Mohamed Jinan’s hospitality career spans more than two decades, shaped by discipline, teamwork, and a sincere dedication to guest care. Beginning his journey in 2000 in entry-level roles, he developed a deep respect for operational teams and the guest experience. His hands-on, people-focused approach continues to guide him today, empowering colleagues and ensuring that every guest feels warmly cared for throughout their stay.

Having served Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu in multiple roles, including Front Office Manager and Operations Manager, Jinan’s return as Resort Manager reflects his long-standing bond with the island. Deeply aligned with the resort’s barefoot philosophy and environmental values, he now oversees service consistency, personalisation, and sustainability initiatives within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. In this interview, he shares his journey, leadership perspective, and vision for elevating Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu while preserving the natural beauty that defines it.

You began your hospitality journey in 2000. How did your early experiences influence your management style today?

Beginning my career in entry-level positions taught me the value of discipline, guest care, responsibility, and the importance of teamwork. Those formative years shaped my leadership approach to be hands-on, human-focused, and approachable. I believe every colleague contributes a vital role in delivering guest satisfaction, so I focus on empowering teams, leading by example, and maintaining strong respect for operational roles.

After working across several acclaimed Maldivian resorts, what drew you back to Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu as Resort Manager?

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu has always felt like home to me. Over the years, I have grown through multiple roles as Front Office Manager to Operations Manager, and returning as Resort Manager was a natural continuation of that journey. The island’s authenticity, environmental commitment, and unique location in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve deeply resonate with my own values. I have a genuine passion for elevating this iconic property while preserving the natural beauty that defines it.

In your current role, how do you ensure consistency in delivering high-quality guest experiences across all departments?

Consistency comes from strong processes combined with personal accountability. We deliver this through regular service training and coaching, daily briefings for full alignment, open cross-functional communication, and active review of guest feedback and experience touchpoints. I believe consistency is not just about following the standard operating procedures; it is about every team member taking pride in creating joyful, seamless, and unforgettable stays.

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is known for its natural beauty and eco-conscious ethos. How do you maintain its unique charm while meeting modern guest expectations?

Our philosophy is nature-inspired, barefoot-bliss luxury. With just 98 villas featuring traditional Maldivian design, we preserve the island’s authentic soul rather than altering it. Sustainability lies at the heart of our identity, from plastic-free initiatives to coral and reef conservation and our island’s turtle rehabilitation programmes. At the same time, we continuously refine comfort, culinary offerings, recreational activities, and personalised services, ensuring guests enjoy modern conveniences without sacrificing the island’s natural elegance.

With less than 100 villas at the property, how do you personalise guest experiences on such scale?

Our intimate size is one of our greatest strengths. It enables us to learn guest preferences before arrival, create tailored dining and celebration moments, design personalised nature and marine experiences, especially snorkelling within the Biosphere Reserve, and, most importantly, offer warm, genuine interactions where every guest feels recognised. Personalisation for us is not a feature; it is the heart of our service culture.

How do you see the hospitality landscape evolving in the Maldives, especially in the luxury eco-resort segment?

I believe the hospitality landscape in the Maldives is evolving towards purpose-driven travel, where guests seek more than beauty. They seek meaning. Today’s travellers are drawn to experiences that connect them deeply with nature, wellness, community, and sustainability. They want to leave with stories that matter, not just memories.

At Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, this philosophy is at the heart of what we do. Conservation and culture are woven into every guest journey, from supporting local artisans to protecting marine life. Resorts like ours are paving the way for a new era of hospitality, one that honours the environment, uplifts communities, and nurtures the spirit of discovery.

As the Resort Manager, how do you personally engage with guests on the island to gather feedback and ensure their stay is memorable?

I make guest engagement a part of my everyday rhythm, greeting arrivals with a smile, joining lunch or dinner walks, and connecting with visitors at meaningful moments throughout their stay. These encounters allow me to truly understand their expectations and create experiences that resonate. I also keep a close eye on feedback, following up personally whenever needed, because when guests feel genuinely heard and valued, their stay becomes unforgettable.