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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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Announcements

Ajman to launch new Rental Dispute Resolution Centre under 2026 law

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Ajman has announced the establishment of a new Rental Dispute Resolution Centre, aimed at streamlining landlord-tenant disputes and strengthening stability in the emirate’s real estate sector.

His Highness Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, has issued Law No. (1) of 2026, formally creating the centre and replacing the existing rental disputes committee.

Clearer, Faster Rental Dispute Resolution

The new law introduces transparent and clearly defined mechanisms for reviewing and adjudicating rental disputes, with the objective of:

  • Protecting the rights of landlords and tenants
  • Enhancing confidence in Ajman’s property market
  • Supporting a stable and attractive investment environment

Jurisdiction and Scope

The specialised centre will have authority over all rental-related disputes between landlords and tenants, including:

  • Residential and commercial properties
  • Properties located within free zones

Cases will be handled using procedures aligned with recognised legal and judicial standards, ensuring fairness and consistency.

Boosting Market Stability

Officials said the new centre is designed to:

  • Speed up dispute resolution
  • Reduce litigation timelines
  • Ensure swift and effective justice

The move is expected to contribute to social and economic stability in Ajman’s leasing and real estate sector, while reinforcing investor confidence.






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News

Abu Dhabi updates traffic diversion rules, Darb tolls to boost road safety and efficiency

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The Integrated Transport Centre (ITC) has announced new amendments to Abu Dhabi’s traffic diversion regulations, aimed at improving traffic flow, safety and compliance at construction and roadwork sites across the emirate.

The updated framework strengthens oversight of traffic permits, enhances enforcement powers and introduces clearer procedures for emergency works.

Key Changes to Traffic Diversion Rules

Under the revised regulations:

  • Definitions related to traffic permits and No Objection Certificates (NOCs) have been updated to improve clarity
  • Traffic permits are non-transferable; any attempt to transfer a permit will render it invalid
  • Emergency works may proceed without prior permit approval, provided all road safety requirements are met
  • ITC must be notified before emergency work begins, and a formal permit application must be submitted within 24 hours if work exceeds 12 hours

Permit Suspension and Enforcement Powers

The amendments grant ITC expanded authority to:

  • Temporarily suspend issuing traffic permits based on site conditions or safety risks
  • Reject extension requests or cancel permits if requirements are not met
  • Take action against entities that exceed approved timelines or commit repeated administrative violations

The schedule of violations and fines has also been updated to reflect current standards, with conflicting older provisions officially repealed.

Training, Inspections and Compliance

ITC said the changes followed specialised workshops and training programmes for contractors, consultants and relevant stakeholders to ensure proper implementation of safety standards.

The Centre will continue inspection campaigns and field visits, with fines imposed on violators to:

  • Protect road users and workers
  • Maintain public safety
  • Safeguard road infrastructure

Changes to Abu Dhabi’s Darb Road Toll System

Separately, ITC (Abu Dhabi Mobility) confirmed updates to the Darb road toll system.

New Darb Toll Timings

  • Morning peak: 7am to 9am (unchanged)
  • Evening peak: 3pm to 7pm
  • Toll-free: Sundays and official public holidays

The Dh4 toll per gate crossing remains unchanged.

Removal of Toll Caps

The revised system removes:

  • Daily toll cap of Dh16
  • Monthly caps of Dh200, Dh150 and Dh100 for first, second and additional vehicles

Exemptions Remain

Existing exemptions continue for eligible groups, including:

  • People of Determination
  • Low-income families
  • Senior citizens and retirees

The Darb system is operated by Q Mobility, a subsidiary of ADQ, in coordination with relevant authorities.







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Entertainment

Dubai launches ‘Dubai+’ family streaming platform to boost digital media and creative economy

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Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, has approved the launch of Dubai+, a new family-oriented digital media platform, reinforcing Dubai’s ambition to become a global hub for digital media and the creative economy.

The approval came as Sheikh Ahmed chaired the Dubai Media Council’s first meeting of 2026 at Dubai Media, where members reviewed sector strategies and plans to strengthen content creation, innovation and local production capabilities.

What is Dubai+?

Dubai+ will offer a wide range of family-friendly content, bringing together:

  • Local and Emirati productions
  • Arab series and films
  • International entertainment

The platform reflects Dubai Media’s integrated digital ecosystem strategy, responding to shifting viewer habits and the growing demand for high-quality, on-demand digital content.

“We believe media is a strategic force that shapes awareness, supports development and builds trust,” Sheikh Ahmed said. 

Boosting Local Film and Content Production

The Council also reviewed plans to:

  • Enhance local production capabilities
  • Support cinema as a cultural and creative industry
  • Invest in programmes that drive creative and economic growth

Samr Al Marzooqi, Director of Films and Production at the Dubai Media Council, outlined upcoming initiatives aimed at showcasing Emirati and international talent while strengthening Dubai’s film sector.

Next Phase of Growth

Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council, said the next phase will focus on monitoring implementation and ensuring measurable outcomes across the sector.

Secretary General Nehal Badri added that priorities include encouraging private sector participation, accelerating content development, and investing in talent, advanced production technologies and future-ready capabilities.








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