Heritance Aarah stands out for its unique fusion of Maldivian and Sri Lankan hospitality, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for all guests. The team at the resort is dedicated to ensuring that every visitor leaves with cherished memories of their time spent in this idyllic location.
In every resort, a collective effort drives the creation of magical experiences, and Heritance Aarah is no exception. Here, we explore the stories of those who work tirelessly to make every moment extraordinary, right in the heart of the Maldives, where tradition comes alive.
Mohamed Mahudhee, Assistant Vice President of Administration at Aitken Spence Hotels & Resorts Maldives, began his hospitality career three decades ago as a kitchen trainee. Over the years, he progressed through various roles, including store, accounts, reception, housekeeping, and management trainee, playing pivotal roles in projects at Heritance Aarah, Adaaran Prestige Vadoo, Adaaran Select Meedhupparu, Addaran Select Hudhuran Fushi and Adaaran Club Rannalhi. He remains passionate about his work, feeling a deep connection to the company’s growth from a modest 37-room resort to one of the largest hotel chains in the Maldives. Overseeing procurement, HR, guest transport, airport operations, and general administration, Mahudhee ensures high standards in property maintenance, staff welfare, and guest service. He emphasises loyalty, honesty, and integrity, leading by example to foster a trustworthy and transparent business environment that positively impacts the guest experience, ensuring that visitors to Heritance Aarah enjoy an outstanding stay.
Amila Silva, the esteemed Executive Chef of Heritance Aarah, has a distinguished career spanning over two decades, with international experience in Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Dubai, and Saudi Arabia. He is renowned for his culinary skills and has won numerous awards, including the Culinary Olympic and Culinary World Cup awards in 2020 and 2022. Amila has mentored many aspiring chefs and is known for his use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create unique dining experiences. His creative process involves balancing tradition with innovation, incorporating diverse cultural influences, and using modern techniques. At Heritance Aarah, he blends traditional Maldivian elements with international flavours, emphasising sustainability and authenticity. His future aspirations include achieving global recognition and nurturing culinary talent.
Karunagalage Pushpabandu, Food & Beverage Manager at Heritance Aarah, began his career as a trainee in Sri Lanka in 1999. After working at Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, he returned to Sri Lanka in 2010 and joined a hospitality chain in the Maldives in 2013. His journey with Aitken Spence Hotels started in 2016 at Adaaran Select Hudhuran Fushi, and he joined Heritance Aarah in 2018. Pushpabandu focuses on quality ingredients, expert team collaboration, and guest feedback to craft memorable culinary experiences, including Instagrammable moments. He has introduced innovative techniques such as homemade syrups, sustainable garnishes, flavour blaster cocktails, and molecular mixology. He notes a growing demand for health-conscious options, non-alcoholic spirits, and personalised beverages, aiming to create sensorial dining experiences at Heritance Aarah.