Visit Maldives has hosted the much-anticipated “Maldivian Evening 2025” at the Theatre of Digital Art (TODA) in Dubai, on the sidelines of ATM 2025. The event offered a multi-sensory journey showcasing the Maldives’ rich culture, heritage, gastronomy, and luxury tourism experiences.
The evening began with a vibrant Maldivian-themed red carpet reception and featured a dynamic range of activities, including the premiere of “Dhivehi Dreams”, live cultural performances, storytelling sessions featuring Maldivian folklore such as “Dhonhiyala and Alifulhu” and “Koimala”, a fashion show highlighting traditional attire with a modern twist, traditional gastronomy experiences, multiple raffle draws, a live art performance by renowned artist Kurahaa Rappe during “Synergy of Art and Sound”, and a high-energy musical performance by Skyrock, a beloved Maldivian band. The event also featured interactive content zones, including a 360° immersive experience, a Virtual Reality room as well as an interactive room displaying traditional craftsmanship.
Delivering his address, Ibrahim Shiuree, CEO & MD of Visit Maldives, highlighted several strategic achievements that reflect the organisation’s forward momentum, stating that “today’s signing of MOUs with Emirates and Qatar Airways is another key step forward, and we are excited about the new opportunities this will open for us.”
He also emphasised the importance of regional and global partnerships, noting, “In addition, we have launched major joint campaigns with leading tour operators such as DNATA in the Middle East, Travel Bank in the UK, TUI across the German-speaking markets, Poland, and the Czech Republic, and MakeMyTrip in India. Together, these partners currently bring over 50,000 visitors annually — and with our support, we aim to grow this even further.”
Reflecting on innovative marketing strategies, Shiuree further added, “We also made a bold move by branding 200 taxis during ITB and ATM events — an initiative that has been a huge success. You will notice MMPRC-branded taxis around ATM.”
H.E. Thoriq Ibrahim, Minister of Tourism and Environment, also addressed the gathering, underscoring the longstanding partnership between the Maldives and the UAE, stating, “The UAE has always been a very important travel partner to the Maldives, and this event serves to further and underscore the importance we place on our mutual growth and collaboration with this wonderful region.”
He further highlighted that the true essence of the Maldives lies beyond its natural beauty, saying, “Over the years, the Maldives has welcomed millions of tourists and has become a dream destination for many more. It is easy to assume that our natural beauty is the only feature of attraction — but there is more to the Maldives than the sun, sand, and sea. The true Maldivian experience begins and ends with our people.”
Throughout the evening, guests immersed themselves in the Maldives’ vibrant culture through food, music, live art, folklore, and storytelling, offering an authentic glimpse into the sunny side of life.
