MTA 2016 | GALA Night Booklet

WELCOME Today we celebrate the 5th Anniversary of the Maldives Travel Awards, the top recognition in the Maldives for tourism industry. To mark this milestone, we are delighted to have rebranded the award with a redesigned trophy which serves as a simple and sleek visualization of what the Maldives Travel Award represents.

The branding as a whole is inspired by the vibrant colours of Maldives and the creativity and beauty of our tourism industry.

The Gala Night for Maldives Travel Awards is the annual premier travel event bringing together the leading hoteliers and service providers in the industry for an evening of celebration.

This year, we have a record number of more than 240 nominations from various categories.

The event is broadcasted live on national television, covered extensively on other local and international media and is viewed across the nation on traditional and online platforms.

On this wonderful occasion, I would like to thank the Board and Management of MATATO for entrusting Think Associates to organize this prestigious event.

We acknowledge with great appreciation the immense effort and support given by each and every individual involved in this year’s Travel Awards; from our sponsors and partners to our judges and nominees, who contributed to showcase what the Maldives tourism industry truly has to offer.

Each and every member of our team has given their very best to ensure that this event is a highlight that will be carried forward until the next Travel Awards. We will continue our work with current and prospective partners to keep alive the inspiration of the Award for years to come.

I would like to congratulate the winners and wish you all a very pleasant and exquisite evening.

ADHEEL ISMAIL CEO OF THINK ADVERTISING

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PRESIDENT OF MATATO This year being the 5th consecutive year of the Maldives Travel Awards, it would be only fair to go back quickly highlighting our road so far. In 2012, we had the very first edition of Maldives Travel Awards hosted in the alluring island of Paradise Island Resort. Then in 2013, we took the awards to the magnificent Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort.

Then in 2014, the awards were hosted in one of the birth places of Tourism in Maldives, Kurumba Maldives. Then last year 2015, we split our Awards event into two gala nights. Taking one international to Dubai at the vibrant hotel of Dusit Thani Dubai. Then the grand finale last year at Coco Bodu Hithi. Thus we are excited to bring this awards back to Olhuveli and we are very grateful to Honourable Ahmed Siyam for making this possible.

It cannot be disputed that this very travel awards is without a doubt a success, today it is a recognition used by majority of Maldivian resorts in their marketing collaterals, even annual reports, it’s a recognition accepted internationally, and recently we were surprised to see in a report by Lexis Nexis, a global leading consultancy firm, which showed in one of their reports that this year in month of September and October - our travel awards website travelawards.mv was among the top 10 shared domains globally relating to Maldives on the Internet thus this is remarkable progress we have made. And this year we added to this by entering a service agreement with KPMG a global leading audit firm to help us tally the judging and selection thus taking the credibility of this awards to an all-time high. This year we also have the highest number of nominations in terms of categories at over 200 nominees and

ABDULLA GHIYAS PRESIDENT OF MATATO

we also broke record in terms of online and SMS voting as well.

This awards is also promoted at all the travel trade shows MATATO participates additional to ones the destination does and this year MATATO paved the way for seven travel trade shows; from India to Russia to Malaysia to Indonesia to Saudi Arabia.

This year we also had our very first travel conference coinciding with these awards just yesterday at Bandos Island Resort and we had guest speakers from PATA, CNN, TTG Asia and Thammasat University.

We hope this journey will take us further, and we thank all the nominees for believing in us and MATATO strives forward stronger for 2017.

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DEAR GUESTS Let me share with you the importance of hosting Maldives Travel Awards at Olhuveli Beach and Spa Resort: 40 minutes from Male - is a scenic boat trip to start your experience with.

Here it feels like being in the epicentre of the Maldives Travel Treasures surrounded by pure water and unique marine life This visual sensation and luxury of space on our dream island help Olhuveli to be “The Chosen one” for a number of World important events! When MATATO and Think advertising joined hands, we rushed to support this talented and inspiring team, to make a successful event together.

AHMED SHIYAM MOHAMED CHAIRMAN OF SUN SIYAM GROUP

Today, Maldives Travel Awards help to recognize best achievements in our industry; share success with the most charismatic Tourism Leaders of the country! Unite them in a single force of the national development ! Future of Maldives Travel Awards seems immense, along with the future of Incoming Tourism in Maldives. We say YES to those new flights and resorts, YES to popularity of our beautiful country! And we don’t forget saying YES to protection of our environment and care that we dedicate to preserve Maldives for the future generations!

So here we are - for an exceptional event! I’m thrilled to find out who the winners are. Best of the best. Let’s witness together recognition of passion and professionalism and spread our congratulations to all participants and team behind the scene.

Enjoy the moment! I will be happy to see your smiles at Olhuveli Beach and Spa Resort.

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MALDIVES TRAVEL AWARDS THE POWER OF RECOGNITION

Hard work that goes unappreciated and unrecognised is the worst anyone could ever face – and when it happens to the very deserving resorts in the hospitality industry, it does not simply hurt a person or a physical body; it hurts an entire business and everyone associated with it. But those in the hospitality industry of the Maldives would not be able to say such a thing – for the Maldives Travel Awards

by MATATO does an exceptional job at recognizing the talent and the innovation of our resorts.

The (MATATO) Maldives Travel Awards is a recognised label initiated with the idea of MATATO providing the tourism sector of Maldives with recognition for their facilities and service excellence provided to guests. Awards are presented to nominees in different categories on various sector and standard basis.

The Maldives Travel Awards aim to encourage & raise service standards within the Maldivian Tourism industry.

MATATO

MALDIVES ASSOCIATION FOR TRAVEL AGENTS AND TOUR OPERATORS

Found in 2006 through the passion of a group of enthusiastic tour operators, MATATO has today become a household name when it comes to the hospitality industry in the Maldives – the economy of which is driven mainly by the tourism sector. Representing over 50 travel agents and tour operators, MATATO aims for the Maldives to go forward in the industry through unity.

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Maldives Finder – Official Travel Publication

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Maldives Travel Awards – Top travel awards in Maldives

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Maldives Travel Conference – International conference by MATATO

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Travel Agents Forum – Annual event for hoteliers

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Trainings & Workshops

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Exhibitions & Road shows

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MATATO HOW IT ALL BEGAN

The idea of an active association in the industry had been a vision of a lot of Maldivians, specially who are working in the travel industry. In 2006, an association was established by a group of enthusiastic Maldivian Travel Agents who were at the helm of shaping the tourism industry of Maldives as we see it today. The association in the name of MATATO ( Maldives Association for Travel Agents & Tour Operators ) continues to live up to its mission of “taking the travel and tourism industry of the Maldives forward through unity, empowerment and co-operation�.

After 10 years at the forefront of the Maldivian Tourism Industry, today, MATATO is a household name, with global recognition, and a collection of travel products ranging from in-house publications, trainings, and international forums to Maldives Travel Awards.

THINK ADVERTISING YOUR HOST Formed in 2005, Think Advertising brings together local talent that combine knowledge, creativity and organizational strength to create and execute advertising and marketing campaigns nationwide. There is no substitute for local knowledge and we know the market like no other.

Combine that with the high standards we maintain, and it is no wonder we are seen as the leaders in our business. We are always pushing our boundaries and expanding our horizons to serve you more!

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IBRAHIM NASIR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (INIA) IBRAHIM NASIR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT MALDIVES – TRAVEL AWARDS DEDICATED SPONSOR FOR FIVE YEARS Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (INIA) is all set for the future; the Maldivian government has planned an ambitious project to revolutionize INIA into a world class airport. Development plans for the upcoming years include a passenger terminal, runway, fuel farm, fuel hydrant system, cargo terminal and a new apron.

Apart from these, some projects have already been completed, notably the development of the north apron in December 2015 and runway resurfacing in March 2016.

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NEW INTERNATIONAL PASSENGER TERMINAL The new international passenger terminal building will have an increased built-up area of more than 90,000 square meters, accommodating up to 7.5 million international passengers.

Further developments include aero boarding bridges, state-of-the-art baggage handling systems and will host a range of F&B outlets as well as spaces for retail, lounges and other services.

NEW RUNWAY The new Code-F runway with 3400 meters in length and 60 meters in width will be constructed 190 meters offset from the existing runway. As a result, INIA will be able to accommodate A380 Aircraft, which is the largest in commercial operations today.

Upon completion, Instrument Landing Systems will be installed on both sides of the runway with ICAO category 1 Approach lights leading to shorter turnaround time

NEW FUEL FARM & FUEL HYDRANT SYSTEM

NEW APRON FOR AIRCRAFT PARKING

Located away from the operations area at the north west of INIA the new fuel storage will be approximately 37,000m2, which is roughly 3 times the size of the current fuel farm.

Currently, the airport islands North West apron is operational and has the capacity for 4 wide body aircraft or 8 narrow-body aircraft. In the future with the expansion of the main apron our capacity will grow up to 12 wide body stands.

With this development our fuel farm will host 45 million litres of Jet A1 fuel, 1 million litres of Diesel and 0.1 million litres of petrol.

Along with new fuel storage expansion, there will be fuel hydrant systems installed at INIA improving safety and shortening service time for the airlines.

Furthermore, the new apron configuration will have aero bridges and parking provision for Code-F type aircraft such as A380, which is the largest in commercial operations today. Further expansion of the apron to the east side is scheduled to be underway and it will have additional stands for 4 wide-body aircraft plus 8 narrow body aircraft.

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YOUR HOST FOR THE NIGHT Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort, nestled amid lush tropical vegetation and shaded by graceful palms is encircled by stretches of powdery sandy beach and a vast crystal clear lagoon. A truly breathtaking island with plenty of secluded sandbanks, beautifully designed villas over turquoise waters, Olhuveli Beach and Spa fuses modern flair with traditional architecture.

Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort has been revealed as the location of the Maldives Travel Awards 2016. The resort is famed for its beautiful beaches and serene atmosphere. It will truly be the perfect setting for the biggest travel Industry Event in the Maldives.

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SHINING THE SUN ON SUN SIYAM RESORTS AN IDEA GROWN INTO PERFECTION Sun Siyam Resorts is a collection of hotel & resorts by Mr Ahmed Siyam Mohamed – an initiative to redefine the luxury hospitality experience one could revel in the Maldives.

Sun Siyam Resorts has an esteemed portfolio of boutique luxury resorts operating in the Maldives, including The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi, Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort and

Sun Aqua Vilu Reef Maldives. Properties in Sri Lanka include the Sun Aqua Pasikudah and the forthcoming The Sun Siyam Kalpitiya.

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THE SUN SIYAM IRU FUSHI RESORT The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives is the flagship property within the group. Located a 45-minute scenic seaplane ride from Male’ in the unspoilt Noonu Atoll and set within 52 acres of white sands and exotic flora, guests are immersed in a timeless culture. From the intuitive detail and personalised service that creates the most beautiful moments, to the sublime ambience that permeates each unforgettable taste, touch and experience.

OLHUVELI BEACH & SPA RESORT Since its brand launch in 2014 as The Sun Siyam, it has gained international recognition across the globe. Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort Located on the tip of South Male’ Atoll, 34km from Ibrahim Nasir International Airport is the idyllic Olhuveli Beach & Spa Resort, famed for its beautiful beaches and abundant sandbanks.

The resort is reached by a picturesque 45-minute speedboat journey. The vast crystal clear lagoon perfect for the active water sports enthusiasts and the endless stretches of sandbanks so picture perfect. This is the ideal beach destination for that renewal of vows ceremony on the beach that everyone dreams about. Under the clearest of the skies take a cruise to see the dolphins and enjoy the hues of the sunsets.

SUN AQUA VILU REEF The Maldivian addition of Sun Aqua came in late 2015, with the branding of Vilu Reef. This stunning beautiful bite-sized gem found in the heart of the South Nilandhe Atoll is reached by a 35-minute seaplane ride from the airport. Sun Aqua Vilu Reef offers indulgent laid back luxury surrounded by immense natural beauty.

SUN AQUA PASIKUDAH Sun Aqua Pasikudah is a true showcase of the world renowned Maldivian hospitality fused with the Sri Lankan charm. In a country where there is so much of history and culture to explore, the Sri Lankan property sits in the heart of everything. Perched on the waterfront, the luxurious Sun Aqua Pasikudah makes the most of its sun-drenched setting with boutique-designed fivestar suites, gourmet dining, a fully stocked cellar of Old and New World wines, and excursions through jungles, mountains and underwater terrains.

A scenic journey from Colombo and the International Airport, this exclusive address is one of the island’s most serene coastal getaways.

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SPONSORS AND PARTNERS

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EVENT BOOKLET | MALDIVES TRAVEL AWARDS 2016

MALDIVES TRAVEL CONFERENCE THE FIRST IN MALDIVES

MATATO is preparing for the inauguration of the first edition of Maldives Travel Conference, on 19th November 2016 at Bandos Island Resort. With the purpose of establishing an international platform in the Maldives as well as bringing together forefront international travel institutions, entrepreneurs and executives under one roof, to have a leading and effective dialogue, about opportunities, challenges and innovations in the travel industry.

Some of the speakers of the conference will include Dr. Mario Hardy, CEO of PATA, MS. Sonali Chatterjee from CNN as well as Mr. Abdulla Giyas, President of MATATO. They will be speaking in different categories at the conference and will provide a wide range of information based on their expertise and experience.

MATATO is inviting an insightful line up of speakers for the conference, representing some of the leading executives and pioneers local and international tourism community. The conference will be attended by 150 travel and media personnel.

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Importance of Destination marketing

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Luxury travel trends in Maldives context

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Evolving Maldives tourism product

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Tourism & Perception

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EVENT BOOKLET | MALDIVES TRAVEL AWARDS 2016

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NEW CATEGORIES The New Categories Maldives Travel Awards unveiled 05 new categories this year in an event held at Hotel Jen Male’ Maldives. The new categories had been added after much of discussions among the professionals in the industry, the judges followed by requests from the industry. It had been comprehensively covered in all the sectors with special emphasis on areas which needs more focus within the industry while considering the emerging local market and travel trends. The new categories follows.

LEADING HUMAN RESOURCE MANAGEMENT LEADING GUEST HOUSE ISLAND LEADING F&B OUTLET LEADING AIRPORT LOUNGE Although the Awards was launched in 2012, the year 2016 marks the 5th Anniversary of the Travel Awards. Continuous ceremonies held throughout the years made the awards one of the most prestigious and highly recognised label in the tourism sector of the Maldives.

EVENT BOOKLET | MALDIVES TRAVEL AWARDS 2016

THE NOMINEES RESORTS

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THE NOMINEES HOTELS

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THE NOMINEES AVIATION & TRANSPORT

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THE NOMINEES LIVEABOARDS

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THE NOMINEES WELLNESS & SPA

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THE NOMINEES LIVEABOARDS

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THE NOMINEES DIVE CENTRE

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“Proud and enjoyed being a part of Maldives Travel Awards 2016.”

- MVHOTELS -

Follow More Updates at mvhotelsonline.com

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