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SUN SIYAM VILU REEF SHOWCASES THE SOUL OF MALDIVIAN CUISINE THROUGH ITS SIGNATURE “KANDU KUKULHU” COOKING EXPERIENCE

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A chef is demonstrating a cooking technique over a large frying pan in an outdoor, thatched-roof cooking class area, with several Maldivian dishes laid out on a table in front of him.

At Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, Maldivian cuisine is honoured not merely as food but as a reflection of island heritage and identity. One of its most meaningful traditions is the preparation of Kandu Kukulhu, the Maldives’ iconic rolled tuna curry. Rooted in local custom and shared across generations, this dish has become the heart of Vilu Reef’s weekly Maldivian cooking classes, offering an intimate encounter with the flavours, techniques, and stories that define the islands. As part of the resort’s signature culinary journey, it brings the Maldivian spirit to life through authentic tastes and thoughtful storytelling.

Deeply rooted in local tradition, Kandu Kukulhu reflects centuries of craft and care. At Vilu Reef, the experience is guided by the resort’s Maldivian chefs, who demonstrate each step with the precision and intuition that comes from generations of practice. Guests will discover to artfully slice the tuna and layer it with aromatic spices to binding the rolls with coconut or pandan leaf. As the curry slowly cooks in coconut milk, its scent fills the atmosphere, offering a vivid glimpse into everyday island cooking. It is an experience that lingers long after the final tasting.

Kandu Kukulhu, which literally translates to “chicken of the sea,” is the Maldivian special tuna curry, a remarkable tribute to the Maldives islands’ deep-rooted connection to the ocean.

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef’s culinary story celebrates Maldivian heritage, moving beyond simply serving fresh seafood,” says Chef de Cuisine Mohamed Hameed, known as Chef Printey. ” It is a connection to our islands, our people, and the traditions that shaped Maldivian cuisine. By sharing these methods, we bring our cultural narrative to life in the most sincere way.”

The cooking class forms a key part of the Maldivian Roots Signature Experience, that highlights the flavours, crafts, and cultural expressions that define the Maldives. It embodies the Sun Siyam philosophy of celebrating island life through meaningful encounters and genuine Maldivian spirit. This experience is available for all guests at Sun Siyam Vilu Reef and can be booked in advance during their stay.

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Hospitality

RENAISSANCE BUSINESS BAY HOTEL, DUBAI UNVEILS RAMADAN EXPERIENCES DESIGNED FOR COMFORT AND CONNECTION

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The image shows an elegant indoor dining space at Renaissance Business Bay Hotel. The room is arranged with multiple round and square wooden tables set with plates, glassware and cutlery, each surrounded by cushioned wooden chairs. The floor features a patterned tile design in warm tones, complementing the soft yellow lighting from ceiling fixtures and table lamps. Large floor‑to‑ceiling windows line one side of the room, offering views of nearby Dubai buildings and allowing natural light into the space. Framed artwork decorates the walls, and long curtains frame the windows, creating a refined and welcoming restaurant atmosphere.

Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, Dubai welcomes the holy month with a limited time collection of Ramadan stay experiences and dining offers, designed to bring greater comfort, flexibility, and value throughout the season. Whether planning a restful city stay aligned with fasting routines, gathering for a relaxed Iftar after sunset, or hosting a large corporate celebration, the hotel presents thoughtful options for every occasion during Ramadan.

Iftar Buffet at Podium

For guests gathering after sunset, Podium offers a relaxed Iftar buffet designed for easy Ramadan evenings with family, friends, or colleagues. The spread begins with traditional Ramadan staples, followed by a generous selection of mezze and fresh salads, then comforting mains featuring rice dishes, slow-cooked specialities and grilled favourites. The experience ends on a sweet note with classic Arabic desserts. To finish, guests can enjoy classic Arabic sweets. With no minimum booking requirement, it is a flexible option for both small tables and larger groups, making it suitable for spontaneous plans as well as organised meet ups. Guests can enjoy the buffet at the standard rate of AED 165 per person, with a special corporate, early bird, and promotional rate of AED 125 per person, offering added value for group bookings and weekday gatherings.

  • Corporate, early bird and promotional rate: AED 125 per person
  • No minimum booking requirement

Ramadan Stay Offer

Created to suit the rhythm of Ramadan, the hotel’s Ramadan Stay Offer combines thoughtful inclusions with practical timings that make each stay feel seamless from arrival to departure. Guests can choose between Iftar, breakfast, or sahur included, allowing the experience to fit individual routines and schedules. For added everyday value, the offer includes AED 50 in food and beverage credit per person, per day, redeemable at selected venues and ideal for relaxed dining moments throughout the stay. With early check in from 10:00 AM and late check out until 4:00 PM, guests are invited to slow down, rest more, and experience the holy month at a calmer pace.

  • Iftar, breakfast or sahur included
  • Early check in from 10:00 AM and late check out until 4:00 PM

Exclusive Ballroom Iftar

For larger Ramadan gatherings, Renaissance Business Bay Hotel, Dubai’s Ballroom Iftar offers a private, spacious setting designed for easy hosting and meaningful time together. Ideal for corporate Iftars, community events, and big family get-togethers, guests can enjoy a generous buffet in a dedicated venue that feels polished and comfortable. With room to gather, connect, and celebrate at scale, it is a considered choice for organisers looking for a seamless group experience with a clear, all in rate and minimal fuss from start to finish

  • Minimum booking: 100 guests
  • Suitable for: corporate Iftars and large private group bookings
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Hospitality

LOVE WITH A VIEW: A MAGICAL VALENTINE EXPERIENCE AWAITS AT JOE’S CAFÉ DUBAI

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Romantic outdoor dinner at Joe’s Café Dubai with a couple dining by candlelight, exchanging a rose at a table overlooking the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, and illuminated city skyline at night.

Love deserves a setting as iconic as the moment itself. This Valentine’s Day, Joe’s Café Dubai creates an unforgettable Valentine experience; from golden-hour moments to the sparkle of the fountain shows, every detail unfolds effortlessly. Located in the prestigious Dubai Mall within the Fashion Avenue, the elegant Joe’s Café offers a seamless blend of Knightsbridge sophistication and modern Middle Eastern hospitality. 

Overlooking the majestic Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, Joe’s Café sets the stage for an intimate celebration designed to linger in memory. Whether it’s your first Valentine together or a tradition you hold close, the experience is thoughtfully curated to bring warmth, flavour, and connection to the forefront.

Guests can indulge in exclusive Valentine’s set menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, complemented by thoughtful romantic touches and uninterrupted skyline views. Each Valentine’s menu is crafted to delight the senses offering signature Joe’s Café classics with a romantic twist: strawberry matcha, Joe’s Pancakes, Risotto Al Mare, La Bolognese, Wagyu Rib-Eye Steak, Golden Lobster Risotto and sweet ending- Strawberry Cheesecake or Joe’s Dubai Chocolate.

The experience is elevated further with complimentary Valentine’s gestures including non-alcoholic champagne and table set up with flowers and little surprises, because romance is found in the details.

Date: Valentine’s experience is available from 13th to 15th February, 2026

Time: From 09:00 AM to 12:00AM. Advance booking required to enjoy a complimentary non-alcoholic champagne and decorated table set-up just for you.  

Location: Joe’s Café Dubai, Fashion Avenue, First Floor, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai

Whether it’s a sun-kissed breakfast, a leisurely afternoon lunch, or an enchanting candlelit dinner, Joe’s Café offers a Valentine’s experience where romance flows as seamlessly as the fountain below.

Born on Sloane Street, London in the early 1980s, Joe’s Café brings its iconic fashion-heritage charm to Fashion Avenue at The Dubai Mall, offering relaxed luxury dining with unrivalled views of Dubai’s most celebrated landmarks.

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Hospitality

CELEBRATE LOVE WITH A BESPOKE EXPERIENCE AT INTERCONTINENTAL RESIDENCES DUBAI BUSINESS BAY

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Couple enjoying a private balcony dining experience at InterContinental Residences, seated at a round table with rose petals, cocktails, and plated dishes, overlooking the Dubai Canal and Burj Khalifa skyline, with another scene showing the couple standing by floor-to-ceiling windows clinking glasses against the city view.

InterContinental Residences Dubai Business Bay invites couples to an intimate celebration overlooking the Dubai Canal and the iconic city skyline this Valentine’s Day. Priced at AED 3,500 per couple, the Valentine’s package includes a one-night stay in a One-Bedroom Residence Burj Khalifa and Dubai Canal View, and breakfast.

The offer also comprises a romantic three-course set menu prepared exclusively for the occasion, accompanied by a bottle of prosecco to toast the evening. The dinner begins with a choice of starters including Salmon Carpaccio, Heirloom Tomato and Burrata, or Clam Chowder. For the main course, couples will indulge in a Surf and Turf of Tomahawk and Grilled Prawns, followed by a decadent dessert of Chocolate Fondue and Molten Chocolate Cake.

Designed for those seeking privacy and distinction, the hotel’s Valentine’s offer focuses on curated moments away from the crowds. Couples can enjoy a bespoke dinner served on a private balcony, providing a front-row seat to the Burj Khalifa and picturesque Dubai Canal.

By combining high-end service with intimate setting, InterContinental Residences Dubai Business Bay offers a premium romantic escape without the typical bustle of the city dining. This year’s packages are crafted to provide a memorable experience, ensuring every detail, from the view to the menu, feels personal and exclusive.

The Details

  • What: Valentine’s Day Escape at InterContinental Residences Dubai Business Bay
  • When: 13th to 15th February
  • Inclusions: One-night stay for two in a One Bedroom Residence Burj Khalifa and Dubai Canal View, inclusive of breakfast, three-course set menu and a bottle of prosecco
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