RAAYA by Atmosphere introduces something special; Seb’s Farm, a vibrant new addition that blends sustainability with a deep respect for the island’s natural bounty. Inspired by the castaway adventurer Seb, this farm-to-table experience goes beyond just dining; it offers a chance to reconnect with nature. Picture a candlelit dinner under the stars, rustic wooden tables adorned with seasonal produce, and the soothing sounds of the ocean breeze. Seb’s Farm celebrates authentic flavors and fosters a genuine connection to the earth.
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Seb’s Farm Philosophy and Approach
Maurice Van Den Bosch, the General Manager of RAAYA by Atmosphere, explains the philosophy behind Seb’s Farm:
“In today’s fast-paced world of multitasking, long screen times, and city stress, people are increasingly anxious and disconnected. Gardening, as shown by numerous scientific studies on horticulture therapy, can significantly uplift the spirit. That’s why at Seb’s Farm, we wanted it to be more than just a dining venue—it’s a way of life. Guests can explore the farm on exclusive tours or get hands-on with gardening sessions. Aspiring chefs can handpick ingredients and join a personalised culinary masterclass. And for cocktail enthusiasts, we offer the chance to create the perfect drink using farm-fresh herbs and fruits.”
Situated in the heart of Raaya Island, Seb’s Farm grows vegetables, fruits, and herbs, alongside a hydroponic garden and poultry farm. Every dish at Seb’s Farm features ingredients harvested directly from this organic haven. Local seafood, sourced from nearby fisheries, further enhances the farm’s fresh offerings. This sustainable approach ensures every meal remains flavorful and rooted in the island’s natural treasures.
Farm to Table Experience at Seb’s Farm
Chef Putu Alit Wijana, Executive Chef at RAAYA by Atmosphere, highlights the farm’s sustainability:
“Sustainability is at the core of Seb’s Farm, where every meal begins with fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the farm. Our catch of the day is freshly sourced from local fishermen. We are committed to offering a farm-to-table experience that prioritises the environment and supports our local community.”
RAAYA by Atmosphere unveils Seb’s Farm, offering alfresco harvest-to-plate dining and exclusive activities.
The Signature Menu at Seb’s Farm features the best of Maldivian cuisine. Guests can savor RAAYA Fish Soup, a traditional slow-cooked dish infused with curry leaves and Maldivian chilli. They can also enjoy Kanamadhu Chocolate Fudge, a Maldivian almond cake served with coconut ice cream. For a refreshing treat, Seb’s Florals—made with cucumber juice and lime—is a must-try. Alternatively, the tangy Raa Gin with passionfruit and strawberry offers another exciting option.
Seb’s Farm also provides more than just a meal. Guests can enjoy exclusive farm tours or participate in gardening sessions. Aspiring chefs can pick fresh ingredients and join personalized culinary masterclasses. Cocktail enthusiasts can craft drinks using herbs and fruits straight from the farm, ensuring every sip is as fresh as it is delicious.
Commitment to Sustainability at Seb’s Farm
RAAYA by Atmosphere prioritizes sustainability in every aspect of the resort. The in-house composting system transforms food waste from its bars and restaurants into nutrient-rich soil. This soil nourishes the farm and is shared with nearby islands. Water conservation plays a key role, with advanced rainwater collection and filtration systems in place. Additionally, the farm harnesses solar energy and follows zero-waste kitchen practices, making the most of every part of the produce.
Seb’s Farm embodies RAAYA by Atmosphere’s commitment to sustainability and exceptional dining. Located just a 45-minute seaplane ride from Velana International Airport, this luxurious Maldives resort offers 167 beach and overwater villas. Guests can enjoy six diverse dining options that blend local flavors with global influences, making it the perfect escape for travelers who wish to enjoy luxury while respecting the environment.
Dubai plans to redefine the travel experience for millions and reshape its geography by retiring one of its most iconic institutions: Dubai International Airport (DXB). Once a symbol of the city’s meteoric rise, DXB now nears closure as Dubai shifts its aviation ambitions to a colossal new home, Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
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For decades, DXB has played a central role in global air travel, processing over 90 million passengers annually and serving as the beating heart of international connections between East and West. However, the airport’s legacy as the world’s busiest international hub approaches its final chapter. Why? Because Dubai envisions a future defined by space, scale, and a bold new concept of travel and urban life.
Why Close the World’s Busiest International Airport?
The answer lies 45 kilometers south in the desert sands of Dubai South, where Dubai is building a new mega-airport. Al Maktoum International, already partially operational, will become the world’s largest airport. When completed, it will feature five runways, 400 aircraft gates, and the capacity to handle 260 million passengers each year.
Unlike DXB, which dense neighborhoods in Garhoud and Al Qusais confine, DWC gives Dubai room to grow. In contrast, the new site offers scalability and flexibility. The project doesn’t just expand the city’s capacity—it reimagines it. Sleek architecture, cutting-edge technology, and integrated logistics with nearby Jebel Ali Port will ultimately deliver a smoother, more efficient experience for travelers and cargo alike.
Dubai isn’t just chasing numbers; rather, it’s planning for longevity. DXB, built in 1960, continues to age. Its infrastructure nears the end of its useful life. Keeping it operational would force the city to invest billions just to preserve the status quo. Dubai chooses a clean slate.
What Will Happen to the Land?
By closing DXB, Dubai unlocks a massive piece of prime real estate in its urban core. While officials haven’t announced exact redevelopment plans, they’ve opened the door to limitless possibilities. Think residential neighborhoods, parks, commercial centers—a brand-new district rising where runways once lay.
In fact, this transformation reflects the evolution seen in other global cities. Hong Kong, for instance, turned its former Kai Tak Airport into a thriving urban hub. Dubai plans to do the same—only on a larger scale.
When Is This Happening?
The shift won’t happen overnight. Dubai expects the transition to unfold over multiple decades. The first new terminal at Al Maktoum will open in 2032, and officials aim for full capacity between the late 2030s and the 2050s. Until then, DXB will keep serving passengers as Dubai phases in the move to DWC—starting with cargo and low-cost carriers, followed by flagship airlines like Emirates.
Travelers flying to and from Dubai will experience business as usual, for now. But the city has already set the change in motion, and soon, its skyline and story will look very different.
The Bigger Picture
Dubai has never hesitated to reinvent itself. It has transformed from sand dunes to skyscrapers, from a sleepy fishing village into a global metropolis. The closure of DXB doesn’t mark a loss; it signals a pivot. This moment reflects Dubai’s faith in the future, its bold planning, and its relentless drive to build bigger and better.
Unlike most cities, which adapt to their airports, Dubai is flipping the script. The city isn’t just designing an airport for tomorrow; it’s designing an entire city around it.
