Suresh Dissanayake, Assistant Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Adaaran Resorts and Heritance Aarah, leverages over 15 years of experience in the Maldives’ tourism industry. His extensive expertise was recently recognised with the ‘Sales Personality of the Year’ accolade by Hotelier Maldives, highlighting his exceptional contributions to the field.
Our team had the opportunity to sit down with him to explore what sets Heritance Aarah apart in the competitive market and how Adaaran Resorts distinguishes itself from other Maldivian resorts.
With a deep understanding of current trends and tourist behaviours, Suresh also shared his expert insights into the industry’s evolving dynamics, discussed the current challenges, and outlined his vision for the future of tourism in the Maldives.
My journey in the Maldives’ hospitality industry has been like a long voyage across the azure waters surrounding our islands, rich in discoveries, challenges, and rewarding moments. Over the years, I’ve navigated the unique currents of this market, learning the importance of personalised service, the power of innovation, and the art of forging strong, meaningful relationships with travel trade partners.
One of the key milestones in this journey has been building a network that spans continents, allowing us to promote our resorts year-round, reaching every corner of the globe. It’s a collective effort, a symphony where every team member plays a crucial role in creating harmony. My approach as Assistant Vice President of Sales & Marketing is deeply rooted in understanding guest expectations and continuously refining our offerings to meet and exceed them. Sustainability is our compass, guiding us towards long-term success for our resorts and the Maldives. This journey is not mine alone; it’s a shared adventure with a talented and passionate multicultural team by my side.
Heritance Aarah is where luxury, culture, and sustainability meet to create a truly one-of-a-kind experience. This resort isn’t just a destination; it’s a journey into the heart of the Maldives, where modern comforts seamlessly blend with age-old traditions. What makes Heritance Aarah truly special is our commitment to authenticity, ensuring that every guest experiences the Maldives as it was meant to be pure, untouched, and full of life.
One of our greatest strengths is our culinary excellence. We’ve been hailed as the culinary destination of the Maldives, offering an unparalleled range of cuisines across multiple outlets within our all-inclusive package. Whether it’s a gourmet feast or a simple, authentic Maldivian dish, our guests are treated to a culinary journey that leaves a lasting impression.
Our focus on wellness and holistic experiences is another key differentiator. Heritance Aarah is home to the Maldives’ first Medi spa, and our wellness programs are designed to rejuvenate the body and soul. We offer an extensive range of sports, water activities, and even a traditional Maldivian village experience, ensuring that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re an adventure seeker or someone looking to unwind.
Sustainability is woven into every resort aspect, from energy-efficient practices to marine conservation programs. Our guests can indulge in luxury while knowing that their stay contributes to preserving the Maldives’ natural beauty. We’re proud to have achieved LEED Gold certification and to be recognised for our commitment to building a sustainable future.
Adaaran Resorts is more than just a collection of luxurious, boutique & and value-for-money properties; it’s the heart and soul of Maldivian hospitality, a homegrown brand that has stood the test of time. Our deep connection to the Maldives’ natural beauty and cultural richness truly sets us apart. Each of our resorts is like a unique chapter in a storybook, offering diverse experiences that cater to every kind of traveller, from the luxury seeker to the value-seeking adventurer.
All our resorts are nestled on natural islands, and we take immense pride in offering personalised service where every guest is treated with the warmth and care that defines Maldivian hospitality. Our culinary offerings are a testament to our commitment to excellence, with chefs who pour their hearts into every dish, creating a feast for the senses that blends local and international flavours.
Sustainability is not just a buzzword for us; it’s a way of life. We actively engage in initiatives that protect our marine environment and support local communities, ensuring our operations contribute positively to the Maldives’ ecosystem. We believe in nurturing local talent and investing time and resources to ensure that the future of Maldivian tourism is in capable, local hands. Our team is our greatest asset, and together, we create the magic of Adaaran Resorts.
The Maldives’ tourism landscape has transformed dramatically over the past decade, much like the shifting sands of our beautiful beaches. The market has diversified with travellers from new regions like South America, Southeast Asia, North America, and Eastern Europe. There’s been a significant shift towards experiential travel, where guests seek luxury and a deeper connection to the Maldives’ culture, environment, and people.
Technology has been a game changer, with digital marketing and online booking platforms allowing us to reach a global audience like never before. The influx of new, luxurious brands has elevated the Maldives’ visibility in the luxury space, but it’s also brought challenges that we must navigate carefully.
I envision continued growth in sustainable tourism, driven by the global demand for eco-friendly practices. The Maldives will likely see further diversification in its offerings, with a stronger focus on wellness, adventure tourism, and cultural experiences. However, the challenge will be balancing this growth with the need to protect our environment and preserve the unique charm of the Maldives. Leading brands must act responsibly when choosing islands for development, and I hope we see a move towards limiting man-made islands to protect our fragile ecosystem.
In recent years, we’ve observed a beautiful shift towards personalised and experiential travel. Guests are no longer just looking for a luxurious stay; they want unique experiences that allow them to connect with the local culture, environment, and people. From authentic Maldivian cooking classes and traditional fishing trips to stargazing and wellness retreats, travellers seek deeper, more meaningful experiences.
Sustainability is another major trend, with more travellers choosing resorts prioritising environmental stewardship. There’s a growing demand for eco-friendly accommodations, and soon, I believe guests will begin to differentiate between natural and man-made islands when choosing where to stay.
We’ve also seen a shift in our guests’ demographic profile, with more multigenerational families, solo travellers, and younger couples discovering the Maldives. These groups have specific preferences, such as family-friendly amenities, opportunities for social interaction, and activities that cater to diverse age groups. It’s an exciting time for us as we adapt and evolve to meet these changing needs.
The biggest challenge we face is climate change’s impact, which threatens our islands’ very existence. Rising sea levels and changing weather patterns pose significant risks, and we must tackle this challenge head-on. At Adaaran Resorts and Heritance Aarah, we are committed to sustainable practices, from using renewable energy sources and reducing waste to engaging in coral reef restoration projects. We’re not just protecting our islands; we’re safeguarding the future of the Maldives for generations to come.
Another challenge is the increasing unhealthy competition in the market. With more resorts opening, it’s crucial that we differentiate ourselves through exceptional service, unique experiences, and innovative marketing strategies. We invest heavily in staff training and development to ensure our teams deliver the highest standards of hospitality. It’s a team effort, and every team member plays a vital role in creating the exceptional guest experiences that set us apart.
The Maldives’ remote location also presents logistical challenges, particularly regarding supply chain management and operational costs. We’re addressing these challenges by optimising our supply chain processes, investing in local partnerships, and exploring ways to reduce our carbon footprint. It’s all part of our commitment to sustainability and innovation.
My long-term vision for the Maldives tourism industry is centred on sustainability, cultural preservation, and continued innovation. I see a future where the Maldives isn’t just a leading luxury destination and a global model for sustainable tourism.
In my current role, I’m committed to driving initiatives that promote eco-friendly practices, such as reducing single-use plastics, conserving water and energy, and supporting local conservation efforts. I believe in enhancing the guest experience by incorporating more cultural elements into our offerings, allowing travellers to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Maldivian heritage.
A significant part of my goal is also to build and nurture local marketing talent. I look forward to the day when I can hand over the reins to a Maldivian marketer who has been mentored and given the freedom to think creatively and act decisively. The potential here is immense, and with the right guidance and opportunities, Maldivians can lead the way in shaping the future of their tourism industry. My greatest joy will be seeing this vision come to life, led by a new generation of innovative, creative local talent.
