Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk closed 2022 with a lot to be proud of. Over the past 12 months, the hotel continued supporting the UAE food bank with a focus on repurposing surplus food and avoiding waste, which has seen it produce over 11,000 meals, an initiative it will continue in 2023.
Russell Impiazzi, executive chef at the hotel, commented: “Every year is an exciting year in our incredibly fast-moving hospitality world. The whole industry should be proud of seeing Dubai grow on the world’s culinary stage. It will only get bigger and stronger. Some amazing new openings are coming up, which I’m looking forward to experiencing, not only as a chef but also as a guest going to these great restaurants and bars and having some great nights out.”
Sofitel Dubai The Obelisk was also recognised in the first Gault&Millau UAE guide. The hotel’s outlets and team were shortlisted for four awards, with both Brasserie Boulud and Taiko being listed in the guide. Bijou Patisserie continued to shine beyond a lobby lounge with its afternoon tea offering, which won the Time Out Dubai Award.
There was also the ‘Veg Pledge’, which saw the hotel host 100 school children with their parents joining in, encouraging families to cook together and showing the little ones just how great vegetables can be.
Moreover, for Breast Cancer Awareness month, the hotel’s chefs donned their pink aprons to raise awareness and encourage donations for the Pink Caravan.
JA Manafaru Maldives is pleased to announce that it has once again received the respected Worldwide Kids (WK) Accreditation for the second consecutive year, highlighting its commitment to providing a family-friendly experience. This independent seal of excellence recognises resorts that uphold the highest international standards in childcare training, health and safety, and consistently enhance the experience for families and young guests.
Photo credits: JA Manafaru Maldives
Nestled in the heart of this idyllic all-natural island paradise, JA Manafaru offers a wealth of dedicated facilities for families. The resort's CoolZone play area, complete with a separate family pool, Recreation Pavilion, and the ChillZone indoor games room, provide young guests with the perfect space to play and explore, all while their parents enjoy some well-deserved relaxation. With this thoughtful offering, the resort ensures that both families and couples can enjoy the best of both worlds – a serene escape and a safe, fun-filled environment for children.
JA Manafaru's childcare facilities have successfully passed the rigorous WK audit, underscoring the resort's commitment to a safe and nurturing environment for its younger guests. The resort's dedicated childcare team has undergone extensive accredited training by Worldwide Kids, equipping them with the specialised knowledge and skills to provide exceptional care. Parents can feel confident that their children are in good hands while they enjoy the resort's spa and dining experiences.
Photo credits: JA Manafaru Maldives
"I am incredibly proud of my team for receiving this recognition for two consecutive years. It underscores our commitment to guest safety, particularly for our young visitors. Our thorough health and safety audit, combined with rigorous training, ensures we adhere to the highest international standards. This accreditation not only highlights our dedication to safeguarding our guests but also reinforces our mission to create memorable experiences for families during their stay,” says Rita Gupta, Director of Spa & Recreation.
Jason Kruse, General Manager of JA Manafaru Maldives, says, "We are thrilled to receive the Worldwide Kids accreditation for the second time, as it reflects our continued commitment to providing a memorable experience for our youngest guests. The range of activities we offer allows families to enjoy the beauty of the Maldives together, while parents can relax, knowing their children are being well cared for."
The Worldwide Kids Accreditation reinforces JA Manafaru's dedication to offering not just a luxurious retreat for families, but a resort that prioritises the well-being and enjoyment of young guests. This prestigious recognition highlights the resort's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of childcare and ensuring that all guests – whether young or old – enjoy a memorable, worry-free stay.
With this accolade, JA Manafaru Maldives continues to stand out as one of the Maldives' top resorts, offering families and holidaymakers exceptional service and unforgettable experiences.
For more information, visit our website.
As the Lunar New Year approaches, Angsana Velavaru invites guests to join in celebration of the Year of the Snake with a curated two-day experience, blending tradition, adventure, and festive spirit. On January 28-29, the resort will host a series of unique activities and exclusive culinary experiences to celebrate the spirit of the season while enjoying the resort’s vibrant atmosphere.
Photo credits: Angsana Velavaru
A Feast of Senses
On the eve of the Lunar New Year, guests are invited to take part in a hands-on Dumpling Workshop at Kaani Restaurant. This is followed by an exquisite Flavours of Asia and Chinese Feast Buffet, offering a selection of regional delicacies, thoughtfully prepared for the occasion. The festivities continue with the much-anticipated Chunwan New Year’s Eve Gala, an evening of captivating entertainment that marks the beginning of the new year with unforgettable flair.
Adventure Awaits
For those seeking adventure, the resort offers a range diving and snorkelling activities, catering for both experts and beginners. Guest can explore the vibrant house reef while taking part in the Citizen Science Snorkelling experience – an opportunity to contribute to ocean conservation, making their holiday not only a memorable one but also impactful. As the sun sets, the resort comes alive with a Caribbean themed DJ party, where the rhythm of the islands set the mood for an energetic night. Guests can also enjoy variety of cocktail stations, offering an eclectic selection of drinks for every taste and elevate the evening.
For families, there no shortage of engaging activities, from friendly Beach Volleyball and invigorating Water Aerobics to a heartwarming Love Bird Feeding experience, ensuring a fun and memorable moments for all ages.
The Lux Collective’s award-winning resort - LUX* South Ari Atoll is excited to announce a partnership with The Clay Studio Maldives to bring a pottery pop-up to its Junk Art Studio, starting 20 December 2024. This collaboration introduces a hands-on creative activity to the resort’s vibrant programming, providing guests of all ages with a chance to embrace their artistic side while supporting a local Maldivian business.
Photo credits: LUX* South Ari Atoll
The pottery experience includes a diverse schedule of workshops such as wheel-throwing, hand building, and the popular “Paint a Pot” sessions. Tailored options for children and private sessions for couples and families are also available. Each class is led by skilled artisans and designed to inspire creativity while offering an engaging activity for participants.
John Rogers, General Manager of LUX* South Ari Atoll, shared his enthusiasm for the initiative: "We are delighted to bring this hands-on pottery experience to our guests, in collaboration with The Clay Studio Maldives. As a resort that celebrates creativity and connection, this partnership allows families to create meaningful memories while supporting local artisans."
Photo credits: LUX* South Ari Atoll
The launch coincides with the resort’s festive celebrations, which include a variety of traditions, dining experiences and activities designed to create an unforgettable holiday experience. This announcement follows the resort’s recent accolade as "Best for Families" at the Condé Nast Johansens Awards For Excellence 2025, underscoring its reputation as a leading family-friendly destination.
For resort activities and pottery workshops, please visit Festive Programme. To secure the relaxing holiday bookings, please visit www.luxresorts.com, contact stay@luxmaldivesresort.com, or call +960 668 0901.