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Sun Siyam marks 35 years with fresh identity and signature Maldivian experiences

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Sun Siyam Resorts has unveiled a milestone brand transformation as it celebrates 35 years of Maldivian hospitality. More than a visual refresh, the (r)evolution introduces a powerful new statement, “The Home of the Maldivian Spirit”, reaffirming the group’s reputation as one of the most culturally authentic resort operators in the Maldives.

The rebrand unites five Maldivian resorts and the group’s Sri Lankan property under a single umbrella, The House of Siyam, while rolling out Signature Experiences and a refreshed loyalty programme, Siyam Rewards.

Three Distinct Resort Collections

To make it easier for guests and partners to navigate the portfolio, Sun Siyam Resorts has introduced three clear collections:

  • Luxury Collection:
    Island indulgence at its finest. Sun Siyam Iru Fushi leads this flagship tier with elevated experiences in a sun-soaked paradise.
  • Lifestyle Collection:
    Energetic and adventure-driven, perfect for families and groups. Sun Siyam Olhuveli and Siyam World offer vibrant entertainment and recreation.
  • Prive Collection:
    Secluded barefoot escapes. Sun Siyam Iru Veli, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, and Sun Siyam Pasikudah (Sri Lanka) provide privacy and personalised service for romantic, soulful getaways.

Signature Experiences with a Maldivian Soul

The transformation goes beyond design, adding immersive experiences that bring local heritage and creativity to every stay. Highlights include:

  • Maldivian Roots: Weekly culinary and cultural journeys celebrating island traditions.
  • Insta Villa: The Maldives’ first over-water photo studio for picture-perfect moments.
  • Sun Siyam Beach Club: A lively hub where laid-back afternoons turn into nights of music and dance.
  • Plant-based bliss, hidden treasure chests, moonlit cinemas and the ceremonial wow welcome, unique touches that create memorable stays.

Loyalty, Sustainability and Community

The group also launched Siyam Rewards, a digital membership programme offering personalised itineraries, room upgrades, optional carbon offsets, and rewards from the very first booking.

Every stay continues to support marine conservation and community initiatives through the Sun Siyam Care sustainability platform.

Leaders on the Milestone

Founder, Owner & Managing Director Ahmed Siyam Mohamed said: “When we founded Sun Siyam in 1990, our goal was to share the warmth of our islands and our people with the world. This transformation preserves that soul while creating space to innovate for the next generation of free-spirited travellers.”

CEO Deepak Booneady added: “This rebrand is about more than design — it’s about cultural authenticity, purpose-driven hospitality, and creating moments that spark joy.”

A Modern Maldivian Identity

The new look ties together every touchpoint, from redesigned interiors to the refreshed website at sunsiyam.com, blending a vibrant Maldivian spirit with a contemporary edge.

Redesigned website

With a redesigned website now live at sunsiyam.com, the new brand identity unifies every touchpoint, from print and digital platforms to guest experiences on the islands. The result is a look and feel that is authentically Maldivian yet confidently modern.

To bring this transformation to life, Sun Siyam partnered with top industry experts:

  • JHAGGER&CO led the year-long project, starting with in-depth audience research and an internal reset of the group’s vision, purpose, and values.
  • Lee McNichol and Jose Rivero, Founders and Creative Directors of London-based StudioSixty7, reimagined interiors to reflect a refreshed, contemporary island aesthetic.
  • Maldives hospitality pioneer Dominik Ruhl guided the creation of new operational standards and Signature Experiences, embedding the brand’s spirit in daily service.

This collaborative effort, brought to life by Sun Siyam’s island operations team,  led by VP of Operations Abdulla Thamheed and supported by General Managers, Resort Managers, and the brand’s sales, marketing, and PR teams,  has produced a warm, vibrant design system that preserves Maldivian soul while embracing a fresh, modern edge.

Why This Matters for Travellers

  • Easier to choose the right island stay with clear Luxury, Lifestyle and Prive categories.
  • New Signature Experiences offer deeper cultural immersion and memorable activities.
  • Direct bookings now come with personalised rewards and benefits.
  • Commitment to sustainability and local heritage means travellers support conservation with every stay.

From one property to six resorts

Founded in 1990, Sun Siyam Resorts has grown from a single Maldivian property to six resorts across the Maldives and Sri Lanka, including the newest addition, Siyam World. The brand is anchored in The Home of the Maldivian Spirit, blending heartfelt island hospitality with innovative experiences and a commitment to sustainability.

For more information, visit sunsiyam.com or follow @sunsiyamresorts on social media.

With over 35 years of experience in journalism, copywriting, and PR, Michael Gomes is a seasoned media professional deeply rooted in the UAE’s print and digital landscape.

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Dubai traffic update: RTA just cut peak-hour travel times on Al Marabea Street by 30%

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Motorists using Al Marabea’ Street in Al Quoz can expect smoother journeys after Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) completed a series of road upgrades aimed at easing congestion and improving traffic flow.

The project covered a 1.1-km stretch between the Al Khail Road exit and Al Asayel Street, increasing road capacity by 30% and cutting journey times by up to 30% during peak hours.

The improvements are part of RTA’s wider programme to expand Dubai’s road network and respond to rising traffic linked to the emirate’s rapid urban growth.

Congestion cut by 50%

As part of the works, an intersection was expanded with an additional lane for vehicles travelling from Al Marabea’ Street towards Street 16A.

The extra lane has reduced congestion and vehicle queues at the intersection by 50%, according to the RTA.

New modern lighting poles have also been installed to improve visibility and road safety, particularly at night.

More upgrades coming

RTA is continuing work on Al Marabea’ Street, with a new service road and continuous pedestrian walkway planned to serve the neighbouring industrial area.

The ongoing project also includes a new access point at the beginning of the Al Khail Road exit towards Al Marabea’ Street, designed to improve access and safety.

The remaining works are expected to be completed by the end of August 2026.

Al Marabea’ Street is an important route through Al Quoz, connecting Al Khail Road and Al Asayel Street while providing access to industrial, commercial and residential areas. The corridor also serves traffic travelling to and from Al Quoz, Al Meydan, Business Bay and Downtown Dubai.


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UAE 50°C temperatures and morning fog: What UAE residents need to know before heading out

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UAE residents can expect very hot weather, rising humidity and possible fog or mist in the coming days, with a chance of rainfall over eastern areas.

According to the National Centre of Meteorology (NCM), skies will remain fair to partly cloudy, with convective clouds potentially developing over eastern areas in the afternoon and bringing rain.

Humidity is expected to increase overnight and on Tuesday morning, particularly over some western coastal areas. This could lead to fog or mist and reduced visibility.

Motorists have been advised to take extra care during early morning drives and adjust their speed when visibility is poor.

Temperatures approach 50°C

Meanwhile, daytime temperatures will remain exceptionally high across the country. Coastal areas are expected to reach 40°C to 45°C, while temperatures in inland areas could climb to 49°C.

Light winds and calm seas

Winds are expected to be light to moderate, becoming fresh at times. Sea conditions will remain slight, with waves reaching around two feet onshore and three feet offshore.

With extreme daytime heat continuing alongside higher humidity and possible fog, residents are advised to plan outdoor activities carefully and exercise caution on the roads during periods of reduced visibility.


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Etihad Rail warns passengers of Dh200 fines for ticket violations

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Etihad Rail has warned passengers that travelling without a valid ticket or misusing discounted fares could result in a Dh200 fine, denial of service and possible legal action.

Under the company’s Passenger Charter, travellers must have a valid ticket before boarding an Etihad Rail train or bus. A ticket is valid only when it carries the correct passenger name, date and travel time, and has not already been used.

What can lead to a Dh200 fine?

Etihad Rail lists four key violations that can attract a Dh200 penalty:

  • Travelling without a valid ticket, including using a ticket issued in someone else’s name.
  • Deliberately avoiding payment of the correct fare.
  • Using a discounted or category-specific ticket without being eligible.
  • Forging, altering or fraudulently obtaining a ticket.

Invalid or fraudulent tickets may be confiscated by authorised staff, with no compensation payable for confiscated tickets.

Passengers found without a valid ticket may also have to purchase a Flexible ticket at the applicable fare for their journey.

Ticket checks can happen throughout the journey

Passengers must carry their ticket and valid identification and produce them when requested by Etihad Rail staff or authorised personnel.

Checks can take place at departure stations, during the journey, at intermediate stations and when passengers leave the platform at their destination.

Travellers using electronic tickets are responsible for ensuring their phones have enough battery to display the ticket when required.

Passengers must also travel in the coach and seat shown on their ticket, unless instructed otherwise by Etihad Rail.

Repeat offenders could face travel bans

Etihad Rail said repeated or serious violations could lead to passengers being refused travel, required to end their journey or barred from using its services for a specified or indefinite period.

The company may also refer cases to the relevant authorities, including the Public Prosecution. Additional penalties, including imprisonment where provided by law, may apply.

Passengers denied travel or service because of a violation may not be entitled to a refund or compensation.

Etihad Rail also prohibits buying tickets from unauthorised sources, altering tickets to defraud the company, or transferring unused or partially used tickets where the ticket conditions do not allow it.


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