Padel Court Opens at SAii Lagoon Maldives Resort

SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, has partnered with GZ19 Padel Italy to introduce the Maldives’ first-ever GZ19 padel court, now available to both resort guests and local residents. This exciting new offering invites players to enjoy the thrilling sport of padel tennis while surrounded by the Maldives’ breathtaking seascape. To celebrate this milestone, the resort welcomed sports legends Gianluca Zambrotta and Nélson Dida, who will remain in residence until March 17th to participate in exclusive events.

Alexander Trager, General Manager of SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton and Crossroads Marina comment:

“Making padel tennis accessible to the Maldives community is a significant milestone, not only in expanding the sports culture and promoting healthy lifestyle choices, but also in creating more opportunities for the local community to engage in world-class athletic experiences.”

Celebrating the Launch with Sports Legends

The opening event attracted distinguished guests, including Hon. Abdulla Rafiu, the Maldives Minister of Sports, Fitness, and Recreation, alongside several notable figures from the local sports community. During the ceremony, Maldivian Tennis Champions Naba Nishan and Iqnaz Mansoor participated in the ribbon-cutting, while Zambrotta and Dida showcased their skills in an exciting demo match with local players.

Zambrotta, famed for his legendary football career and World Cup victory with Italy, and Dida, a renowned Brazilian footballer with multiple Champions League titles, are part of an ongoing series of events at the resort. This initiative offers guests a unique chance to engage with these icons while enjoying the luxury and leisure experiences available at SAii Lagoon Maldives.

Padel Tennis: A Thrilling New Sport in the Maldives

Padel tennis, a dynamic sport that combines elements of tennis and squash, is played on an enclosed court with solid rackets and a low-bouncing ball. This makes it easy to learn and fun for players of all ages and skill levels. As the sport’s global popularity continues to rise, it has become a perfect addition to the resort’s growing list of unforgettable activities. The GZ19 Padel courts, set against the magnificent backdrop of the Indian Ocean, offer both locals and visitors the opportunity to enjoy this exciting game in an idyllic tropical setting, enhancing the resort’s reputation as a hub for active and social experiences.

The GZ19 Padel courts at SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, remain open daily until 11:00 pm, providing players with the chance to enjoy a relaxed afternoon match or an exciting evening game under the lights. This new feature reinforces the resort’s position as a premier destination for sports enthusiasts, combining world-class hospitality with innovative recreational options. The courts are now open for bookings, welcoming players of all skill levels to experience the game in style. For more information or to reserve your court time, visit the SAii Lagoon Maldives website or Crossroads Maldives.

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.

SAii Lagoon Maldives Launches Padel Courts in Collaboration with GZ19 Padel

Celebrating the Launch with Sports Legends

Padel Tennis: A Thrilling New Sport in the Maldives

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