Hospitality
SUN SIYAM VILU REEF SHOWCASES THE SOUL OF MALDIVIAN CUISINE THROUGH ITS SIGNATURE “KANDU KUKULHU” COOKING EXPERIENCE
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.
Hospitality
SOBHA REALTY AND KEETA DRONE SIGN STRATEGIC MOU, LAUNCHING AIR DELIVERY IN SOBHA COMMUNITIES

Sobha Realty, a leading global luxury real estate developer renowned for innovation and building future-ready communities, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Keeta Drone, the pioneering green air delivery company, to introduce next-generation air delivery ecosystems across its integrated communities.
Through this strategic partnership, Sobha Realty becomes Keeta Drone’s first official Smart Community partner in the UAE, reinforcing its commitment to embedding future-ready infrastructure and sustainable technologies into the very fabric of its developments.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed between Sobha Realty and Keeta Drone in the presence of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA), marking a significant step forward in redefining how logistics and mobility are seamlessly integrated within premium residential environments.
Keeta Drone’s technology-driven delivery ecosystem is fully equipped to introduce faster; smarter and eco-conscious last-mile logistics designed around community convenience and operational safety. Integrated within government-approved frameworks, the initiative supports Sobha Realty’s vision of building future-ready communities where innovation enhances everyday resident experiences.
The partnership represents a natural progression toward Smart Community Vision, where infrastructure is designed not only to meet present-day expectations but to anticipate the needs of tomorrow, shaped by intelligent, adaptable solutions.
Leveraging its Backwards Integrated model, Sobha Realty is uniquely positioned to enable the safe, efficient and scalable deployment of air delivery networks within its communities. This capability allows for precise integration of advanced technologies while maintaining the highest standards of quality, setting a new benchmark for innovation-led residential experiences in the region.
The collaboration will be implemented in phases, with all activations operating within government-approved frameworks, underscoring both organisations’ commitment to safety, compliance, and responsible innovation.
Dr.Mao, President, Keeta Drone, said: “This partnership with Sobha Realty represents a defining moment for us. Our collective aim is to support communities that stand for quality, precision and long-term thinking – core values that are deeply embedded in our DNA. Together, we are not just signing an agreement; we are laying the foundation of what the future of urban living in the UAE looks like. We are proud to welcome Sobha Realty as our Smart Community Partner, enabling the future, and we look forward to bringing this vision to life for their residents across 2026 and beyond.”
Mr Francis Alfred, Managing Director, Sobha Realty, said: “At Sobha Realty, our vision of luxury extends beyond design and craftsmanship to the intelligent ecosystems that power everyday living. This partnership is not about introducing a new service; it’s about reimagining how communities’ function in a rapidly evolving urban landscape.
Our Backwards Integration model allows us to engineer and integrate such advanced technologies with precision, safety and long-term scalability. By collaborating with Keeta Drone, we are taking a decisive step towards building self-sustained, future-ready communities where innovation, sustainability, and convenience are seamlessly embedded into the resident experience. This is the next frontier of smart living, and Sobha Realty is proud to be leading it.”
H.E. Mohammed Abdulla Lengawi, Director General of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority (DCAA) said: “The Dubai Civil Aviation Authority is pleased to support the responsible advancement of air deliveries by Keeta Drone within the native community of Sobha Hartland, reflecting our commitment to embracing innovation that is beneficial to the city’s future mobility ecosystem in the Emirate of Dubai.”
Both Keeta Drone and Sobha Realty have also expressed their intention to explore opportunities beyond the UAE as Keeta Drone’s deployment roadmap grows and Sobha Realty continues its international expansion.
Hospitality
UBK AT MÖVENPICK JLT UNVEILS A MONTH-LONG LINE-UP OF SOCIAL NIGHTS, SIPS, AND SIGNATURE MOMENTS
UBK at Mövenpick Hotel Jumeirah Lakes Towers is turning up the energy with a month-long line-up of weekly themed nights designed for Dubai’s after-work crowd, weekend seekers, and everyone in between. Known for its laid-back vibe and bold personality, UBK brings together drinks, bites, games, and social experiences that give guests a reason to return throughout the month.
Ladies Night – Pour Decisions (Ladies Edition)
Tuesdays belong to the ladies. Enjoy and have fun, paired with a bite and UBK’s signature Between the Buns.
Quiz
Midweek gets competitive with UBK’s weekly quiz night. Roll up your sleeve and get ready for some fun!
P.E.T. – Pints, Eats & Tails
Sundays slow things down with a pet-friendly social where guests can bring their furry companions and unwind together over food and drinks.
Every Sunday | From 12 PM onwards
With something happening every day, UBK continues to stay true to its ethos of keeping things social, unpretentious, and full of personality. Whether it’s a quick after-work drink or a full weekend session, UBK is all set to keep the calendar booked and the glasses full.
Hospitality
MATCHA LOVERS, THIS ONE’S FOR YOU: COFFEE PLANET DROPS LIMITED-EDITION FLAVOURS

If your current obsession is anything matcha, you’ll want to get this on your radar. Homegrown UAE brand Coffee Planet is celebrating Matcha Month with the launch of three new iced drinks, and yes, they’re as good as they sound.
Say hello to Mango Matcha, Strawberry Matcha, and Pumpkin Spice Matcha, a mix of fruity, creamy, and subtly spiced flavours designed for peak Dubai sipping. Think vibrant green layers and pastel-toned iced drinks that are made for your Instagram feed.
Known for its no-fuss approach, Coffee Planet keeps it simple while always getting it right. With prices starting from AED 29 and availability across all UAE outlets, these are easy, go-to drinks whether you’re on a mid-mall stroll or ordering online.
The catch? These limited-edition drinks are only available throughout May, so consider this your sign to try them all before they’re gone.
Available at: All UAE outlets, including JVC Circle Mall, Dubai Hills (Business Park), Dubai Hills Mall, Foundry Downtown, Etihad Plaza, Fountain Views (Dubai Mall), among others, as well as online via Careem, Keeta, Deliveroo, Noon, and Talabat.
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