Dusit Thani Maldives: SALA, A Luxury Plant-Based Restaurant

Dusit Thani Maldives has unveiled SALA, a new plant-based restaurant designed to elevate the dining experience. By using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and produce from the resort’s own organic gardens, SALA offers a menu that nourishes both the body and the soul.

Executive Chef Jan Van de Voorde leads the kitchen, bringing with him a wealth of experience from Michelin-starred restaurants in Europe and health retreats in Ibiza. His passion for organic, plant-based cuisine is evident in every dish, which reflects his commitment to wellness and flavor.

Speaking about the restaurant, Executive Chef Jan Van de Voorde said:

“The inspiration for SALA comes from my time in Ibiza from 2020 to 2022, where I embraced
plant-based cuisine and experienced its transformative benefits. Cooking and consuming this way revitalised my mind and body—I felt stronger, healthier, and more energised. Now, I am thrilled to bring this philosophy to Dusit Thani Maldives, where guests can indulge in flavourful dishes that nourish the soul.”

Plant-Based Creations with a Focus on Sustainability

Aligned with Dusit Thani’s focus on sustainability, SALA follows a “seed-to-plate” approach. This ensures that every ingredient is thoughtfully sourced, creating dishes that are both environmentally responsible and delicious. For example, the Grilled King Oyster Mushroom with pea puree showcases the freshness of local ingredients. While the Creamy Mushroom Soup, enhanced with white truffle oil, offers a satisfying yet healthy option. For dessert, the Coconut Sorbet, made with locally sourced coconuts and seasonal berries, provides a refreshing and health-conscious choice.

In addition to its creative dishes, SALA also offers an array of beverages designed to promote wellness. Drinks like the Kombucha Mojito and Pineapple & Ginger Kefir not only refresh but also provide health benefits.

Perched on the second floor of a Thai-style pavilion, SALA offers breathtaking views of Baa Atoll’s turquoise waters. The serene atmosphere, combined with Dusit’s signature gracious hospitality, creates the perfect setting for mindful dining, whether guests visit for a leisurely lunch or a romantic evening.

To celebrate the opening of SALA, Dusit Thani Maldives is offering a special Plant & Pamper Retreat, available for bookings through March 2025. The retreat combines gourmet plant-based dining with relaxation and wellness activities. Guests will enjoy daily breakfast at The Market, lunch and dinner at SALA, a private yoga session, and a 60-minute couples massage, among other exclusive benefits.

Moreover, members of Dusit’s loyalty program, Dusit Gold, can enjoy additional rewards. They receive up to 15% off stays, up to 30% off dining, and other privileges. Signing up for Dusit Gold is free and easy, offering members even more opportunities to enhance their experience at the resort.

With SALA, Dusit Thani Maldives smoothly blends luxury with sustainability. By focusing on plant-based, health-conscious cuisine, the restaurant offers a transformative dining experience for guests who seek nourishment, indulgence, and mindfulness in equal measure.

On April 19, 2025, Marriott International celebrated the success of 31 apprentices who graduated from the second batch of its Maldives Apprenticeship Program. The special ceremony took place at the Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa and featured key dignitaries, including Hon. Ibrahim Waheed, the Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts, along with other officials from the Ministry of Youth Empowerment and the Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT). Additionally, Mark Fletcher, Marriott’s Area Director of Human Resources for Singapore and the Maldives, also attended to acknowledge the graduates’ achievements.

Hon. Ibrahim Waheed highlighted the program’s role in empowering the youth of the Maldives, commenting, “Today, we celebrate 31 apprenticeship graduates. These are 31 futures redefined—each a testament to what happens when opportunity meets action. To our apprentices, you step forward as ambassadors of possibility. And to Marriott International, thank you for not just supporting this program, but for championing it—your commitment to mentorship and local capacity building is truly admirable.”

A Collaborative Effort in Hospitality Training

The Marriott Apprenticeship Program is a collaborative effort between Marriott International, the Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Community Empowerment, and MIT. This 10-month program provides participants with a well-rounded education that includes theoretical lessons at MIT and hands-on experience at various Marriott resorts across the Maldives. Specifically, the apprentices received training in several key hospitality sectors, including front office operations, culinary arts, food and beverage service, and housekeeping.

By partnering with the Maldivian government, Marriott became the first international hospitality brand to support such an apprenticeship initiative in the country, reinforcing its dedication to developing local talent. In this way, the program supports Marriott’s broader mission to cultivate the next generation of leaders in the fast-growing Maldivian tourism industry.

Practical Experience Across Marriott’s Maldives Resorts

The apprentices completed their theoretical training at MIT before gaining practical experience at Marriott’s luxurious properties in the Maldives, such as The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands; The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort; JW Marriott Maldives Resort & Spa; W Maldives; Le Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa; Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa; and The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort.

True to the company’s guiding principle of “We Put People First,” Marriott focuses on helping young professionals grow and succeed. As a result of their hard work, all the graduates received Level-3 certification, officially recognized by the Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA). This certification acknowledges their successful completion of both the academic and practical components of the program, preparing them for careers in the hospitality industry.

Looking Ahead to a Bright Future

Mark Fletcher reflected on the program’s origins, noting, “When we launched this program in 2023, it was envisioned as a pilot, a leap of faith, grounded in belief. A belief in crafting talents of Maldivian youth, belief in the strength and collaboration, and belief in Marriott’s commitment to “take care” – not just our people but the communities where we serve. What began as an initiative is now a movement, and Marriott International is proud to be the first international hospitality brand to officially launch such apprenticeship program in the Maldives”

Ultimately, this graduation marks a key milestone in Marriott’s efforts to contribute to the long-term sustainability of the Maldives’ tourism industry by fostering a talented and skilled local workforce. Marriott looks forward to watching its graduates embark on successful careers and continue playing an essential role in the growth of the country’s hospitality sector.

Dusit Thani Maldives Launches SALA The Ultimate Plant-Based Dining Experience

Plant-Based Creations with a Focus on Sustainability

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