JW Marriott Maldives Launches ‘Indian Ocean Night’ to Celebrate Culture and Cuisine

Sunday 1st of June 2025

Set between the endless blues of the sky and sea, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort has introduced a new weekly experience: Indian Ocean Night. Held every Wednesday at Veyo, the resort’s international dining venue with sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, this event invites guests to explore the rich cultural and culinary heritage of the Maldives and its coastal neighbors.

At the heart of the evening is a specially curated menu called Whispers of the Indian Ocean. It features traditional dishes from across the region, such as Bis Keemiya, a Maldivian-style samosa, and Havaadhulee Bis, delicate steamed tuna dumplings. Guests can also enjoy flavorful main courses like Maldivian Chicken Curry and Alleppey Prawn Curry, all crafted using locally inspired ingredients. Live grill stations add the inviting aroma of open-fire cooking, creating a festive atmosphere enhanced by Maldivian Bodu Beru drumming and live performances.

But Indian Ocean Night goes beyond food. It also offers guests the chance to witness Liyelaa Jehun—traditional Maldivian lacquer art. In collaboration with a skilled artisan from Thulhaadhoo Island, visitors can observe the careful brushwork and carving techniques that define this centuries-old craft. Guests are even encouraged to try their hand at the artform in a guided workshop, gaining insight into the heritage and craftsmanship behind each piece.

The resort also offers a deeper dive into Maldivian cuisine with a hands-on cooking session led by a local chef. Held at Pure, the resort’s beachfront open kitchen, guests learn to prepare traditional recipes like Mas Huni—a classic Maldivian breakfast of tuna and coconut—and Fiyala Curry, known for its bold and comforting flavors. With the ocean as the backdrop and the breeze in the air, this culinary workshop blends taste, storytelling, and culture in a truly memorable way.

These experiences are designed to help guests form a stronger connection with the Maldives—not just through its beauty, but through its people, history, and traditions. Whether tasting a time-honored dish, listening to the rhythm of a drum, or painting lacquer in an artisan’s workshop, guests are invited to discover a different side of the islands.

Located just 15 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, JW Marriott Maldives Kaafu Atoll Island Resort features 80 private pool villas, all offering ocean views, spacious terraces, and direct lagoon access. With its focus on luxury, culture, and meaningful experiences, the resort provides the perfect setting to relax, explore, and celebrate the soul of the Maldives.