With a deep-rooted passion for hospitality and a dynamic background spanning guest services to operations, Arjay Abelador brings a wealth of experience and insight to his role as Sales & Marketing Manager at Makunudu Island. Drawn by the resort’s boutique charm and commitment to personalised service, Arjay plays a key role in positioning Makunudu as a tranquil haven in the Maldives.

In this exclusive interview, Arjay shares how his professional journey, marked by a curiosity to learn and a drive to create memorable guest experiences, has shaped his strategic vision. He highlights how tailored campaigns, digital storytelling, and a keen understanding of niche audiences help distinguish Makunudu Island amid a competitive market, focusing on its serene setting, vibrant marine life, and bespoke hospitality. Through tailored campaigns, digital storytelling, and a keen understanding of niche audiences, Arjay ensures that the island’s unique offerings shine through, attracting discerning travellers who value peace, privacy, and natural beauty.

Having built a successful career in different roles within the hospitality industry, what drew you to the Sales and Marketing Manager role at Makunudu Island, and how has your professional journey led you to this position?

I have always been passionate about the hospitality industry, and my curiosity to learn new skills and meet new people has been the driving force behind my career. I was drawn to the Sales and Marketing Manager role at Makunudu Island because of the opportunity to work at a boutique resort that values individuality, personalisation, and creating unique guest experiences. Before this role, I had the privilege of working in various aspects of hospitality, including guest services and operations, which provided me with a holistic view of the business. Over the years, I developed a strong interest in sales and marketing because I enjoy the challenge of positioning a brand and building strong relationships with customers. What excites me most about Makunudu Island is its unique concept, a secluded paradise that promises both tranquillity and exclusivity. It’s a perfect fit for my expertise, and the island’s focus on natural beauty aligns with my values in creating memorable, authentic experiences for guests.

With your extensive background in the tourism industry, what unique strategies do you implement to market Makunudu Island as a boutique resort amidst the competition in the Maldives?

At Makunudu Island, we focus on highlighting the resort’s unique selling points (USPs), which include its serene atmosphere, personalised service, and untouched natural beauty. Unlike large luxury resorts, we offer a more intimate experience, which appeals to travellers looking for exclusivity. Our marketing strategy revolves around emphasising the exceptional services we provide, from tailored arrivals to the personalised attention guests receive throughout their stay. We also invest in showcasing the island’s beautiful house reef, which is a key attraction for nature-loving guests. Social media campaigns, influencer partnerships, and testimonials from satisfied guests play an important role in telling our story. Additionally, we use targeted marketing to reach the audience who appreciate and seek out the boutique experience we offer, focusing on those who prefer more intimate, nature-driven experiences over mass tourism.

What would you say are the top three experiences at Makunudu Island that guests don’t want to miss, and how do you highlight these in your marketing efforts?

At Makunudu Island, we believe in offering experiences that immerse our guests in the tranquillity of nature, making their stay truly memorable. One of the top highlights is the island’s uniqueness; with its untouched beauty, lush greenery, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, it offers an unparalleled sense of peace. Another standout is the vibrant house reef, teeming with marine life and providing world-class snorkelling and diving opportunities just steps from each villa. Guests can also savour magnificent sunset views and intimate private dining right on the beach, perfect for a romantic and personal escape. We showcase these experiences in our marketing through stunning social media visuals, guest testimonials, and stories that emphasise the connection between our guests and the island’s natural beauty, alongside targeted content like blog posts and newsletters. 

Given Makunudu Island’s unique offering in the Maldives, how do you position the resort in a way that resonates with the target audience, particularly when competing against well-established luxury resorts?

As a boutique resort, our strategy for competing with well-established luxury resorts is to highlight what truly sets us apart: an intimate and personalised experience. Unlike larger luxury properties, we cater to a discerning audience that values exclusivity and peaceful seclusion. We emphasise our limited inventory, explaining that our smaller size enables us to provide bespoke services not typically available at bigger resorts. By targeting markets that appreciate authentic, nature-based experiences, such as eco-conscious travellers and those seeking private retreats, we distinguish ourselves from the competition. We position Makunudu Island as a sanctuary for those who want to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature, offering them an escape that is tailored to their personal preferences.

What key challenges have you faced managing sales and marketing for Makunudu Island in the competitive Maldives tourism market, and how have you overcome them?

One of the main challenges I have faced is the resort’s limited inventory, which restricts the number and type of guests we can accommodate. This means we must be strategic in attracting those who truly appreciate our concept. However, this also allows us to deliver a highly personalised experience to each guest, ensuring their stay is exceptional and memorable. We focus our marketing efforts on the European market, as they are particularly drawn to natural, preserved environments and seek authentic, eco-friendly travel experiences. By targeting this audience, we attract guests who value the island’s tranquillity and authenticity, helping us maintain exclusivity and quality. 

Makunudu Island is known for its tranquility and exclusivity. How do you envision expanding its appeal without compromising the boutique, intimate experience that makes the resort so unique?

As we look toward expanding the appeal of Makunudu Island, our goal is to grow while preserving the core values that make us unique. Our approach to expansion is centred on maintaining the resort’s intimate and exclusive atmosphere by introducing new offerings that enhance the guest experience without compromising it. For example, we may introduce more personalised services such as private excursions, customised wellness programs, or exclusive dining experiences that continue to offer a sense of privacy and individuality. We are also exploring ways to strengthen our digital presence, making it easier for guests to connect with us and discover what we offer. We will continue to evolve thoughtfully, ensuring the island’s charm and identity are never compromised.