Dusit Thani Maldives announces the appointment of Jan Van de Voorde as the new Executive Chef at the resort. With this new appointment, Chef Jan is bringing a wealth of expertise and creativity from his background in Michelin-starred restaurants in Belgium and the Netherlands.
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We are delighted to welcome Jan Van de Voorde to the Dusit Thani Maldives team. With his extensive experience and passion for the industry, he is the ideal candidate to lead our food and beverage department’s efforts as we strive to provide the utmost experience to our guests, says Mr. Jean-Louis, General Manager of Dusit Thani Maldives.
Chef Jan has built a career focused on delivering exceptional guest satisfaction, adaptable problem-solving, effective food cost control and meticulous HACCP hygiene management. His expertise extends to Nikkei cuisine and encompasses strong management skills, including team leadership, decision-making, and budgeting. Chef Jan is a graduate of Ter Groene Poorte Hotel School in Bruges, Belgium, where he obtained his Bachelor’s in Hotel Management in 1992. He is fluent in Dutch, French, and English, with basic proficiency in German and Thai.
I am thrilled to be joining the team at Dusit Thani Maldives and to enhance the culinary experience at this stunning resort. I am passionate about using local ingredients and crafting innovative dishes that highlight the flavours of the Maldives, says Chef Jan.
The Maldives, renowned for its breathtaking islands and luxurious resorts, has taken a bold step to enhance its global tourism reach through an exciting new partnership with Liverpool Football Club (LFC). Announced by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/ Visit Maldives), this multi-year agreement designates the Maldives as the official tourist destination partner of one of the world’s most iconic football clubs, covering both the men’s and women’s teams. This partnership aims to showcase the Maldives to a vast international audience, thereby driving a surge in high-value tourism to the island nation.
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A Global Stage for the Maldives
Liverpool FC engages an audience of over 205 million followers globally, giving Visit Maldives an unparalleled platform to attract potential travelers. By leveraging the club’s influential reach, the Maldives plans to draw an additional 100,000 tourists in 2025, generating over $100 million for the country’s tourism revenue. Additionally, on April 2nd, during a high-profile match against Everton, the Maldives will unveil the partnership, with branding prominently displayed on LED boards at Anfield Stadium, ensuring millions of viewers worldwide see it.
This strategic alliance extends beyond brand visibility at LFC matches. Visit Maldives will place billboards across Europe, targeting affluent travelers in key markets, and secure coverage in LFC’s official publications and digital platforms. With LFC’s TV audience exceeding 211 million per season and 53 million followers on social and digital channels, the Maldives positions itself as a top destination for luxury travelers and football fans alike.
Exclusive Experiences and Sports Tourism
Moreover, this partnership offers the Maldives unique opportunities, including the creation of a Liverpool Academy in the Maldives, further boosting sports tourism. The academy will attract aspiring athletes and football fans, blending their love for the sport with the beauty of the Maldives’ stunning surroundings. In addition, additional fan zones, appearances by LFC legends, and interactive digital campaigns will further engage audiences and drive travel interest.
As a part of this effort, Visit Maldives will incorporate these activations into their global events, fairs, and roadshows, building a cohesive branding presence that emphasizes the Maldives as a luxury destination. The partnership will reach over 397 million people per season, with an expected media value of over $17 million annually, thus delivering a significant return on investment.
A Shared Commitment to Sustainability
Beyond tourism, this partnership reflects a mutual dedication to sustainability. Both LFC and the Maldives commit to protecting the environment, with LFC’s “The Red Way” program promoting sustainability in sports, while Visit Maldives champions ocean conservation and eco-friendly tourism. Since the Maldives faces challenges from rising sea levels and climate change, this collaboration highlights the importance of sustainable practices in preserving the island nation’s unique ecosystem.
Ben Latty, LFC’s Chief Commercial Officer, highlights the mutual goals of sustainability and unforgettable experiences in this partnership. Meanwhile, Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & MD of Visit Maldives, expresses pride in aligning with Liverpool FC, noting that the collaboration will bring the Maldives closer to millions of passionate football fans and offer them a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the “Sunny Side of Life.”
Forging a New Era in Global Tourism
This partnership between Visit Maldives and Liverpool FC marks a significant milestone in the Maldives’ tourism marketing strategy. Not only does it strengthen the Maldives’ position as a premier luxury destination, but it also connects with global football fans, inviting them to experience the beauty and tranquility of the islands. Ultimately, by combining world-class tourism with the passion of football, the Maldives aims to capture the hearts of millions, inspiring them to choose the Maldives for their next unforgettable adventure.
Liverpool FC, Liverpool Football Club, maldives, mmprc, Tourist Destination, Visit Maldives
