A Talent for Hospitality - Hotelier Maldives
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A Talent for
Hospitality
hotelier.mv | Volume 8 | Issue 56
HOTEL REVIEW FIRST LOOK THE GM’S VIEW WELLNESS
South Palm Resort The Signature Henri Arnulphy, INTERVIEW WITH
Maldives - Addu Atoll’s Collection by Constance Moofushi DR RAHUL KRISHNAN,
Secluded Gem Hideaway SPA MANAGER, SUN
SIYAM IRU FUSHI
CONTENTS
18 16 28
24
HOTEL REVIEW
SOUTH PALM
RESORT FIRST LOOK
SPECIAL FEATURE
MALDIVES THE SIGNATURE
A TALENT FOR
50 ON 50
- ADDU ATOLL’S MU MANIKU, CHAIRMAN, COLLECTION BY
HOSPITALITY SECLUDED GEM UNIVERSAL ENTERPRISES HIDEAWAY
30 33 44 12 NEW OPENINGS
MALDIVES TO SEE TWELVE NEW
RESORT OPENINGS IN 2022
42 ISLAND HOTEL REVIEW
COMFORT IN THE CITY –
H78 BEACHFRONT HOTEL,
HULHUMALE’
35 EXCLUSIVE
STRUGGLE AND SUCCESS: THE STORY OF
HUSSAIN SHAHID, EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT 54 DESIGN
AN INSIGHT INTO
MANAGER, HOLIDAY INN RESORT GX ASSOCIATES
THE GM’S VIEW THE GM’S VIEW WOMEN IN HOSPITALITY KANDOOMA MALDIVES
HENRI ARNULPHY, GAVIN SANDERS, MONIKA ANGLIKER, 60 EDUCATION & TRAINING
RADISSON BLU GUEST SERVICES HOW TO EFFECTIVELY
CONSTANCE MOOFUSHI
RESORT MALDIVES MANAGER,
47 AIRLINES
IATA FIGURES SHOW DIP IN DEMAND FOR LEAD YOUR TEAM INTO A
AIR TRAVEL AROUND THE WORLD FROM 2019 POST-PANDEMIC WORLD
KANDOLHU MALDIVES
56 AIRLINES
70 PURCHASING POWER
9 NEWS & EVENTS 40 HAPPENINGS
LAUNCHING 38 CAREERS
MEET ALI WAHEED, THE
SHUBHAM MOONDHARA, HEAD OF CORPORATE
STRATEGY & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, TRANS
KABIRDOSS INIYAN,
PURCHASING MANAGER,
CEREMONY HIGHLY EXPERIENCED MALDIVIAN AIRWAYS HIDEAWAY BEACH
14 EVENT CALENDAR OF THE MANTA WINGS
APPRENTICESHIP
BOAT CAPTAIN AT SUN
SIYAM IRU FUSHI
RESORT & SPA
PROGRAMME 52 F&B
ABDUL MATHEEN ADAM, RESTAURANT MANAGER, ADVERTISER’S INDEX
48 KEY APPOINTMENTS
39 CAREERS THE EDGE, GRAND PARK KODHIPPARU
41 HAPPENINGS
BBM ENTERS 2022
PREMGEETH P NAIR,
CHIEF ENGINEER,
MUNI Homecare 2
72 BUYER’S GUIDE INSPIRING YOUNG GRAND PARK 53 F&B
LG & SPIRE STRENGTHENS ITS INTERNATIONAL
Villa Hakatha 3
CHEFS IN KODHIPPARU SEARA Sports Maldives 4,5
PRESENCE IN THE MALDIVES
THE MALDIVES TTS Maldives 27
78 LISTINGS
64 WELLNESS
63 SUSTAINABILITY IFS Maldives 45,69
46 A DAY IN THE LIFE OF
A DAY IN THE LIFE
INTERVIEW WITH DR
RAHUL KRISHNAN, SPA
EMPORIA AND GULF APPARELS SUPPORT
SUSTAINABILITY IN ITS EXPANSION INTO MALDIVES
Deli United
Lals Group
51
56,63
OF YASITH KESHAN MANAGER, SUN SIYAM IRU Trans Maldivian Airways 56
FUSHI
ILAA Maldives 68
58 WATERSPORTS & DIVING
FIFTY YEARS OF Reollo Enterprises 71
DIVING IN THE SUNNY 66 WELLNESS
HEIDI GRIMWOOD, VICE Sea Gear 79
SIDE PRESIDENT, ELE I NA SPA Greenpath Pvt Ltd 80
6 www.hotelier.mv ISSUE 56 HOTELIER MALDIVES 7
EDITORIAL NEWS & EVENTS
Brad Calder Awarded Best General Manager
A Talent for Hospitality Worldwide at Hotel Travel Awards
Dear Readers, Hotelier Maldives Brad Calder, cluster general of all of our environmental
Volume 8, Issue No: 56 manager of Hurawalhi Island efforts to eliminate single use
Welcome to issue 56 of Hotelier Maldives. Resort and Kudadoo Maldives plastics, optimize recycling and
EDITORIAL Private Island, has been composting for our organic
Mohamed Mamduh, titled ‘Best General Manager garden and capture the sun
Maldives is celebrating 50 years of the tourism industry
Managing Editor, Worldwide’ at the Hotel Travel for our energy needs. ‘Luxury
and celebrations are planned for each month. Earlier this
mamduh@hoteliermaldives.com Awards 2021. Treading Lightly’ has always
year the Ministry of Tourism had announced a calendar of
been our motto to protect this
events of which a panel discussion among the pioneers of Naufal Naeem, The Hotel Travel Awards beautiful environment in which
the industry was held at the Maldives National University. Editorial Advisor and Contributor we live.
recognises and rewards
We at Hotelier Maldives are marketing the year with a new
hotels worldwide based on
series; 50 on 50, profiling 50 individuals and corporations Donna Richardson, the exceptional service and “Our acclaimed 5.8 Undersea
that have made the most impact on the industry and who Contributing Editor facilities they provide to their Restaurant also was awarded
are set to do so in the next 50 years. We start the series guests. They use a stringent the Finest Luxury Underwater
with the profile of MU Maniku, chairman of Universal Naza Nazeem, inspection procedure carried Restaurant Worldwide and
Resorts and Chairman of the Board of Directors at Maldives Content Marketing Executive out by world-class inspectors to continues to grow into an iconic
Association of Tourism Industry (MATI). honour the establishments they restaurant recognized the
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS work with. world over to deliver culinary
Aminath Shiuleen, Janet Smailes, Sahla excellence in a truly unique and
Rapid growth and increase in arrivals over the past decade and more has challenged Zahir, Balsam Iyaz, Emilio Fortini, Laura
Hurawalhi also won two other natural setting.
Maldivian hoteliers in recruiting the manpower required to effectively run their Williams, Aminath Zahir, Nabeeha
properties. Recent studies confirm this and present a scenario where we will have a total awards worldwide: Finest
Ahmed and Leesha Haneef
Luxury Sustainable Hotel and “I feel very honoured and of
of 86,519 workers employed in the tourism sector (compared to the current figure of
Finest Luxury Underwater course humbled to receive
49,129) if all anticipated projects are completed on time. This is a significant increase and LAYOUT DESIGN & COVER ARTWORK Restaurant. the accolade for Best General
we look at the issue in the cover story for this edition. Ali Riyaz Manager Worldwide. Of course
Speaking of the awards, General such an achievement is not
In our regular segments, we have reviewed South Palm Resort in the southern most PHOTOGRAPHS COURTESY OF THE possible without having such
Manager Brad Calder said: “We
atoll of Maldives, Addu Atoll. It is currently two properties operating in the atoll that are FOLLOWING: a wonderful team to support
are all ecstatic to receive the
Velana International Airport, Hurawalhi the vision that I set to deliver
located on private islands. With several dive sites, rich history and captivating views, award of Finest Sustainable
Maldives, The Nautilus Maldives, would not have been possible. one of the leading resorts in the
Addu Atoll is one of the most unique locations in the Maldives. For those looking to Luxury Resort Worldwide memorable moments to our
Madifushi Private Island, Hilton I look forward to Hurawalhi Maldives and worldwide.”
discover these experiences and seeking serenity, South Palm Resort Maldives offers an as this is a true recognition guests. Without my team this
Maldives Amingiri, Kanuhura Maldives, continuing to be recognised as
unforgettable stay. Faarufushi Maldives, Nova Maldives,
In the GM’s view segment, we have interviewed Henri Arnulphy, General Manager at
Constance Moofushi and Gavin Sander, General Manager at Radisson Blu Resort Maldives.
OBLU Xperience Ailafushi, OBLU Select
Lobigili, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives,
South Palm Resort Maldives, Hideaway
Vaccinated Travellers Allowed Quarantine-Free
In addition to this, we also profile several other professionals working in the Maldives
hospitality industry, both local and expats.
Beach Resort & Spa, Constance
Moofushi, Radisson Blu Resort
Maldives, h78 Beachfront Hotel, Patina
Travel between Maldives and Singapore
Maldives Fari Islands, Euro Divers, Le
In the Buyer’s Guide, we have featured trending products and suppliers and feature an With Maldives among the
Méridien Maldives Resort & Spa and
interview with the Purchasing Manager of Hideaway Beach Resort and Spa, Kabirdoss countries of Singapore’s
Freepik
Iniyan. Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL)
CLIENT RELATIONS scheme, fully vaccinated
If you would like to comment or publish an opinion article, please email them to & ADVERTISEMENT SALES passengers are now allowed
mamduh@hoteliermaldives.com or info@perspective.mv sales@hoteliermaldives.com, quarantine-free entry into
+960 7910858 Singapore. The first VTL flight
from Maldives was operated
Sincerely,
MEDIA AND PUBLIC RELATIONS by Singapore Airlines on 16
Naza Nazeem December 2021.
naza@hoteliermaldives.com
Ms Susan Yong, General
Manager- Maldives,
Singapore Airlines said: “The
commencement of VTL flights
from Male to Singapore is a
reflection of the importance
of the Maldives market. We
Mohamed Mamduh
are excited to welcome more
Managing Editor passengers on board our
PUBLISHER
flights.”
PERSPECTIVE PVT LTD
4th Floor, M. Kaneeru Villa,
Orchid Magu Flights between Male and
Male, Republic of Maldives, Singapore were temporarily operations and currently a week as the designated VTL from seven to ten times a week,
PO Box No 20212 suspended in March 2020. By operates daily flights between flight. To further boost air from 2 January 2022.
MU Maniku is profiled in our new series 50 on 50 in this issue. (Seen here Mobile: +960 7246292, +960 7999008 December 2020, Singapore Male and Singapore, with links, Singapore Airlines will be
with Managing Director, Hotelier Maldives, Mohamed Mamduh and Janet Email: info@hoteliermaldives.com Airlines had resumed its SQ437 operating three times increasing its flight frequency
Smailes, Contributing Editor at Hotelier Maldives) www.hoteliermaldives.com
8 www.hotelier.mv ISSUE 56 HOTELIER MALDIVES 9
NEWS & EVENTS
Maldives Government Seeks Bids to Develop
and Operate Resorts
On 17 January, the Ministry The newly announced three 2022 EDITORIAL CALENDAR
of Tourism (MoT) announced islands are Dhigurah, Medhurah
three islands to be leased as and Mairah (Dhiguvelidhoo)
a cluster from Shaviyani Atoll with USD 1,200,000 set as the
Hotelier Maldives magazine is published bi-monthly and
Maldives. This announcement minimum lease acquisition cost covers all aspects of hotel operations.
came as a revision to MoT’s for all three cluster islands from
initial Invitation for Bids (IFB) Shaviyani Atoll. The revised IFB
first published on 26 October now entails 19 available islands
2021 welcoming investment for tourism investment.
opportunities for foreign and
local investors interested in
developing and operating a
tourist resort in the country.
Sustainability, Wellness and
Plastic and Wellbeing in
The Nautilus Maldives Launches Innovative Wellness Climate Post-Pandemic
Top 10
Change
Experience with Ananda in The Himalayas Honeymoon
Resorts
able to experience signature
Ananda Meditation and Issue 57 Issue 58 Issue 59
Breathwork practices through
guided audio sessions as part of
the daily schedule at the Solasta
Spa overwater yoga pavilion
to enhance its extensive spa
offerings. The Ananda Dhyana
meditation and breathwork
series is specially designed
for guests at The Nautilus
to recharge themselves by Conservation
enhancing clarity of thought
and achieving a heightened
Tourism: A
sense of balance. The Hotel Training and Balancing
Investment Development Mechanism
From January to March 2022,
guests at The Nautilus will Guide in a People’s
be invited to experience a Industry
selection of signature Ananda
gourmet wellness cuisine as Issue 60 Issue 61 Issue 62
part of the culinary offerings
at The Nautilus. Ananda’s
signature wellness cuisine
The Nautilus Maldives has experiences and its “anytime, strong expertise of Ananda.” incorporates key Ayurvedic
partnered with the world’s top anywhere, as you please” principles, with natural
ranked destination spa and concept of hospitality, set “The concept of Ananda is a foods low in fat and calories,
wellness retreat, Ananda in The against the magical backdrop journey towards discovering emphasising whole grains,
Himalayas, to offer a first of of the Baa Atoll in the Maldives, the inner self aided by ancient fresh fruits and vegetables,
its kind wellbeing experience. beckons guests to come as they wellness practices and a lean proteins, low-fat dairy
The collaboration begins in are. retreat to places of solace products, and the avoidance of
January 2022 and combines where tranquil nature and added or artificial salts, colours,
the confluence of the majestic Mohamed Ashraf, General nurturing care create lasting flavours, or preservatives.
Himalayas and the expansive Manager of The Nautilus transformations,” says Mahesh
Indian Ocean. Maldives says: “With the Natarajan, Chief Operating Further, a unique multi-day
recent events and changed Officer, Ananda in the Ananda Wellness Retreat at The
Ananda, located in the life circumstances, health Himalayas. “The partnering of Nautilus is already in the works
tranquil Himalayan foothills, awareness and a sustainable Ananda’s wellness expertise for April 2022. The retreat will
is renowned for its traditional lifestyle are becoming with bespoke luxury from The introduce Ananda experts in SCAN TO DOWNLOAD
Ayurveda, Yoga, Meditation and increasingly important for Nautilus across two magical residence at The Nautilus from HOTELIER MALDIVES
Vedanta with transformational our guests. Therefore, we are destinations presents a unique April 7 to 11, 2022, conducting MEDIA KIT 2022
wellness programmes, delighted to have found such and immersive opportunity to daily classes, workshops
guided by leading experts in a strong partner in the field of our global patrons.” and guided sessions in yoga,
these fields. Meanwhile, The holistic wellbeing and to further meditation and presenting
Nautilus is known as one the enhance the wellness journey As part of the partnership, Ananda’s gourmet wellness
most bespoke private island of our guests together with the guests at The Nautilus will be cuisine.
10 www.hotelier.mv ISSUE 56 HOTELIER MALDIVES 11
NEW OPENINGS BY NAZ A NAZEEM NEW OPENINGS BY NAZ A NAZEEM
Maldives to See Twelve New
Resort Openings in 2022
After eight exciting openings this Madifushi Private Island
year, the Maldives is set to see the Madifushi is a 16-hectare nature centric island in Meemu Atoll
opening of twelve new properties in boasting 200 rooms either set amongst the tropical flora and
fauna, the beach or over-water. All villas and suites are complete
the upcoming year, an addition of 1572 with a terrace that leads to a private pool with access to the palm- Emerald Faarufushi Resort & Spa OBLU Xperience Ailafushi
fringed beach or perched over the Indian Ocean with either a
rooms. With these new properties, sunset or sunrise view. Emerald Collection’s second property in the Maldives, Emerald Oblu Xperience Ailafushi, opening in March 2022, is all about
Faarufushi is expected to open to guests on 1st May 2022. Located immersion in a free-spirited Maldivian vibe. In the local language
the total number of registered resorts at the northern tip of Raa Atoll, the resort features 80 independent of Dhivehi, ‘Aila’ means family and ‘Fushi’ means island. True to its
villas. A private dock leads to 39 Water Villas with Pool and three name, this 268-villa resort brings a fresh, experiential environment
in Maldives is expected to reach 179 Superior Water Villas with Pool. There are also 27 Beach Villas, 10 of where guests can enjoy an island escape. Guests can join a group
which are with private pools, along with 10 Family Beach Villas with Zumba class or book a 3D movie at The Dome, a futuristic 15-metre
resorts. Most of these new openings Pool and one Presidential Beach Villa. entertainment centre available from July 2022. Alternatively, they
can choose to socialise with like-minded souls at La Promenade,
are located in Male’ Atoll, followed by offering exhilarating retail and café options, or experience alfresco
Raa Atoll and South Ari Atoll. dining at The Copper Pot Truck, offering fresh seafood.
Avani + Fares Maldives
Making its debut in August 2022, Avani + Fares brings relaxed
contemporary charm to one of the world’s dreamiest island
destinations. Located in Baa Atoll, the resort is comprised of 200
Nova Maldives
guest rooms, including standard rooms and a selection of villas.
Facilities include an all-day restaurant, a speciality restaurant, the With a modern All-Inclusive Community Concept, Nova Maldives
Pantry designer deli, AvaniSpa, AvaniKids and a large swimming offers a laidback retreat in South Ari Atoll. Smart, playful, rooted
pool and pool bar. and responsible, Nova Maldives embodies the very essence of the
Pulse Hotels & Resorts brand, infusing genuine hospitality with a
human touch and innovative solutions that make use of the latest
technology – not to mention a playful spirit. The resort features
Hilton Maldives 76 villas in ten different categories. There are five restaurants and
bars, Eskape Spa and a variety of recreational activities.
Amingiri Resort & Spa
The 109 all-villa Hilton Maldives Amingiri is a family-friendly
getaway in Male’ Atoll. This is the fourth resort under the Hilton’s
portfolio of brands in the Maldives, joining Waldorf Astoria
Maldives Ithaafushi, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island and SAii
Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton. The resort features Alila Kothaifaru Maldives
six restaurants and bars, as well as a spa and wellness center and a
pool. Hilton Amingiri is set to open in the second quarter of 2022. Opening early 2022, Alila Kothaifaru Maldives will offer guests
serenity and adventure in Raa Atoll. Guests can enjoy spectacular
sunrise or sunset views from one of the 80 beachfront and
Maniya Faru Resort overwater villas or dive excursions to Hanifaru Bay, a UNESCO
World Biosphere Reserve.
Located in South Male’ Atoll, the island of Maniya Faru will join
sister property Reethi Faru Resort at the end of next year. The Six Senses Kanuhura
luxury resort features 110 seafront villas, an ala carte restaurant, Oblu Select Lobigili ZAZZ Island Maldives
and an overwater spa. The Six Senses brand will add Kanuhura in Lhaviyani atoll to their
portfolio in late 2022. Six Senses Kanuhura will offer 80 private Opening in February 2022, Oblu Select Lobigili is an adults- Located in South Ari Atoll, ZAZZ Island Maldives is part of ZAZZ
overwater, beach and spacious family villas offering sunset or only haven ideal for a chilled-out getaway. Lobigili translates Escapes collection and is set to open in Q3 2022. The property
Amari Kudakurathu Maldives sunrise views. Encompassing three private islands – two deserted from Dhivehi as ‘Island of Love.’ There are 68 vibrant chic beach is designed to take guests on a journey of discovery and fun – a
neighbouring islands and Kanuhura itself – this laid-back retreat and overwater villas and an underwater restaurant, Only Blu choice to disconnect or share adventures while scene shifting
With 200 keys, Amari is set to open its second resort in September is the epitome of white sands, turquoise lagoons, lush tropical Underwater Restaurant. The unique, multi-sensory culinary back to nature, without giving up the human privileges of comfort
2022. Amari Kudakurathu is situated in the pristine Raa Atoll. greenery and gently swaying palm trees to doze under. journey features gourmet cuisine set against a colourful backdrop and convenience. ZAZZ island offers a choice of six dining venues,
of marine life. a wellness centre and 101 overwater and beach villas.
12 www.hotelier.mv ISSUE 56 HOTELIER MALDIVES 13
EVENT CALENDER
IBTM ASIA PACIFIC
Apr 5 – 6, 2022 HOW TO BE COMPETITIVE IN 2022 INTERNATIONAL HOTEL TECHNOLOGY
Marina Bay Sands Singapore
Singapore, Singapore
Thu, Apr 14, 2022 – 8:00 PM
HN Summit Series - The REVENUEMANAGER - Season 2 - Episode #2
FORUM (IHTF) 2022 HICSA 2022
Apr 27 – 28, 2022 Apr 6 – 7, 2022
Brought to you by the most experienced name in MICE events, The pandemic has obviously changed a lot. New technology has TBA Grand Hyatt
IBTM Asia Pacific provides a gateway to the Asia Pacific meetings, evolved, travel behavior has changed, guests’ needs are different. Madrid, Spain Mumbai, India
incentives, conferences and events market. Meet with a curated How should hoteliers respond to this new reality? How can we
mix of industry suppliers and pre-qualified hosted buyers and be ensure the hotel remains competitive in 2022 and beyond? With COVID slowly coming under control, Arena International are The Hotel Investment Conference-South Asia (HICSA), since
inspired by content that will help elevate your events. delighted to announce the return of our IHTF in physical format. its inaugural edition in 2005, has been an unequalled gathering
About HNtv Summit Series Coming to Vienna in April, platform for the hospitality industry the world over. The
IBTM Asia Pacific is the leading event for the meetings and events conference is valued for its content-rich sessions and excellent
industry in the region bringing together a high calibre group Connecting over 200 C-Suite delegates to discuss the latest networking opportunities attracting the hospitality industry’s
As the trusted voice for professionals in global hospitality, HNtv
of international, APAC regional and local meeting planners and challenges and innovation of technological advancement in the top brands, hotel owners, bankers, developers, and professional
Summit Series play a critical role in leading the conversation
exhibitors for two days of pre-scheduled one-to-one business hospitality sector. advisors from around the globe.
on the future of our industry. The Series brings together key
meetings, education and networking. The event is under-
decision-makers and influential thinkers from across the sector,
pinned by IBTM’s sophisticated, industry-leading Hosted Buyer with hospitality one of the worst hit during the pandemic but not The 17th edition of the Hotel Investment Conference-South
as we continue to drive the conversation forward bringing people
programme which creates personalised appointment diaries for on the mend; the event will bring together hoteliers, management Asia (HICSA) is scheduled to be held on 6th and 7th April 2022
together and creating new pathways to interact and connect.
Hosted Buyers and exhibitors to ensure that delegates only meet companies, OTAs, and solution providers to discuss the learnings at the Grand Hyatt Mumbai. While the previous edition sought
Click here to see the full schedule of upcoming episodes.
people with whom there’s a very good chance of doing business. and challenges of 2021, how technology is helping transform to understand the damage caused by the pandemic, this edition
the hotel industry while looking forward to in enhancing guest of HICSA will be centred around Resilience. Two of the most
This event is organized by RX experience to increasing revenue and driving profitability. challenging years in recent times will soon be behind us, and
notwithstanding the sparks of hope that have highlighted this
unprecedented period, it is imperative that we understand the
This event is organized by Arena International Events Group
road to a complete recovery. We are proud to share that this
edition of HICSA will feature 45% new speakers and another
10-15% who have graced the HICSA stage only once before. The
conference is unique and special this year as for the very first time
it showcases an impressive gender representation with more than
20% of speakers being inspiring women. A collection of keynote
addresses, group and panel discussions will tell the story of the
ARABIAN TRAVEL MARKET 2022 ordeal we continue to face and the ongoing journey of hospitality
towards better days. The theme of this year’s conference is about
ITB INDIA May 8 – 11, 2022 that journey where the collective focus is on working at it harder,
Apr 5 – 6, 2022 Dubai World Trade Centre trying to make it better, doing it faster, making us all stronger -
https://www.itb-india.com/ Dubai, United Arab Emirates Harder, Better, Faster and Stronger.
ITB India 2022 will be an all-virtual event with the physical show At Arabian Travel Market, we connect you, the global travel trade,
INTERNATIONAL HOSPITALITY The HICSA organizing committee is extremely grateful to all the
postponed to 2023. Scheduled on the same dates, ITB India 2022 with an insight of how the industry will look in the next five years, INVESTMENT FORUM (IHIF) 2022 speakers, sponsors, supporters, and delegates for showing your
Virtual will be held from 5 – 7 April 2022. After close observations share innovations, and create endless business opportunities over May 3 – 5, 2022 trust in us and extending your continuous support and looks
of international developments of the COVID-19 pandemic, the the course of four days. forward to welcoming all of you at HICSA 2022.
Berlin
spread of the Omicron variant, and extensive conversations with
local authorities and partners, the show organisers made the
Berlin, Germany This event is organized by Hotelivate Private Limited
Our conference programme is specifically created with you in
difficult decision to move the show completely virtual, which now mind. Hear from top motivational speakers, entrepreneurs, and IHIF is the place where the global hotel community meets;
gives exhibitors and trade visitors maximum planning security. leadership figures from a variety of sectors such as Destinations, where it joins together as one. This is what always sets IHIF
Travel Technology, Airlines, Cruise, Hospitality, Car Rental, Hotels apart and makes it distinct. This year’s event, which gathered
ITB India Virtual brings together key travel industry leaders and Hospitality. over 1,200 senior leaders, was held on the 1-3 September at the
and international exhibitors from various segments of MICE, InterContinental Berlin, and arguably carried more meaning than
Leisure, Corporate and Travel Technology. The B2B virtual event You’ll also find practical tips and simple innovations from in years past. It is proof that as an industry we can set the example
builds the bridge to the Indian and South Asian travel markets, exhibitors and new products being showcased exclusively at ATM. for the world to travel and convene —confidently and safely.
offering three full days of virtual business appointments and
digital conference programme. After the virtual trade show, all For the first time ever, ATM 2021 was a hybrid event with an in- Over 180 industry-leading speakers took to the stage, addressing
conference sessions will remain online until 6 May 2022, and person show in the Dubai World Trade Centre and a virtual event both the challenges and the plethora of opportunities that
all registered participants have full access to the conference which took place the following week designed for those who could have come out of the pandemic, including Tony Capuano, CEO,
recordings. With ITB Community in Asia (ITB Community), the not attend the show in Dubai. Our visitors contributed to what Marriott International, Dillip Rajakarier, CEO, Minor Hotel Group,
organiser had already established a global virtual platform for the was an incredible and successful event, so thank you again for Christopher Nassetta, President & CEO, Hilton, Christopher
tourism industry where exhibitors can successfully leverage on attending and we look forward to seeing you in 2022. Norton, CEO, Equinox Hotels, David Kong, CEO, BWH Hotel Group
virtual appointments with Indian and South Asian travel buyers
, Federico J González, CEO, Radisson Hotel Group, Hubert Viriot,
and international delegates.
CEO, Yotel, Patrick Pacious, President & CEO, Choice Hotels
International and Sébastien Bazin, Chairman & CEO, Accor. To
This virtual event is organized by Messe Berlin GmbH view our speaker line-up in full please click here.
This event is organized by Questex
14 www.hotelier.mv ISSUE 56 HOTELIER MALDIVES 15
HOTEL REVIEW BY NAZ A NAZEEM
South Palm
deck with a daybed and direct
access to the lagoon. Lastly, the
resort’s newest accommodation
option is the exclusive Over-
Water Pool Villa, perfect for
honeymooners seeking a great
Resort Maldives
view, utmost privacy plus a
spacious 75sqm room.
DINING
At the resort’s main restaurant
Banyan, guests are spoiled for
- Addu Atoll’s Secluded Gem
choice with mouth-watering
buffets for breakfast, lunch and
dinner. You will find traditional
Maldivian cuisines as well as
international cuisines. The
experience comes with amazing
views of the Indian Ocean.
With several dive
sites, rich history and After dinner, head over to
captivating views, the poolside Moodhu Bar for
your favourite cocktails and
Addu Atoll is one entertainment till midnight.
of the most unique Close to Water Villas, the
Kanduolhi Bar is the perfect
locations in the setting for a sunset cocktail ACTIVITIES
Maldives. With every or an afternoon snack. It also
features a large barbecue for Due to its pristine location in
island passed, there’s grilling delicious meats and Addu Atoll, guests at South Palm
a different story fish and is the ideal place for Resort Maldives will never run
special events. Furthermore, out of things to do. They have a
to tell. For those if you are in the mood to stay choice of thirty different diving
looking to discover in, count on the staff to deliver spots to explore, including the
your meal to your villa. In-villa popular British Loyalty wreck.
these experiences dining is available 24 hours. On Other activities on water
and seeking serenity, special requests, the resort also include windsurfing, kayaking,
arranges candlelight dinners private snorkelling, kite surfing
South Palm Resort and beach BBQ dinners. and etc.
Maldives offers an
WELLNESS Throughout the week, the
unforgettable stay experience takes a new level of The Kurumba Spa Signature
resort has a list of daily
different, with its Kurumba Spa massage is a favourite
and is currently the The Maldives is a well-known floating on a freshwater lagoon! among guests. It is a relaxing
activities, such as sunset fishing
on Mondays and Maldivian
only private island The resort’s natural beauty is The Sunrise Villa is its most
wellness destination, home to combination of four massages,
nights on Fridays. For a taste of
BOOKING a variety of spas; some perched Guests are taken to the floating starting with a 30-minute long
resort open in the enriched by a freshwater lake affordable accommodation over the water while others spa rooms on a traditional strokes and deep skin massage
the rich culture and heritage in
the area, take an Addu City tour
Atoll. Guests can book directly on the island and its proximity
to local islands.
category, featuring stylish
interiors; sleek lines and soft
are located within the lush dhoni. A wide range of sessions and ending with a 30-minute
and visit Gan the former RAF
with the resort online and greenery or the beach. At South are available including Balinese reflexology to give you a feeling
linen within the 50sqm space. base or visit Hulhumeedhoo
through email reservations@ Palm Resort Maldives, wellness and Ayurvedic treatments. of overall comfort.
After your arrival at Velana Located deeper within the island, where you can see
southpalmresort.com. Rates
International Airport (VIA), you greenery are Palm Villas that are some of the Second World War
range from USD 270 per
are provided complimentary the same size as Sunrise Villas, remains near the beach area
night to USD 700 per night
access to the VIP lounge. but a just a few steps from and the oldest cemetery in the
on full board during high
From VIA, it takes a 70-minute the beach. The most popular country “Koagannu”. You can
season. The resort has also
domestic flight to Gan choice among guests are Beach also hire a skilled photographer
curated a selection of added-
International Airport and a Villas, where you can enjoy from the resort to capture these
value packages with special
further ten-minute scenic the spectacular Indian Ocean amazing moments or head to
entitlements that are tailored to
speedboat ride to the island. sunsets right from your 65sqm the resort’s souvenir shop for
guests’ personal needs.
Guests can also fly directly to villa and private beach. If you’re some incredible mementos.
Gan International Airport from travelling with children, the
LOCATION AND Bandaranaike International 100sqm Family Villas are located At the end of your stay at South
GETTING THERE Airport, Colombo via Sri Lankan next to the Kids’ Park, where Palm Resort Maldives, you’ll be
Airlines from November 2021. various fun-filled activities are packing countless unforgettable
Situated in a secluded corner of planned for them with 24-hour memories and rich local
the southernmost Addu Atoll, babysitting service. experiences to take back home
ACCOMMODATION with you.
South Palm Resort Maldives
is surrounded by stunning Perched above the azure water,
South Palm Resort Water Villas are 70sqm and
ocean views, a beautiful beach
Maldives offers six different feature a modern wooden
and lush tropical vegetation.
accommodation options.
16 www.hotelier.mv ISSUE 56 HOTELIER MALDIVES 17
SPECIAL FEATURE BY NAZ A NAZEEM, AMINATH SHIULEEN
A Talent for
Tourism and its Impact on Employment
Over the past fifty years, the pandemic, total arrivals plunged After 2021 concluded with over
tourism and hospitality industry to its lowest in fifteen years, 1.3 million arrivals, the year
has brought tremendous affecting thousands of jobs. 2022 looked optimistic for the
prosperity and progress to industry. As of January 2022,
the country. It is the largest The Resort Employee Survey the Maldives had 162 resorts,
Hospitality
sector of Maldives’ economy conducted by National Bureau 10 hotels, 146 liveaboards and
providing for more than 22.3 of Statistics in 2019 revealed 623 guesthouses across the
per cent of the country’s GDP that an estimated 44,954 country representing the broad
and more than one-third employees were working in the nature of the industry in this
of the government revenue 147 tourist resorts. The Survey small island nation where the
(source: Tourism Yearbook 2021, conducted in 2020 showed that local population is only 540,000.
Ministry of Tourism). there were 48,664 employees Monthly arrivals exceeded
employed in the 155 resorts 109,000 tourists in January.
Consumption expenditures at the beginning of the year.
of tourists provide direct This is an 8 percent increase However, as per research
or indirect employment between the nine-month period conducted by the government
opportunities in the tourism from April 2019 to January 2020. and other agencies, there is
industry. The rapid growth of During the lockdown from a massive shortfall of local
Maldives opened its door Twenty-five years later, in 1997, international tourism has led to March to July 2020, the number manpower for tourism services
the island nation welcomed the numerous job creations within of employees mid-year (June) compared with the increasing
to international tourists
first internationally branded the country. Tourism can create 2020 stood at 4,713, based on number of tourists. The key
in 1972 with the opening resort in the Maldives, Hilton employment directly through the operational staff active at to sustained and sustainable
of the first resort in the Maldives Resort and Spa. The resorts, hotels, restaurants, 46 resorts. At the end of 2020, growth of Maldives tourism
country, Kurumba Village. entrance of international and souvenir sales and there were 35,887 employees sector is internationally
hotel brands had challenged indirectly through the supply employed in 140 resorts. competitive and flexible
At the time, this remote
the country’s talent pool to of commodities needed by enterprises built on the quality
archipelago was only meet exacting and demanding tourism-related businesses. of their products and services,
A recent report by the Ministry
inhabited by fisher folk standards to meet new of Economic Development and delivered by a workforce
and was unknown to the performance benchmarks. From 2009 until 2019, the states that out of the 181,144 that is trained to a high
outside world and with Maldives benefited from total employed population standard and able to develop
Maldives’ solid reputation a steady growth in tourist in the Maldives, the service and grow within the workplace.
no foreign investment for luxury tourism and the arrivals. In fact, the number sector represents almost 74
to speak of. There was ongoing expansion of tourist of arrivals almost tripled over per cent. The report goes on
only a small airstrip infrastructure bodes well the period from 2000 to 2019. to mention that a total of 3,769
on Hulhule’ Island (the for medium-term growth. The year 2020 began with the individuals reported to have
Nonetheless, high dependence same momentum, with January been terminated from their
present international on tourism and limited recording a 14 per cent increase jobs, of which approximately 50
airport), developed with near-term prospects for in arrivals compared to January per cent took place in tourist
the labor of volunteering diversification mean that 2019. However, due to the resorts.
men and women from the the economy remains highly
vulnerable to external shocks.
country, with no regular Addressing skills mismatches
flights. in the labor market can enable
more Maldivians to reap the
benefits from growth.
18 www.hotelier.mv ISSUE 56 HOTELIER MALDIVES 19SPECIAL FEATURE
The Challenges in Developing Talent Actions and Solutions
A variety of factors create Gender However, it seems that this
Education Now the big question Training Needs vessels). With an increase of The study (Training Needs
issue has improved greatly 35,000 beds according to the Analysis of the Tourism Sector)
challenges in developing comes down to what is
the local talent pool. Imbalance compared to the past. In a
percent Women in Hospitality
System being done, as one of Analysis of the Strategic Action Plan 2019-
2023 and an assumed even
also identified initial skill gaps
and training requirements. It
The geography of the
The Resort Employee Survey
(published in Hotelier Maldives)
Many industry professionals
the world’s most sought Tourism Sector distribution over the three revealed that the private sector
Maldives, the gender of 2020 confirms that tourist
interview with Farsa Saeed,
would agree with Hussain after tourist destinations accommodation categories, and industry organizations
Sales Manager at St Regis 86,519 workers will be required have identified that there
imbalance and the resorts have remained and Shahid, Executive Assistant struggle with finding With the recent development
Maldives Vommuli Resort, pattern in the Maldives showing by 2023. This is excluding the are skill gaps and training
education system are continue to be a male dominant
said, “Initially there were a
Manager, Holiday Inn Resort manpower. turnover rates. The survey also requirements in the following
sector where 88 per cent are Kandooma; when he said in a an imbalance between labor
some of the main factors. lot of raised eyebrows and demand and supply, the reveals that no employment areas: soft skills, information
men, with only 12 per cent recent interview with Hotelier
judgment from society for growth has been foreseen for communication and technology
of the employees as women.
leaving family behind and living
Maldives that the Maldives is Regulations Government is implementing
the “Maldives: Enhancing the travel agency sector, as it skills, e-commerce and digital
Geography Among males only 40 per cent
were locals and among female
among strangers on a remote
quite behind in education when
compared to many countries. Employability and Resilience appears overstaffed at present marketing, financial literacy and
island. I believe we have come The regulation of the levels with a lot of in-active bookkeeping, language, culinary
employees only 3 per cent were “You cannot change some of Youth (MEERY)” project.
The bed capacity of the very far from mere five years Ministry of Tourism limits businesses. arts and food production,
locals. people’s paradigms once they The objective of the project is
Maldives has increased from ago. There are more and more the employment of foreigners event management, safety,
are sixteen or eighteen years to improve the relevance of
18,730 in 2000 to 51,827 in women joining the industry and to a 45:55 ratio of total Findings on the resort labor tour guiding, water sports
old. You need to start from the technical and vocational skills
2020. From this, over 70 per There are cultural and defying gender stereotyping – tourism employees, although activities and guesthouse
bottom of the educational level.” and foster entrepreneurship market indicates that the
cent of the beds are from social taboos against female proving that women can make a this percentage can be management. Identifying these
Shahid stated that schools to promote youth employment occupation of Chefs/Cooks
resorts. However, the problem employment in the tourism and difference here too. In terms of increased or decreased when gaps is a step forward into
in Maldives need to provide in priority sectors. As a step of remains the most important
is noticeable when we look hospitality sector in Maldives. opportunities, I have received necessary. Work permits providing the industry with a
students at a young age the this project, a national study in the future with growing
at the distribution of these The accommodation and many in the past few years are granted on employers’ quality labor market which in
chance to experience and learn - ‘Training Needs Analysis difficulties to find staff. This
resorts by atolls. Over 32 per tourism sector occupations which have helped me grow in request by the Ministry of return will contribute towards
what working at a resort is like. for the Tourism Sector’ was is followed by Food and
cent of the beds are in Male’ have a negative connotation my role.” Economic Development with enhancement of the country’s
He also said that educational compiled by MEERY Project Beverage services, Diving
Atoll, followed by Alifu Dhaalu that prompts parents to the possibility of renewal. tourism industry.
institutions should focus more Consultant Mr. Kai Partale and Instructors and Housekeepers.
with 11 per cent and Raa with discourage their daughters The Ministry of Economic
The tourism and hospitality on integrating education and was published in March 2020. Furthermore, when looking at
8.9 per cent. These changes are from seeking employment Development has the exclusive
industry can only be fully work experience. The study aimed to find out the reasons why resort workers Of note are also the several
mainly present due to lack of in this sector. Travel to authority to issue work permits
exploited when the local which jobs were available in the left their jobs voluntarily, job solutions for women’s’
accessibility and poor domestic resort islands, double shifts, to foreigners and record the
workforce, including women, tourism industry, the interests opportunities from competitors participation in the labor
transportation in certain areas. necessary in accommodation Furthermore, there are many permits issued.
participates in it. of youth, the required level of was the main reason, followed market offered in the study.
As a result, many young talents operation, are another major courses that are not available
training, how to engage more by low salary and lack of career This included establishing
in local islands are unable to obstacle disrupting family life here in the Maldives or offer Furthermore, as stated in the women in the industry and advancement. women and family-friendly
receive the opportunities that for married women, as is the poor quality of education. There Maldives Government Strategic which programmes are of need work conditions (eg: with
those in more developed areas necessity of providing official are also cases where many Action Plan 2019-2023, the to the industry. The report also found that programmes of transportation
in the Maldives receive. transportation from and to the young locals are not well aware Government intends to academic qualifications are to nearby resort islands),
island workplace so that women of the courses and institutions increase the representation of
The study identified some required most for positions in providing targeted gender-
can commute to work instead of in the country. Maldivians, particularly women
critical issues within the Resort Management, Human sensitive training, conducting
staying at the resort island. in tourism related employment,
industry to help formulate Resource Management, gender-focused projects in
and address issues relating to Accounting & Finance, tourism, supporting local
recommendations in various
employment rights through and Medical Services. The tourism development and more.
human resource areas such
introduction of minimum wage, proportion of diploma level
as skills analysis, recruitment,
regulation of service charge, qualifications is relatively high
selection, labor demand in
and strengthening labor rights. in positions such as Front
certain occupational areas,
and training and development. Office, Spa & Wellness, Clinic
These issues included the / Health Center, Powerhouse,
tourism and hospitality industry Diving and Water Sports.
not being an attractive industry Certificates are predominantly
to work in, low awareness of held in Transportation,
career paths in the industry Maintenance, and
and not utilizing local training Housekeeping
providers. positions.
According to a survey carried In general,
out from a cross-section of the the higher the
industry, the employee/bed positions were, the
ratio has been estimated at 1.2 higher percentage
person per bed for the resort of staff holding a
sector, 0.68 person per bed for diploma, bachelor’s, and a
the guesthouse sector and 0.48 postgraduate degree. It is also
person per bed for the hotel interesting to note that front
sector. With a total of 45,988 line staff, or those directly in
registered beds in 2019, 49,129 contact with guests, generally
workers are required across had a higher education degree
the three accommodation than those who did not.
sub-sectors (excluding safari
20 www.hotelier.mv ISSUE 56 HOTELIER MALDIVES 21SPECIAL FEATURE
Educational Institutions
The main educational Centers on other islands. Zeenath Solih - Dean, Faculty while they are doing internships
of Hospitality and Tourism at the resort.”
and training institutions The Training Needs
Studies, The Maldives National
in the Maldives tourism Analysis report stated University, informed the Challenges in sourcing and
and hospitality industry that MNU partners with audience during the third panel retaining the human resources
are Maldives National IHG Maamunagau for discussion at Hotelier Maldives required for the hospitality
GM Forum 2021, “One of the industry has increased during
University, Villa College, a duration of 240 – 720
systems we have implemented post-pandemic. However, it
Clique College, Maps hours depending on the in Maldives National University has also been an issue that has
College, and Maldives programme and Villa is outreach centers. Individual been ‘lurking’ to surface. It is
Polytechnic. While Male’ college with Villa Hotels, resorts, if they are willing, can critical that solutions to these
sign a MoU with us to conduct challenges be imagined now
is the main location for diveOceanus, and Q
our approved programs at the and plans and strategies drawn
education and training, Adventures for a duration resort. And if their lecturers are to realize them.
MNU, Villa College and of four weeks. fully qualified based on MQA
Maldives Polytechnic also standards, this is one way they
could recruit employees. They
offer courses at Regional
could find local talent from
Campuses/Outreach nearby islands and train them
22 www.hotelier.mv50 ON 50 BY JANET SMAILES
50 on 50 : A NEW ECONOMIC ERA
“The Maldives was very see the potential and Bandos
MU Maniku, Chairman,
different back then”, says was built, closely followed by
Maniku, “the country was poor, Villingili.
with less than 2.5 million in
annual revenue. The streets Word of the new island paradise
of Male’ were just sand, boats began to spread with tour
were small sailing or rowing operators venturing across
Universal Enterprises
vessels and the airport was little from Sri Lanka to investigate.
more than a landing strip for Once they had seen the allure
cargo planes that brought in they were quick to promote
supplies via Ceylon”. In addition, it, selling Maldives excursions
a previous UN study had to their European clientele.
concluded that the Maldives Swedish operator Vingresor was
“lacked the infrastructure one of the first, closely followed The first tourists to the Maldives in 1972
necessary to become a tourist
destination”.
To celebrate the 50th year of the Maldives MU recalls supplies, equipment
and communication were all
tourism industry, we are starting a new series None of this deterred them. And
a challenge during the early
bolstered by the success of the
commemorating 50 leaders in the industry with years. Everything had to be
first group they dug into their
done via morse code or ham
the most impact, both in the past and looking own pockets pooling their skills
radio and local communication
and resources to construct 30
to the future. was via walkie talkie and a huge
rooms on what is now Kurumba
mast! Supplies had to be flown
Maldives. The rooms were
in or put on cargo boats which
The first segment features MU Maniku, simple, coral walls and coconut
were often unreliable.
thatched roofs. A generator
Chairman of Universal Resorts and Chairman was procured from Singapore
and the labor came from With no investors to support
of the Board of Maldives Association of Tourism them, all the resorts were 100%
themselves with the support of
Industry (MATI). local craftsmen. The hard work Maldivian, built with hard work,
and long days were sustained grit and determination, all
by their drive and enthusiasm, profit was re-invested and long
hours were worked to keep the
However, they also realized places running. Desalination
that some professional help
PARADISE FOUND was needed if they were
plants proved to be a costly
investment and the first one
going to compete with their broke down within weeks of
“Without tourism the who of celebrities during the Maldives the following With no hotels, MU Manik and neighbors. This decision its arrival, so, as MU explains,
year. This was by no means his friends put the tourists up in resulted in the creation of a
Maldives would still its 50 years of growth. “we opened it up, examined the
straight forward as the only their homes; Maagiri, Luxwood small hotel school in Villingili contents and set about finding
be a very poor and method of communication and Kaneeru Villa, taking them (albeit informal), in 1980
It all started when his friend the necessary spare parts and
undeveloped country,” was morse code via Colombo! out each day to explore the enlisting one of MU’s previous programming information to
Ahmed Naseem, who was
says MU Maniku, stationed in Ceylon (now Sri
Despite the anxious waits nearby islands to fish and swim. classmates to run it, and get it working. We tested out
between messages the plan bringing across experts from
Maldives tourism pioneer Lanka), appeared on a cargo all manner of parts and cobbled
came together with Corbin and The trip was a great success Sri Lanka to teach the locals the them together. It wasn’t pretty
and Chairman of the boat with an Italian tour 19 fellow Italian adventurers and Corbin suggested that a arts and crafts of hospitality.
operator who was looking but it worked and continued
Maldives Association of flying from Italy to Ceylon and resort was built so he could Additionally, experienced working!”
for white sandy beaches and
Tourism Industry (MATI). crystal-clear waters to swim
onwards to the Maldives on bring more people to enjoy Chefs from Germany were
an Air Ceylon charter plane “Paradise”. recruited for Kurumba and
and fish in. Naseem introduced arriving on 16th February 1972. the industry began to gain its
MU Maniku did not the Italian George Corbin to
professionalism.
set out to be a tourism MU Manik and another friend,
Hussain Afeef, and the three
professional, he initially young men took pleasure in
studied agriculture in hosting their Italian visitor, and within 8 months the resort by TUI, LTU, Kuoni and others.
Pakistan and was working introducing him to the wonders was finished. The first guests In 1973, 3790 visitors arrived,
at the Ministry of of the Maldivian islands and its arrived on 3rd October 1972 and mainly from Italy, Sweden and
underwater treasures. Corbin the Maldives tourism industry Germany.
Agriculture in 1971 when a was enchanted, it was the was born.
chain of chance meetings paradise he had been searching As there were no experienced
brought together three for and he promised his new At the time tourism in hoteliers to run the resorts,
Maldivians and an Italian. Maldivian friends he would be Asia was flourishing with everything was done by the
back and would bring more neighboring countries Ceylon owners themselves and willing
They proceeded to Italians with him. (now Sri Lanka), Thailand and but equally untrained locals
carve out an industry Seychelles full of tourists and with MU working as both chef
that would catapult the Fuelled by youthful exuberance, had flourishing economies. and bartender for many years,
Maldivian archipelago trust, and excitement, the Consequently, the Maldives fuelled by an insatiable drive to
onto the world stage and four agreed on a plan to government and other local give people the experience of a
bring a group of Italians to MU Maniku and George Corbin businessmen were quick to lifetime.
attract a veritable who’s
24 www.hotelier.mv ISSUE 56 HOTELIER MALDIVES 2550 ON 50
CONNECTIVITY
The airport was not built to one would come, he decided to
cater for large aircraft so the upgrade Kurumba. He hired a
ever-increasing number of German architect, added a pool
flights bringing in both tourists and more restaurants, and re-
and supplies had to come via opened Kurumba in 1987, firmly
Sri Lanka. A new and improved establishing it as a star class
airport was constructed and property, a gamble that paid off. AVIATION SUPPLY
opened in 1981 with Condor Other properties followed suit AIR EXPRESS SERVICES & AIRLINE GENERAL
being the first to land, flying creating the basis for the luxury FREIGHT AGENCY SERVICES
direct from Frankfurt to the destination concept that the
Maldives. Landing a DC-10 Maldives is now synonymous
with 260 tourists on board, with.
effectively making the Maldives
a destination in its own right Initially the only islands
and opening up trade corridors developed were those that
to fresh ingredients that would could be reached by boat.
elevate the F&B offerings to a However, once the helicopter
high end product. transfers were introduced, Ari
Atoll became accessible and the
Promoting the destination advent of the seaplane in 1993 Hulhule Airport in 1972 SERVICES FOR CRUISE
was the next challenge so opened up other atolls to the BUNKERING LINES, SUPER YACHTS &
in 1983 the group journeyed tourist industry. NAVAL SHIPS
to Germany to see what the
ITB in Berlin could offer. Sri
Lanka already had a stand. So
the following year, in 1984 the
Maldives had its own stand
and the relationships with tour
operators grew.
In the early years the Maldives
was a cheap destination that INTER ATOLL INTERNATIONAL SHIP AGENCY SERVICES
attracted predominantly divers. FREIGHT & VESSEL HUSBANDING
TRANSPORTATION
Rates were $14 for a single room SERVICES
FORWARDING
in Villingili, $23 for Kurumba.
MU saw the folly of staying
at the low end of the market The first flight
and despite the tour operators operated to the
saying it was foolhardy and no Maldives by Condor
THE CHALLENGE OF GROWTH
and several more ready for people he met. LINER & RELOCATION,
development, the Maldives
FEEDER SERVICES REMOVAL & MICE
still has a lot more to offer. MU Maniku, Ahmed Naseem
However, as a country of only and Hussain Afeef pioneered
540,542 people and a negative an industry that defied the UN
population growth there is a report and created an economic
growing manpower vacuum, boost that would sustain the
add to this the increasing island nation through global
mobility of the working disturbances and natural
population and the increasing disasters, their logistical
opportunities to study abroad. uniqueness providing both
And it becomes evident challenges and solutions.
that being able to attract an MARINE OFFSHORE
expat workforce to bolster PROJECT LOGISTICS
Now in his 70’s, MU Maniku still LOGISTICS & SEA
the manpower requirements & LOGISTICS SUPPORT
has a finger firmly on the pulse
Kurumba Maldives is going to get even more MARSHALLING
of tourism. In addition to his
important. role as Chairman of MATI, he
What started as a cheap says, “each island has its own
is chairman of both Universal
destination for divers has character whether it be a local MU is keen to emphasize the Enterprises and Maldives
evolved into a high end, island or resort island and is importance of studying abroad Airports Company Limited
honeymoon and family therefore a destination in its and gaining exposure to other (MACL), plus has recently TOTAL TRANSPORT SOLUTIONS MALDIVES (PVT) LTD
destination. The explosion own right” so there is literally cultures as he credits his five
of the guest house industry something for everyone.
developed two resorts in Raa 05th Floor, Ma. Bodudhaharaage, Chandhanee Magu,
years studying in Pakistan at an Atoll.
from 2010 onwards opened American style campus as some Male’, Maldives.
the destination still further. Bed capacity has doubled of the best years of his life due +960 3011 888 / info@ttsgroup.mv
MU’s vision has always been “a year on year and with over 80 to the diversity and amount of
bed suitable for all”, and as he resorts on the drawing board
ttsgroupmaldives.com
26 www.hotelier.mv facebook.com/ttsgroupmaldives twitter.com/ttsgrpmaldives instagram.com/ttsgroupmaldives 27
linkedin.com/company/tts-group-mv
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