Tourism Industry Highlights for June 2021

We have rounded up the tourism industry highlights for June 2021. In terms of tourist arrivals, Maldives recorded the least number of tourist arrivals in June this year.

However, the tropical holiday destination maintained its status as a globally preferred holiday destination, welcoming over 55,000 tourists in the month.

Towards the end of June 2021, the COVID-19 situation in the capital of the Maldives has eased. Likewise, the government lifted several restrictions in the capital region, alongside the announcement to welcome tourists from South Asian countries once again.

Check out the top tourism industry highlights for June 2021.

Opening of 02 New Resorts

June 2021 saw two new resorts making their debut in the Maldives. On 1st June 2021, the legendary Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C made its debut in the Maldives, with the opening of The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. Located on the Fari Islands, an archipelago on the north-eastern tip of North Malé Atoll The Ritz-Carlton Maldives will revolutionize the luxury landscape of the Maldives.

Tourism Industry Highlights for June 2021 — *Image: Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives*

On 6th June 2021, Kochi-based firm, MFAR Hotels & Resorts Pvt Ltd opened Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives, also a luxury resort. This new resort features an experience-driven concept and is home to a diverse collection of gourmet dining options.

Hilton Announces Plans to Open a Fourth Property in the Maldives

Hilton Maldives Amingiri — *Image: Hilton Hotels & Resorts*

Hilton Hotels & Resorts announced the signing of a management agreement with Amingiri Holdings Pvt Ltd to launch its 4th property in the Maldives; the 109 all-villa Hilton Maldives Amingiri.

Amingiri Holdings Pvt Ltd is a subsidiary of Maldivian construction and real estate development company, Amin Construction Pvt Ltd. Currently, Hilton operates Waldorf Astoria Maldives Ithaafushi, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton in the Maldives.

05 General Manager Appointments

Ibrahim Nahid: Villa Hotels & Resorts announced the appointment of established leader, Nahid as the general manager of Paradise Island Resort & Spa. According to Villa Hotels, Nahid will lead the activation of the new concept on the property and instigate several sustainable initiatives in keeping with Villa Hotels & Resorts mission to preserve and protect the natural environment.

Kanruethai Roongruang: Kan takes the helm of two resorts, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Angsana Ihuru in the Maldives. She brings over 20 years of experience in the Banyan Tree Group to the Maldives.

Amila Jeewantha Handunwala: Raffles Maldives Meradhoo announced the appointment of Amila Jeewantha Handunwala as the new General Manager of the property. He brings over 25 years of experience in the industry to the luxury resort. According to Raffles, Amila has previously led hotel operations, sales, marketing, revenue management and distribution strategies in the Middle East, South Asia and Europe.

Nicolas Khairallah: After working as the Resort Manager for Gili Lankanfushi, Nicholas took the helm of the resort as the General Manager from 1st June 2021 onwards.

Patrice Aira: With an extensive career across the globe — United States, Canada, Egypt and the Indian Ocean, Patrice brings 25 years of expertise in the industry to LUX* South Ari Atoll.

The Maldives Surpasses 500,000 Tourist Arrivals

The Maldives passed the half a million tourist arrivals mark in June 2021. The island nation also has an ambitious goal to welcome 1.5 million tourists this year.

Tourism Ministry Announces Plans to Welcome Travellers from South Asia Once Again

The Maldives’ Ministry of Tourism announced plans to resume issuing on-arrival tourist visas to visitors from South Asia. From 15th July 2021 onwards travellers from South Asian countries (including India) can visit the Maldives with a negative PCR test. The ministry said further details will be announced in the coming weeks.

Emirates Carries over 100,000 Passengers to the Maldives

By 23rd June 2021, Emirates carried over 100,000 passengers to the Maldives. Likewise, the flag carrier of the United Arab Emirates made over 1,218 movements to the Maldives between 1st January and 23rd June 2021.

With the resumption of issuing visas to travellers from South Asia, tourist arrivals to the Maldives will likely increase in July 2021 compared to June 2021. To keep up with the latest travel trends and news, follow us on Twitter and join our travel community on Facebook.

Feature image by The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands

Get ready to welcome the Lunar New Year in a breathtaking setting, as Sun Siyam Resorts invites you to experience a vibrant celebration from 27 to 31 January. Across their stunning Maldivian properties, each resort will come alive with a unique blend of tradition, culture, and indulgence. Whether you enjoy dazzling fireworks, cultural performances, or spa treatments inspired by Chinese traditions, Sun Siyam Resorts offers an unforgettable start to the New Year.

Sun Siyam Olhuveli

A Vibrant Celebration of Culture and Entertainment

On 29 January, Sun Siyam Olhuveli will host a lively Chinese New Year celebration that blends cultural traditions with spectacular entertainment. You’ll witness a colorful Snake Parade winding through the resort, followed by an unforgettable live performance by renowned Chinese singer Zhu Jiayun. Later that night, the sky will light up with a stunning fireworks display, adding to the magic of the celebration.

The evening’s entertainment doesn’t stop there. You can experience the artistry of Zheng Bao’s mesmerizing Sichuan face-changing performance. To top off the festivities, you’ll enjoy a luxurious gala dinner on the beach. The dinner features a fusion of international and Asian cuisines, set in a festive and elegant atmosphere.

For those seeking adventure, the resort offers exciting excursions, such as stingray-watching and introductory scuba diving. Meanwhile, the “Bamboo Harmony” spa treatment provides a deeply rejuvenating escape, blending traditional hand and bamboo massage techniques. Sun Siyam Olhuveli also ensures that families can enjoy the celebrations, with fun activities and surprises specially designed for children ensuring the celebration is enjoyable for guests of all ages.

Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

A Week of Fun and Festivities

At Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, the Lunar New Year festivities will last a full week, from 27 to 31 January. The resort has planned a wide array of events that cater to all ages. The celebrations kick off with a grand Gala Dinner featuring a lobster BBQ, live beachside music, and traditional Chinese acrobatics. There’s also an exciting Red Envelope Raffle Draw, offering guests the chance to win special prizes.

The energy continues with a lively beach party, highlighted by a Lion Dance Show and DJ Watte’s energetic beats. Furthermore, younger guests will be entertained with a variety of activities, including the Lunar Obstacle Games, cookie decoration, and the “Find the Fortune” Treasure Hunt.

For those seeking relaxation, the resort offers a Lunar New Year Spa Special with 50% off selected treatments. The week-long celebration culminates in a dazzling fireworks display, providing a spectacular finale to the festivities.

Siyam World

Indulge in Cultural Festivities

Siyam World offers an unforgettable Lunar New Year celebration that centers around cultural performances and culinary indulgence. Guests can savor a grand Gala Dinner at Baraabaru, where a mesmerizing Lion Dance performance takes center stage. Afterward, live music from the resort’s band enhances the evening’s atmosphere.

After dinner, the excitement continues with a special Chinese New Year show and an energetic party. As the night progresses, a stunning fireworks display will illuminate the sky, ensuring a memorable celebration.

To complement these festivities, Siyam World offers the Yin & Yang Spa Packages. Inspired by ancient Chinese philosophy, these treatments promote balance and harmony. The package includes a 45-minute aromatherapy massage, followed by a refreshing 30-minute honey cucumber facial. This experience will leave you feeling revitalized and ready for the year ahead.

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef

Intimate Traditions in a Festive Setting

At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, you’ll enjoy a more intimate celebration that still captures the spirit of the Lunar New Year. The evening begins with management cocktails, featuring tea-based infusions, dumpling stations, and popcorn. These elements create a warm and welcoming ambiance, perfect for kicking off the celebrations. A magical lantern-lighting ceremony follows, illuminating the night as you prepare for the grand Gala Dinner.

During dinner, you’ll savor authentic Chinese cuisine and live cooking stations, all paired with unlimited bubbly. Additionally, an exciting raffle draw adds extra fun to the evening. The celebrations continue into the night with lively DJ entertainment at the karaoke lounge. Sun Siyam Vilu Reef ensures you’ll have a warm and vibrant start to the Year of the Snake, with the perfect blend of tradition and modern festivity.

Sun Siyam Iru Veli

Luxury Meets Tradition

At Sun Siyam Iru Veli, you’ll experience a luxurious and culturally rich Chinese New Year celebration. Upon arrival, you’ll receive traditional red envelopes filled with good luck, which symbolize prosperity for the year ahead. After that, you can take part in an authentic tea ceremony, followed by a lavish Chinese New Year feast. The meal will feature iconic dishes, including Peking duck, spring rolls, and longevity noodles.

As the evening progresses, you’ll be treated to a vibrant dragon dance on the beach, along with cultural performances like the lotus and white peacock dances. To end the night on a high note, a spectacular fireworks display will light up the sky, ensuring a memorable conclusion to the festivities.

Unique experiences at Sun Siyam Iru Veli include Tai Chi sessions, spa treatments inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine, and a traditional Chinese hot pot meal served right on the beach. The resort’s festive decorations, including lanterns adorning the ocean villa jetty, create an enchanting atmosphere that’s perfect for celebrating the Lunar New Year.

An Unforgettable Start to the Year

Sun Siyam Resorts delivers the perfect mix of cultural experiences, luxury, and family-friendly fun to celebrate the Lunar New Year. From lively performances to relaxing spa treatments and thrilling excursions, each resort offers its own unique take on the festivities. These experiences promise to make the Year of the Snake unforgettable. Sun Siyam Resorts ensures you start the year in style, with cherished memories that will last a lifetime