Universal Resorts rebrands as VERSA, launches NIVA as cornerstone of global strategy
Universal Enterprises, parent company of Universal Resorts, which pioneered Maldivian hospitality over 50 years ago, on Monday announced the rebranding of its hotel management arm to VERSA Hospitality and simultaneously launched its new hospitality lifestyle brand, NIVA Hotels & Resorts. This strategic shift transforms the independent family business from a respected and largely B2B-focused resort […]
Dhigali Maldives appoints Julien Marinozzi as Director of Food & Beverage
Dhigali Maldives has announced the appointment of Julien Marinozzi as its new Director of Food & Beverage. With over 20 years of global experience in hotels and fine dining establishments, Julien brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and leadership to the island. Julien’s impressive career spans multiple renowned brands and destinations. Most recently, he held […]
MATI opens Book of Condolence for Mohamed Umar Maniku
The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) has announced the opening of a Book of Condolence in memory of the late Mohamed Umar Maniku (MU Maniku), a pioneer and visionary of the Maldivian tourism industry. The Book of Condolence will be available for signing from Sunday, 7 September 2025, until Sunday, 14 September 2025 (excluding […]
Mohamed Umar Maniku: Architect of Maldivian tourism
On 30th August 2025, the Maldives bid farewell to one of its greatest nation-builders – Mohamed Umar “M.U.” Maniku. Widely regarded as the father of Maldivian tourism, his passing marks the end of an era that began more than half a century ago, when a group of visionaries transformed a scattering of islands into one […]
Maldives tourism pioneer MU Maniku dies
Mohamed Umar Maniku (MU Maniku), a key figure in the establishment and growth of the Maldives tourism industry, has died in Singapore. He passed away on Saturday while in intensive care at Mount Elizabeth Hospital, where he had been receiving medical treatment for about a month. In a statement issued on Saturday, Universal Enterprises announced: […]
Universal Foundation opens fully-funded scholarships in hospitality, health sectors
The Universal Foundation has announced a series of fully funded scholarships for Maldivian citizens, aimed at enhancing the nation’s human resource capacity in both the hospitality and healthcare sectors. The initiative is part of the Foundation’s ongoing efforts to contribute to national development by investing in education and skills training. The scholarship programme includes 37 […]
Universal Resorts achieves triple victory at World Travel Awards 2024
Universal Resorts has announced that three of its eight properties have secured top honours at the prestigious World Travel Awards 2024, cementing their status as pioneers in international travel and innovation. This year’s 31st edition of the awards – renowned as the travel industry’s highest accolade – was hosted on Thursday 24 November at a […]
Universal Resorts celebrates triple win in Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2024
Universal Resorts has announced that three of its eight unique resorts have been recognised in the esteemed Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards 2024, securing top spots in the “World’s Best Resorts – Indian Ocean” category. The 27th edition of these prestigious awards features Huvafen Fushi, Milaidhoo, and Baros as favourites among discerning travellers worldwide, […]
Milaidhoo Maldives appoints Paul van Frank as General Manager
Milaidhoo Maldives has announced the appointment of Paul van Frank as its new General Manager. With over three decades of distinguished experience in luxury hospitality, Paul brings a wealth of expertise in boutique resort management and a proven track record of success in remote and prestigious destinations worldwide. Paul’s impressive career in hospitality includes leadership […]
Universal Resorts Maldives joins exclusive Hilton and Small Luxury Hotels of the World Partnership
Universal Resorts, comprising Milaidhoo, Baros, Velassaru, and Huvafen Fushi resorts, has announced its inclusion in the prestigious partnership between Hilton and Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH). Starting today, these four Universal Resort properties will be available to Hilton Honors members and guests on all Hilton direct booking channels, including Hilton.com and the Hilton […]
MU Maniku says engaging Maldivians in tourism key to progress
Mohamed Umar Maniku, a pioneering figure in the Maldives tourism industry and Chairman of Universal, emphasised the significance of involving Maldivians in the tourism sector during a recent event. Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the fourth batch of the Universal Foundation and Villa College Discover Hospitality programme, where certificates were presented to the fifth […]
Universal Foundation launches fifth batch of Discover Hospitality programme
Universal Foundation and Villa College have marked a significant milestone with the successful conclusion of the fourth batch of the Discover Hospitality programme, followed by the commencement of the fifth batch. This collaborative effort is aimed at providing comprehensive training for Maldivians seeking opportunities in the tourism industry. During a ceremony held at the Manhattan […]
