Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Dhawa Ihuru appoint Elias Pertoft as General Manager

Banyan Tree Group has announced the appointment of Elias Pertoft as General Manager of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru, effective 8 June 2025.

Elias brings with him over 17 years of distinguished leadership in luxury hospitality, with a particular focus on remote island resorts and ultra-high-end guest experiences. His dedication, expertise, and commitment to excellence have seen him excel at some of the world’s most prestigious resorts, including Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island, Soneva Kiri Thailand, and Necker Island (British Virgin Islands).

Most recently, Elias led the successful pre-opening and launch of Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island, hiring and training a multicultural team of 180 from 40 nationalities. Under his guidance, the resort achieved 100% guest satisfaction and secured its place as the first and only property in the Seychelles to earn Forbes Five-Star recognition.

His expertise in sustainability, island logistics, and curating distinctive experiences – such as destination dining and conservation-focused activities – aligns seamlessly with Banyan Group’s ethos of regenerative tourism.

In his new role, Elias will oversee all operational aspects of Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru and Dhawa Ihuru, with a focus on enriching guest experiences and fostering sustainable growth with the fresh perspectives and inspiring leadership.

Experience the Original Maldives in barefoot eco-luxury at Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, a secluded tropical sanctuary for the senses in North Malé Atoll, just 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport. Its 48 newly refurbished all-pool villas blend Maldivian heritage with sustainable design. At the heart of its sustainability commitment, the Marine Lab has been a pioneer of ocean stewardship since 2004. Savour a Dine-Around gourmet experience across three exceptional restaurants: Sangu Garden, Saffron, award-winning Madi Hiyaa, elevated by the beachfront Naiboli bar. Vabbinfaru is also home to the award-winning Banyan Tree Spa and offers the exclusive Twin-Island experience at sister property Dhawa Ihuru.

At Dhawa Ihuru, unwind in style at an all-inclusive resort in the Maldives. Set on North Malé Atoll, just a swift 25 minutes complimentary speedboat ride from Velana International Airport, Dhawa Ihuru is a distinct island retreat of its own, where abundant nature, local culture and warm hospitality meet with stylish comfort and modern design, ideal for the new generation of independent travellers.