DUBAI, UAE – Visit Maldives has announced a vibrant cultural showcase, Maldivian Evening 2025, to be held on April 28, 2025, at the Theatre of Digital Art (TODA) in Dubai. Slated to coincide with the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), this immersive evening aims to spotlight the Maldives as a richly layered destination that offers far more than just sun and sand.
The event, running from 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., will serve as a high-profile platform to deepen ties with international media, travel professionals, and key partners in the Middle East and beyond. With ATM 2025 declared as the Maldives’ flagship travel trade event of the year, this cultural evening is set to be a cornerstone of the country’s reimagined marketing strategy.
Rather than relying solely on picturesque imagery, Visit Maldives is turning to storytelling and cultural immersion to engage audiences. Maldivian Evening 2025 promises a full sensory experience, blending theatre, food, fashion, and technology to celebrate the Maldives’ heritage, lifestyle, and evolving tourism identity.
A red carpet inspired by traditional Maldivian motifs will welcome guests, followed by guided walkthroughs of TODA’s immersive space. The foyer will be transformed into a hub for media content creation and brand interaction, reinforcing the Maldives’ image as a luxury destination with depth.
Central to the evening is the premiere of Dhivehi Dreams, a short film capturing the essence of Maldivian life and landscapes. The screening will lead into a dramatic retelling of the beloved folktale Dhon Hiyala & Alifulhu, presented through an innovative blend of stage performance and gastronomic storytelling. Traditional dishes will be served in harmony with each scene, with curated menu cards providing insight into their origins and significance.
Other highlights include a fashion show that merges tradition with modernity, showcasing Maldivian attire reinterpreted for global appeal. Live performances of music and dance will punctuate the evening, while storytelling segments will trace the cultural threads that shape the island nation’s identity.
Interactive exhibits will feature prominently. Guests can explore the Maldives’ unique ecosystems through Virtual Reality, with panoramic views of coral reefs, mangroves, and pristine beaches. Another room will offer hands-on experiences with traditional crafts like Kasabu Viyun, Kunaa, and Fangi Vinun, brought to life by skilled artisans.
In a special artistic feature titled Synergy of Art and Sound, acclaimed Maldivian artist Raappe will create a live artwork in rhythm with musical compositions, celebrating the intersection of tradition and modern expression.
The evening will conclude on a high note with a performance by Skyrock, one of the Maldives’ most celebrated musical groups, promising a powerful finale to a night dedicated to culture, creativity, and connection.
Visit Maldives CEO and Managing Director Ibrahim Shiuree said the event is a bold step in redefining how the world sees the Maldives. “We want our guests to feel the heartbeat of our islands—not just see them. This is about celebrating who we are, beyond the beaches,” he said.
Maldivian Evening 2025 is poised to be a landmark moment in the Maldives’ tourism narrative, opening up new avenues for cultural tourism, creative collaboration, and deeper engagement with global audiences.
