Dhawa Ihuru and Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru: April 2025 highlights

April at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru, two idyllic resorts tucked away in the Maldives, brings a harmonious blend of seasonal celebration, purposeful initiatives, and important transitions that reflect the essence of eco-luxury hospitality. This month, the resorts celebrate a significant leadership change and usher in thoughtful events designed to connect guests with nature, culture, and local communities. Whether through curated Easter festivities or hands-on conservation efforts, both properties reinforce their commitment to sustainable luxury and wellness.

A Leadership Transition Anchored in Experience

A key milestone this April is the appointment of B.R. Senaratne as Area Director of Finance for Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Dhawa Ihuru, and Angsana Velavaru. With over two decades of experience at Banyan Group, Senaratne brings extensive expertise to his new role, which began in March 2025. He started his journey in 2001 as Chief Accountant at Dhawa Ihuru, and since then, he has held various senior finance positions across the Maldives, most recently serving as Director of Finance at Angsana Velavaru. Known for his steady leadership style and strategic vision, Senaratne’s promotion reflects Banyan Group’s ongoing focus on nurturing long-term talent and empowering leadership from within its ranks.

This leadership change also underscores the group’s commitment to maintaining continuity and strengthening operations across its Maldivian properties. For guests at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru, this appointment signals a brighter future—one driven by experience, consistency, and a vision for long-term success.

A Reimagined Easter Celebration

As April progresses, guests visiting the resorts will experience a fresh take on the traditional Easter holiday. During the weekend of 18–20 April, both properties will offer specially curated events that blend tropical charm with festive tradition, ensuring a celebration that is both unique and relaxing.

At Dhawa Ihuru, the atmosphere fosters laid-back fun, especially for families. Children can enjoy classic activities such as Easter egg hunts on the beach, face painting, and interactive cooking sessions that allow younger guests to get hands-on with island-inspired dishes. This carefree, vibrant setting offers the perfect environment for families to bond and create lasting memories.

In contrast, across the lagoon at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Easter celebrations take on a more refined tone. Guests can indulge in beachside Easter barbecues inspired by Maldivian culinary traditions, complemented by the serene beauty of the resort’s surroundings. Additionally, Madi Hiyaa, the resort’s award-winning overwater restaurant, will feature a limited-edition Sakura Signature Omakase—a unique dining experience that combines the best of island ingredients with Japanese culinary artistry. With its tranquil atmosphere and elegant offerings, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru presents an Easter experience that is both sophisticated and serene.

Purpose-Driven Initiatives:

Fostering Health and Connection

April brings not only Easter celebrations but also purpose-driven initiatives focused on well-being and sustainability. These programs, aligned with the resorts’ eco-conscious luxury philosophy, encourage guests to engage with the environment and local communities.

For instance, on 7 April, the resorts hosted the “Swim for Good” event to mark World Health Day. Guests participated in a 900-meter open-water swim between the two islands, followed by a Nutrition Awareness Talk in partnership with the Society for Health Education. This event highlighted the importance of physical wellness while fostering a sense of connection among participants. Through such events, guests are encouraged to make health a priority while enjoying the beauty of their surroundings.

Environmental Sustainability: Engaging with Nature

In addition to wellness, environmental sustainability remains at the heart of the resorts’ initiatives. From 13 to 14 April, guests participated in the “Full Moon Lights Out” event, where all non-essential lighting was turned off to reduce energy consumption and offer a clear view of the Maldivian night sky. This initiative not only conserves energy but also fosters mindfulness, encouraging guests to appreciate the beauty of nature in its purest form.

Moreover, on 22 April, in celebration of Earth Day, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru will join forces with the community of K. Dhiffushi Island for a coastal clean-up. Guests will take part in this hands-on activity, helping to remove marine debris from the surrounding environment and contributing to the preservation of the region’s delicate ecosystems.

The resort group’s environmental focus continues on 27 April with the “Save the Reef” initiative. This monthly program, led by the resorts’ in-house Marine Lab, allows guests to actively contribute to coral conservation by removing harmful species such as the crown of thorns and pincushion starfish. By engaging directly with conservation efforts, guests gain a deeper understanding of the challenges facing local marine life and have the opportunity to make a tangible impact.

A New Definition of Island Luxury

As April unfolds, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru continue to redefine what luxury means in the modern world. While the Maldives has long been a haven for indulgence, these resorts set a new standard by combining relaxation with responsibility. From seasonal celebrations that honor both local culture and global sustainability efforts to immersive experiences that invite guests to actively contribute to conservation, the resorts offer a truly holistic escape.

By seamlessly blending moments of joy and celebration with meaningful contributions to the environment, both resorts provide an experience that goes beyond typical luxury. Instead, guests are invited into a larger narrative—one that encourages them to reconnect not only with the natural beauty of the Maldives but also with the shared responsibility of preserving it for future generations.

The first week of April has been a remarkable one for the Maldives’ tourism sector, with several key developments underscoring the country’s growing influence on the global stage. The Ministry of Tourism and Environment has spearheaded several initiatives that highlight its unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism, international collaboration, and enhancing the nation’s tourism appeal. From launching a high-profile campaign with Liverpool Football Club to taking decisive steps toward a greener future, this week marks a pivotal moment for the Maldives’ tourism industry.

Tourism Promotion with Liverpool FC: A Landmark Partnership

One of the standout moments this week was, without a doubt, the official launch of the Maldives’ tourism promotion campaign in partnership with Liverpool Football Club (LFC). President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, joined by Minister of Tourism and Environment Thoriq Ibrahim, attended the Merseyside Derby between Liverpool FC and Everton, marking the global debut of this exciting collaboration. The Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has, in fact, worked alongside LFC to run a co-branded tourism campaign across the UK, aiming to attract high-value travelers to the Maldives. Specifically, the campaign includes extensive outdoor and digital advertisements in prime locations like the London Underground, airports, and major billboards across Europe, promising the Maldives significant exposure in international markets.

Advancing Climate Action: Maldives Sets Example with Transparency and Sustainability

In line with its commitment to environmental sustainability, the Maldives also focused on climate action this week. Notably, the Ministry of Tourism and Environment is currently undergoing a technical expert review of the nation’s first Biennial Transparency Report (BTR), submitted as part of the Paris Agreement’s Enhanced Transparency Framework. This review will, in turn, assess the country’s efforts in managing greenhouse gas emissions and climate change impacts. Ultimately, this review process demonstrates the Maldives’ dedication to global climate action, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a leader in sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.

Renewable Energy Progress: A Step Toward Sustainable Tourism

In a related effort to promote sustainability, the Ministry has signed an agreement to install 38 MWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems across 18 islands. This initiative, backed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is a significant step toward increasing the use of solar energy in the Maldives, thereby helping to reduce reliance on costly diesel fuel. Furthermore, this project is expected to not only save millions in fuel costs but also support the Maldives’ broader goals of becoming more environmentally resilient, ultimately further enhancing its appeal as an eco-conscious tourist destination.

Strengthening International Relations and Local Industry Development

Minister Thoriq Ibrahim met with officials from Pakistan to discuss cooperative efforts in waste management, a critical issue for the archipelago’s scattered islands. Additionally, the Minister welcomed Japan’s newly appointed Ambassador, Mrs. Ishigami Rumiko, to discuss climate mitigation, waste management, and energy transition, thus demonstrating the Maldives’ commitment to fostering strong international partnerships.

Moreover, Minister Ibrahim also met with the Maldives Association of HR Professionals to explore opportunities for developing the tourism workforce, ensuring that the Maldives can continue offering exceptional service to visitors. These discussions are, indeed, crucial for strengthening the Maldives’ tourism industry and its global competitiveness.

Looking Ahead

With a continued focus on sustainable tourism, international collaborations, and workforce development, the Maldives is positioning itself for long-term success in the global tourism market. The nation’s commitment to environmental stewardship, alongside initiatives like the partnership with Liverpool FC, will undoubtedly ensure it remains a top destination for travelers worldwide.

April at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru & Dhawa Ihuru: Easter Celebrations, Leadership Changes, and Sustainable Initiatives