out under the cross-subsidy policy, which offers islands, lagoons or plots of land for tourism in exchange for investment in key

Above: MTDC revealed new logo and website at its 15th Anniversary.

infrastructure projects. The minimum investment for the Madivaru project was set at US$5 million.

“The total investment proposed or committed under this model shall be set-off against the acquisition cost and/or the declared land rent of the island/land/lagoon allocated for tourism under this model,” according to the ministry of national planning, housing and infrastructure.

The Madivaru domestic airport – the first in Lhaviyani atoll – was developed by local tourism company Kuredu Holdings, which contracted the Beijing Urban Construction Group to build the terminal, air traffic control tower and a 1,200-metre runway. Kuredu, which operates resorts in the north-central atoll, reportedly spent US$11 million on the project. The national airline

operator Island Aviation Services was enlisted to manage the airport in January last year and scheduled flights started in February 2022. Other projects to be carried out under the cross-subsidy policy include upgrading the Laamu Kadhdhoo airport to international status, building six new domestic airports, and developing a residential city after reclaiming the Giraavaru lagoon near Malé.

Tuesday, February 21

A mockup home built for the ‘Maldives Floating City’ – a 5,000-house development by Dutch Docklands in a 200-hectare lagoon near the capital – was towed to the Hulhumalé lagoon for display to the public.

Local resort construction company Bison Maldives was

contracted to build the homes in February last year based on specifications by engineers from the Netherlands. The housing units are to be tethered to the lagoon floor and linked together. The first homes were due to be shown to the public in Ramadan 2022. Local consultant Ibrahim Riyaz blamed slow approval processes from government agencies for the delay. Construction has not started at the lagoon because the environment ministry has yet to approve the environment impact assessment report. But preparations for displaying a three-home unit is now complete and journalists will be invited for a presentation, Riyaz said.

In June last year, the US$1 billion project was changed to an integrated tourism

Left: Revenue collected in January 23 is up more than 40% from the same period last year.

project upon advice from the government’s economic council.

A “million dollar alternating payment fee” was paid and an agreement was signed between the tourism ministry and Dutch Dockland Maldives, a joint venture formed between the government and the Netherlands developer. “A first block of floating homes is under construction by Bison and is due to be transported to the lagoon and opened in August after the school holidays. This will enable the public to visit and see first hand how the homes will look like,” the company said at the time.

“The marine engineering, technical details and specifications for the Maldives Floating City development have been completed, and construction will begin immediately after remaining government approvals have been granted. The modular city construction is accordingly scheduled for January 2023 and will take 4 to 5 years to complete.”

Thursday, February 23

Businesses registered for the goods and services tax must submit statements on an MVR2 (US$0.1) levy on plastic shopping bags when they file GST returns, according to new rules gazetted by the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority. With effect on 18 April, businesses must charge customers for plastic bags sold or provided at the point of sale. Fines of up to MVR50,000 (US$3,240) could be imposed for violations.

Duty-free shops, wholesalers

and waste management service providers will be exempt. Bin-liners and plastic bags used to sell fresh fish as well as unpacked rice, flour and sugar can also be provided without the extra charge.

The new environmental tax is part of the government’s policy to phase-out the production, import and sale of single-use plastics.

Monday, February 27

Food prices grew 1.26% in January compared to the previous month.

“The main contributor to this rise was the increase in prices of reef fish (+6.63%), mango (+10.29%), lime (+17.68%), bananas (+4.84%), young coconut (+9.83%), coffee mix (3 in 1 and the like) (+7.35%), milk powder (+2.11%), packet cakes (+11.25%), coconut (dry nut) (+2.92%), yoghurt (+3.67%), mineral water (+1.17%),

frozen chicken (+1.44%), milk packet flavoured (+1.45%), ginger (+13.34%) , fish paste (+1.22%), noodles (+3.75%), chocolate bars (+1.21%), watermelon (+3.73%), sausage (+3.28%), Basmathi rice (+2.62%), tang juice and the like (+1.74%) and tea bags (+0.40%),” the statistics bureau explained.

“This rise was partially offset by the fall in price of oranges (-21.54%), apples (-13.91%), onion (-5.27%) and grapes (3.49%).”

On an annual basis, the Consumer Price Index for food and beverages was up 7.82% compared to January 2022.

The annual rate of inflation stood at 3.99% in January, up from 3.42% in December.

A rise in the goods and services tax from 6% to 8% took effect on 1 January. But food prices were relatively unaffected as staples such as rice, flour and sugar as well as some fruits and vegetables are

Above: A mockup home built for the 'Maldives Floating City' - a 5000-house development by Dutch Docklands - being towed.

exempt from the sales tax. In monthly terms, the CPI for all groups was up 0.96% from 0.49% in December.

In January, the highest spike in prices was recorded for cafés and restaurants at +4.42%.

“The main contributor to this rise was the increase in the price of pizza (+7.07%), coffee (+4.37%), lunch pack (+6.79%), shorteats [spicy] (+6.00%), sandwich (+8.80%), buffet meals (+6.32%), continental breakfast (+7.52%), burger (+7.39%) and noodles/ pasta meals (+4.76%),” according to the statistics bureau.

“Over the twelve months until January 2023, the restaurants and accommodation services group rose by +5.59%.”

18 January 2023

After a nearly three-year hiatus, the first direct flight from China since 2020 arrived on 18 January, carrying the first batch of Chinese tourists after the country ended Covid-19 travel restrictions earlier this month.

At a ceremony featuring a traditional boduberu performance, the tourists were greeted with flowers and a gift pack as they disembarked. The high-level welcome delegation included Tourism Minister Dr Abdulla Mausoom and Chinese Ambassador Wang Lixin.

“We are extremely pleased to be welcoming flights from

January and February

An overview of the top tourism news

China to the Maldives again. China had been our key source market for some years prior to the onset of the pandemic, and we are looking forward to Chinese travellers topping our arrival charts again,” said Thoyyib Mohamed, CEO of the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation. China was the largest source market before the pandemic with 284,029 holidaymakers in 2019, representing a 17% market share.

The JD455 flight from Beijing Daxing International Airport was the first direct connection between China and the Maldives since the border closures in early 2020. After reopening borders, China no

longer requires quarantines for returning travellers. The MMPRC continued destination marketing activities in China despite the global pandemic, including 14 activities in 2020 and eight activities with a total reach of 10.2 million in 2021. The five activities conducted in 2022 reached 14.7 million prospective visitors in the Chinese market, “to keep the destination on top of Chinese travellers minds when borders reopen.”

China was the world’s largest outbound travel market in 2019 with US$255 billion annual global spending by Chinese tourists. The lifting of travel restrictions spurred

Maldives. China has long been a key source market for our industry.

a surge in bookings as Asia’s tourist hotspots prepared for a boom and airlines ramped up capacity, Reuters reported.

Above: Chinese guests are welcomed back to the

23 January 2023

The Maldives government has announced public tendering for the “lease, development, operation and management” of new resorts on 14 uninhabited islands or lagoons. With deadlines in late August, the tourism ministry invited bids for the acquisition of leaseholder rights for 50 years. A 36-month construction period was offered with nine of the islands and lagoons available for reclamation. The minimum lease acquisition cost ranges from US$200,000 to US$2.5 million with the lowest rates for islands in the northernmost atolls of Haa Alif and Haa Dhaal.

The announcement was made with a “special focus” on the north after the inauguration of a US$123 million project last week to upgrade the Hanimaadhoo International Airport, “which will need 8,000 tourist beds in coming years for smooth functioning” of the new hub, according to the tourism ministry.

Financed by a line of credit from the Indian EXIM Bank and contracted to the Indiabased JMC Projects, the project involves the construction of a new 2.46km runway and a terminal with the capacity to serve 1.3 million passengers annually. Once “completed and in operation by 2024,” it would be able to accommodate flights

the size of Airbus A320 and Boeing 737, enabling direct connections from key locations across the globe.

The airport expansion was hailed as a “transformational” project that would “increase tourism facilities, including guesthouses and city hotels, drive job creation in the northern atolls, and transform the region into an economic hub.”

With the exception of the Kaashidhoo lagoon in Kaafu Atoll, the other locations up for bidding are all outside the central region, including five islands in the southern atoll of Huvadhu (Gaaf Alif and Gaaf Dhaal).

Aside from the proposed

acquisition cost, the bid evaluation criteria includes higher scores for low carbon development or energy efficiency and commitments to hire more local and female staff.

Above: The Maldives government has earmarked 14 new uninhabited islands or lagoons for development.

26 January 2023

China is back among the top 10 source markets for tourists, just a week after the first direct flight from China to the Maldives since 2020.

The first batch of Chinese tourists arrived on 18 January after a nearly three-year hiatus. China ended Covid-19 travel restrictions earlier this month. A total of 3,146 Chinese holidaymakers visited during the week.

Two days after the first flight, the Chinese embassy in Malé announced that Chinese travel agencies and online travel operators have been authorised to resume “pilot outbound

group tours for Chinese citizens” to the Maldives with effect on 6 February. The Maldives was among first group of countries cleared by the Chinese government. The warm welcome accorded to the first group of Chinese tourists received widespread coverage in Chinese media, according to the embassy. China was the largest source market before the pandemic with 284,029 holidaymakers in 2019, representing a 17% market share. After reopening borders, China no longer requires quarantines for returning travellers.

As of 24 January, the Maldives welcomed a total of 133,000

tourists, up 29% from the same period in 2022. Russia was the top market with 18,549 tourists – representing a market share of 14% – followed by Italy (13,615 tourists) and India (13,116 tourists). The average duration of stay was 8.1 days. There are 168 resorts, 877 guesthouses, 157 safari vessels, and 13 hotels in operation with a combined bed capacity of 59,768.

Below: China is back at the top ten source markets for the Maldives in just a week after flights resumed.

27 January 2023

The Asian Institute of Hospitality Management (AIHM), a collaboration between Minor Hotels and Les Roches of Switzerland, is offering annual scholarships for Maldivians in memory of Dr. Ibrahim Umar Maniku, one of the forefathers of Maldivian hospitality.

Dr. Maniku was a visionary, an industry giant, and an inspiration to many –including the team at Minor Hotels, who embarked on many joint ventures with him in the Maldives, including Naladhu Private Island

Maldives, Anantara Dhigu Maldives Resort, Anantara Veli Maldives Resort, Anantara Kihavah Maldives Villas and Niyama Private Islands Maldives. As pioneers in hospitality, Dr. Maniku and founder of Minor Hotels, William Heinecke, spent decades working together to establish the Maldives as one of the world’s most luxurious destinations.

In memory of their partnership and friendship, two AIHM scholarships will be awarded each year to Maldivian

nationals who aspire to a career in luxury hospitality. Upon graduation, scholars will enjoy preferred employment status at a Minor Hotels property in the Maldives. AIHM follows the globally recognised Les Roches curriculum for its three-and-ahalf year Bachelor of Business Administration in Global Hospitality Management. Education is student-centred, with a highly individualised approach to learning, and small classes led by lecturers drawn from within the hospitality industry after successful careers. Students gain hands-on experience in luxury hotels on site, as well as during internships at leading hospitality and tourism companies around the world. In addition, students enjoy a high level of support from faculty in a multicultural, inclusive community, and the chance to live in one of the world’s top tourism destinations and a regional hospitality hub.

Scholarships will cover 100% of tuition for the full threeand-a-half years. To be eligible, candidates must be at least 17.5 years of age, have graduated

with a secondary school certificate, and have proven English language proficiency. The Bachelor of Business Administration in Global Hospitality Management is spread across seven semesters, with exchanges in Switzerland or Spain and professional internships around the world. Learning is dynamic, immersive, flexible and led by industry experts with a global outlook.

Founded by Minor Hotels, the region’s largest hospitality company, in association with Les Roches, a renowned leader in education, AIHM provides a world-class learning experience for future leaders in hospitality, tourism and entrepreneurship.

Above: AIHM, a collaboration between Minor Hotels and Les Roches of Switzerland, is offering annual scholarships for Maldivians in memory of Dr. Ibrahim Umar Maniku.

22 February 2023

Marriott International Maldives in collaboration with the Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT) launched the country’s first Laundry Certification Programme. Approved by the Maldives National Skills Development Authority (MNSDA), the programme was initiated to train local talent in the hospitality laundry operations and to maintain the highest hygiene standards with priority on guest safety and brand standards.

The partnership with MIT was a natural fit with Marriott International’s promise of ‘Putting People First’ and its focus on training, retaining and growing local talent,

according to the hospitality group.

The programme is also extended to locals from the islands of Maafushi and Gulhi pursuing career growth opportunities in hospitality laundry operations.

The programme enrolled 21 local associates from Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of seven resorts in the Maldives and was delivered by MIT with inputs from laundry leaders from these resorts. The course was primarily focused on developing the laundry operational skills of local talents. The sessions were delivered by laundry leaders of the resorts and headed by faculty from MIT. The certification program was conducted over four months,

with regular virtual theory sessions and physical practical sessions conducted at the respective resorts. In order to get the participants ready for the final examination, pre-assessment exams were conducted at the respective resorts, which comprised of two parts; written paper and viva examinations spearheaded by Learning & Development leaders at the respective resorts. All participants were then invited to Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa for the Final assessments, organised under the supervision of a Chief Invigilator nominated from MNSDA. Marriott International and MIT, along with MNSDA, are positive about the

success of this certification program in training locals who wish to pursue a career in hospitality and laundry operations. According to Marriott International, the collaboration marks another step in its efforts to put people first, invest in the local communities, and foster growth opportunities for local talent.

Below: Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT) with Marriott International launched the country’s first Laundry Certification Programme.

26 February 2023

Noo Raajje scientist Maeesha Mohamed is taking part in National Geographic’s Pristine Seas, a scientific expedition that embarks today to gather data to fill gaps in ongoing efforts to develop the Maldives’ Marine Spatial Plan. The expedition will travel to Huvadhoo Atoll, Fuvahmulah and Addu during the upcoming month aboard Blue Force Three and conduct a variety of surveys that will build upon information gathered during previous Noo Raajje expeditions. The data and research collected will help inform a long-term plan to protect marine life and support sustainable development in the Maldives.

Maeesha will be joining a stellar line-up of local and international scientists and ocean experts, including expedition leader Dr. Keiron

Fraser of the University of Plymouth, expedition chief scientist Dr. Alan Friedlander and local marine biologist Aya Naseem. Together, they will use sampling methods such as Baited Remote Underwater Video Systems (BRUVs), deep drop-camera surveys, and micro-paleo and microplastics sampling to determine the health of south Maldives ocean ecosystems.

“I am thrilled to join this expedition that will not only help us gather valuable data about the marine health of the southern Atolls, but also help better identify areas that need to be protected. Expeditions like this reinforce the scientific basis for protecting marine areas and help the government design science-backed policy,” said Noo Raajje Science & Communications Liaison Maeesha Mohamed.

Following the expedition, the team will produce a scientific

report and a short video detailing their findings. This information will complement data already collected by Noo Raajje from previous expeditions, its Ocean Use Survey and numerous public and stakeholder consultations towards drafting the country’s Marine Spatial Plan. The expedition team will also conduct a live online educational talk and a Q&A session aboard the expedition vessel for Maldivian students and youth.

“This expedition will help us expand our knowledge about the marine ecosystems of the Maldives, which will be crucial for the continuation of our efforts to manage marine resources. This is also an opportunity for Maldivians to learn more about our environment and elevate our appreciation and love for the ocean,” said Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resources

Above: Noo Raajje scientist Maeesha Mohamed takes to the sea as part of a National Geographic study to gather data to develop the Maldives marine spatial plan.

and Agriculture Dr Hussain Rasheed Hassan.

Dr. Alan Friedlander, National Geographic Pristine Seas Chief Scientist, said “The National Geographic Pristine Seas team has worked all over the world to protect some of the most vital places in the ocean. This is our first expedition to the Maldives and an amazing opportunity to learn more about the unique ecosystems in the southern atolls. Our team is excited to support the goals of the Noo Raajje partnership to protect and value the ocean and its resources to build a bright future for communities, the economy, and the environment of the Maldives.”

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

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

IFS

International Food Solution (IFS) is a highly reputable company in the forefront of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) distribution across the islands of Maldives and Seychelles. The management team, boasting four decades of global experience in the food supply industry, lends further credibility to the IFS brand. +960 3000770, www.ifsmale.com

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

Internet,

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

EQ LINES

EQ Lines group is a logistical service provider headquartered In Maldives with branch offices in Pakistan, UAE, Sri Lanka with a global reach & ability to service the clientele with regular & project shipping requirements. They are specialized solution providers of door-to-door logistics with total international freight solution, inhouse customs brokerage, warehousing & transport capabilities.1st floor,1A, H.Seleena,Galadhun Goalhi, Male, Maldives, +960 400 2050,+960 999 5860, sales@eqlines.com, www.eqlines.com.

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. G. Niusha, Lily Magu, Male’ - 20130, Maldives +960 301 6616, info@gfsmaldives.com, gfsmaldives.com

OSTRAVA

Ostrava workwear specialises in a diverse range of workwear and PPE such as safety footwear, head protection, respiratory protection, hearing protection, eye protection, fall protection, Hi-Visibility clothing, rain wear, chef wear, fire protective clothing, disposable clothing, and first aid kits to name a few. Ostrava is also the sole distributor for brands such as PORTWEST (UK), GIASCO (Italy), AIRTOX (Denmark), KARAM (India), and TOMA (Italy). +960 332 6967, sales@ ostrava.mv

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 chemichemicals. 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

INNER MALDIVES

Inner Maldives Holidays is a well-known travel brand in the Maldives that has won multiple awards, including "Indian Ocean's Leading Travel Agency" in 2007 and 2009 at the World Travel Awards. The company has been mentioned in the New York Times and is also highly recommended by Lonely Planet. H. East Light, Ameer Ahmed Magu, Malé, +960 300 6886, info@innermaldives.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