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SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS TO OPEN SIX DISTINCT RESORTS IN THE MALDIVES OVER SIX YEARS

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SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS introduces a new philosophy of island hospitality. Co-founder and CEO Laith Pharaon, a seasoned hotelier and investor, launched the company in 2024 with a bold, lifestyle-led vision. Over the next six years, the brand will unveil six individually designed private island resorts each a distinct destination shaped by a shared ethos: presence, authenticity, and meaningful connection. The journey begins in 2026 with RAH GILI MALDIVES and DON MAAGA MALDIVES, both located in the South Malé Atoll, just a short speedboat ride from Velana International Airport.

Rather than follow the tropes of luxury hospitality, SIX & SIX recentres the guest experience around presence — removing noise to make space for something deeper. Guests are given the freedom to design their own journey, supported by wellness specialists, creative thinkers, and cultural experiences tailored to how they wish to feel — not just what they wish to do.

“SIX & SIX is about giving guests the most meaningful luxuries: time, space, and the freedom to just be,” says Laith Pharaon. “We’re not interested in replicating what already exists. This is about reimagining what luxury in the Maldives can feel like — intuitive, intentional, and personal.”

A Culture Rooted in the People of the Islands

At the heart of the brand’s culture is a philosophy drawn from the Maldives itself known as Rayyithun, meaning People of the Islands in Dhivehi. This is more than a concept. It is a living rhythm that shapes how each island is built, led, and experienced. From the fishermen who bring the day’s catch, to the builders who carve each space by hand, to the drummers who carry the island’s pulse — the Rayyithun are the quiet architects of island life.

Their presence flows through every SIX & SIX resort in its design language, cultural programme, and approach to care. This is most clearly embodied in the Edhurun programme, a reimagining of the traditional butler. Edhurun, meaning mentor, reflects a form of service that is intuitive, respectful, and grounded in care. But more than that, the Edhurun are storytellers — guardians of island knowledge who bring depth and meaning to the guest journey through quiet narrative, ritual, and presence.

Introducing the First Two Islands

RAH GILI MALDIVES — opening February 2026 — is located beside a protected dolphin sanctuary. With 74 villas, including 37 overwater, the resort blends bold design with whimsical details and vibrant social spaces. It is the first island to fully express the Rayyithun philosophy — a story-led destination where stillness, culture, and connection converge.

DON MAAGA MALDIVES, launching in late 2026, is the brand’s ultra-luxury flagship. Featuring the signature TERRA∞ beach villas and AETHR∞ overwater villas — some exceeding 1,500 sqm — it offers unapologetic scale paired with architectural restraint. Select villas feature both saltwater and freshwater pools, alongside open courtyards, semi-precious inlays, and serene private zones crafted for deep restoration. The island also introduces HIRIGAA, an invitation-only private island for full-island takeovers.

“Each island stands on its own — with its own energy, its own soul,” says Marc Gussing, SIX & SIX PRIVATE ISLANDS Director of Operations. “What unites them is not uniformity, but intention. Our role is to protect that individuality while shaping a guest experience that feels grounded, generous, and quietly unforgettable.”

SIX & SIX PRIVATE RESIDENCES

SIX & SIX PRIVATE RESIDENCES are a natural extension of the brand’s philosophy — offering a way to return not just for a season, but for a lifetime. Available across every island, beginning with RAH GILI and DON MAAGA, these residences invite individuals and families to become part of the island’s rhythm — not as guests, but as stewards of place. With access to all resort experiences, services, and cultural programming, each residence is shaped for those who seek continuity, presence, and a deeper sense of belonging within the SIX & SIX constellation.

Designed for Conscious Living

Every SIX & SIX resort is conceived with purpose — from design and storytelling to sustainability and social impact. The brand is pursuing EarthCheck certification for each island, integrating solar power, zero single-use plastics, desalination with in-house bottling, and regenerative marine conservation. A strong focus is placed on community partnerships, local materials, and guest education — all embedded into the operating rhythm from day one.

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Hospitality

The Best Festive Turkey Takeaways in Abu Dhabi This Christmas

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Christmas dinner without the hours in the kitchen? Yes, please! From perfectly roasted turkeys with all the traditional trimmings to indulgent festive sides and delicious desserts, some of Abu Dhabi’s finest hotels and restaurants are taking care of the cooking this Christmas. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or planning a cosy celebration at home, these festive turkey takeaway offers make it easy to serve up a memorable Christmas feast without the fuss. Here’s our pick of the best turkey takeaways in Abu Dhabi for Christmas 2026.

Hawksbill Restaurant Festive Turkey Takeaway

Bring Christmas home with Hawksbill Restaurant’s Festive Turkey Takeaway, freshly prepared for an easy festive gathering around the table. Whether planning Christmas lunch with the family, hosting friends over the festive period, or simply leaving the cooking to someone else this year, the takeaway brings together everything needed for a classic Christmas feast.

A whole roast turkey comes with a selection of traditional seasonal sides and all the trimmings, ready to collect and serve at home.

Price: AED 599 (serves 6 to 8). AED 35 per additional side. Member discounts apply. Advance booking is required.

When: Saturday, 21 November 2026 to Thursday, 31st December 2026, 12pm – 11pm

For more info, call +971 56 660 8780 or email fnb.sbgc@viyagolf.com

The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal, Festive Turkey Takeaway

Bring The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal to the Christmas table with a festive turkey prepared by the hotel’s culinary team and ready to enjoy at home. The whole roasted turkey comes with traditional stuffing, rich gravy, and roasted root vegetables, leaving more time to spend around the table with family and friends.

Available from Monday, 21 December 2026, to Saturday, 2 January 2027, orders should be placed at least 48 hours in advance.

Price: AED 750 per turkey hamper (serves 6 to 8)

When: Monday, 21 December 2026, to Sunday, 2 January 2027. Orders must be placed 48 hours in advance
For reservations, call +971 2 818 8203 or email abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com

Villa Sèléne Festive Turkey Takeaway

Take care of Christmas lunch with Villa Sèléne at Yas Links Abu Dhabi’s Festive Turkey Takeaway. Prepared by the culinary team and ready for collection, the whole roast turkey comes with a selection of classic festive sides and accompaniments, leaving little more to do than gather family and friends around the table and enjoy it together.

Price: AED 599 (serves 6 to 8); AED 35 per additional side. Member discounts apply. Advance booking is required

When: Saturday, 21 November 2026 to Thursday, 31 December 2026, 12pm – 11pm

For more info, call +971 54 990 4246 or email villa.selene@viyagolf.com


Roots Bar & Kitchen Festive Turkey Takeaway

Bring the festive feast home with Roots Bar & Kitchen’s Festive Turkey Takeaway, made for Christmas gatherings with family and friends. Serving approximately six to eight guests, the package includes a generous 5-6 kg whole roast turkey, freshly prepared and ready for collection, alongside all the classic trimmings.

The turkey comes with chestnut stuffing, seasonal vegetables, roasted carrots and potatoes, cranberry sauce, and turkey gravy for a traditional Christmas spread at home. For a little extra around the table, additional sides can be added to the order, including herb and bread stuffing, bread sauce, mashed potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and more.

Price: AED 599 (serves 6 to 8); AED 35 per additional side. Member discounts apply. Orders must be placed at least 48 hours in advance
When: Monday, 21 November 2026 to Thursday, 31 December 2026, 12pm – 10pm

For more info, call +971 50 757 4808 or email dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com

InterContinental Abu Dhabi Festive Turkey Takeaway
Take the stress out of Christmas entertaining with a traditional festive turkey, freshly prepared by the culinary team at InterContinental Abu Dhabi. Available to order from either the hotel or residences, the generous whole roasted turkey (5–7kg) comes with all the classic accompaniments, including traditional bread stuffing, roasted baby potatoes, buttered seasonal vegetables, rich turkey gravy, and cranberry sauce. For a sweet finish, guests can add a pumpkin cheesecake, apple cinnamon pie or pecan and caramel tart, each serving approximately five to six people.

Price: AED 550 per whole roasted turkey (5–7kg) and accompaniments; optional desserts: Pumpkin Cheesecake AED 200, Apple Cinnamon Pie AED 180, Pecan & Caramel Tart AED 230. Orders must be placed at least 48 hours in advance.
When: Thursday, 26 November 2026, to Friday, 25 December 2026.
For InterContinental Abu Dhabi Hotel turkey takeaways, order and collect from Piano Lounge; for InterContinental Residences Abu Dhabi turkey takeaways, order and collect from Bistro 81. For more information or bookings call Piano Lounge +971 56 409 4980 or Bistro 81 +971 50 391 5271

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Hospitality

Qatar Airways Connects Doha to Caracas, Venezuela, and Bogotá, Colombia with First Flight

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Qatar Airways has inaugurated its new twice-weekly service connecting Doha with Caracas and Bogotá. The service represents a significant milestone for the airline, as Qatar Airways becomes the first Gulf carrier to serve Venezuela, and the first airline to operate nonstop services from the Middle East to both Bogotá and Caracas.

The new route underscores the airline’s commitment to strengthening global connectivity for the region and is operated on Boeing 777-200LR aircraft.

Qatar Airways flights to Caracas (CCS) and Bogotá (BOG)

Qatar Airways’ flight schedule has been designed to provide smooth onward connections through Hamad International Airport to key markets including Australia, China, Japan, Lebanon, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. This offers passengers greater flexibility and seamless transfer options across Qatar Airways’ global network of over 170 destinations.

Departing every Wednesday and Sunday:

Doha (DOH) to Bogotá (BOG) – Flight QR783: Departure 07:35; Arrival 16:25

Bogotá (BOG) to Caracas (CCS) – Flight QR783: Departure 17:55; Arrival 21:00

Caracas (CCS) to Doha (DOH) – Flight QR783: Departure 23:30; Arrival 20:35

The addition of Caracas and Bogotá marks the 16th and 17th destinations in the Americas served by Qatar Airways. The airline began serving South America in 2010 with its inaugural flight to Brazil’s São Paulo.

The airline has recently expanded its partnership with LATAM to include LATAM Airlines Colombia, offering travellers greater access to the region. Qatar Airways will place its code on LATAM-operated flights between Bogotá and key domestic destinations including Cartagena, Armenia, Barranquilla, Bucaramanga, Cali, Cúcuta, Ibagué, Leticia, Medellín, Montería, Neiva, Pereira, Pasto, Riohacha, San Andrés Island, Santa Marta, and Yopal.

Qatar Airways continues to strengthen global connectivity, serving more than 170 destinations this winter. Bookings can be made at qatarairways.com or through the airline’s mobile app.

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GET INTO THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT: THE BEST FESTIVE ACTIVITIES IN ABU DHABI

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Christmas is coming, and Abu Dhabi is getting ready to celebrate! From magical Christmas tree-lighting ceremonies and a charming festive market to gingerbread house decorating, breakfast with Santa, and an indulgent festive afternoon tea, there’s plenty to look forward to this December. Whether you’re planning a fun family outing, a festive afternoon with friends or simply looking to soak up a little Christmas cheer, here are some of the best festive activities to add to your calendar this season.

Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at InterContinental Abu Dhabi

Christmas celebrations begin at InterContinental Abu Dhabi on 9 December with the hotel’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony. Bringing families and friends together for a festive waterfront evening, this much-loved tradition sets the scene for the celebrations ahead.

When: Wednesday, 9 December 2026, 5:30pm
Price: Complimentary
Where: Marina Garden, InterContinental Abu Dhabi

Christmas Tree Lighting and Festive Buffet at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club
Celebrate the start of the festive season with the Christmas Tree Lighting at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, bringing family and friends together for a warm evening of Christmas cheer. Watch as the tree lights up for the season while enjoying a festive buffet, festive fun with Santa and a lively atmosphere made for all ages.

With plenty of time to dine, celebrate, and soak up the festivities, it’s an easy way to get into the Christmas spirit and enjoy a little seasonal magic with the whole family.

When: Friday, 11 December 2026, 7pm – 10pm
Price: AED 219 per person (soft package); AED 344 per person (house package); AED 69 per child (aged 5 to 12 years). Free for kids under 5.
Where: Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island

Christmas Tree Lighting and Festive BBQ Buffet at Yas Links Abu Dhabi

The festive season begins on the lawn at Yas Links Abu Dhabi, as the Christmas tree lights up for an evening with family and friends. A BBQ buffet sets the table for the celebrations, accompanied by festive entertainment and activities for younger guests. With the lawns of Yas Links as the backdrop, it’s a relaxed evening of good food, Christmas cheer, and time spent together.

When: Friday, 18 December 2026, 7pm – 10pm

Price: AED 219 per person (soft package); AED 344 per person (house package); AED 69 per child (aged 6 to 12 years); Free (kids under 6 years). Member discounts apply. Advance booking is required

Where: Yas Links Abu Dhabi Lawn, Yas Links, Yas Island

Christmas Tree Lighting and Festive Buffet at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club
Christmas celebrations begin at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club with the annual Christmas Tree Lighting, bringing family and friends together for an evening outdoors. Guests can gather for the official lighting of the tree before enjoying a festive buffet, Christmas music, and seasonal entertainment.

Younger guests can look forward to dedicated activities throughout the evening, while families and friends have plenty of time to catch up over dinner. A much-loved annual tradition, the Christmas tree lighting marks the start of the festive calendar at Saadiyat Beach Golf Club.

When: Saturday, 19 December 2026, from 7pm

Price: AED 219 per person (soft package); AED 344 per person (house package); AED 69 per child (aged 6 to 12 years); Free (kids under 6 years)

Where: Saadiyat Beach Golf Club Lobby, Saadiyat Island

For more info, call +971 56 660 8780 or email fnb.sbgc@viyagolf.com

Festive Market by the Marina
This festive season, the Marina Garden at InterContinental Abu Dhabi transforms into a charming Christmas market over two consecutive weekends, bringing a little festive magic to the waterfront. Wander between stalls filled with Christmas gifts, handmade crafts and festive treats; pick up something special from local vendors; or enjoy a glass of mulled wine and seasonal favourites as live acoustic music sets the mood. With twinkling lights, festive flavours and plenty for all ages to enjoy, it’s a lovely way to spend an afternoon or evening by the marina with family and friends.

When: Friday, 11 December 2026, to Sunday, 13 December 2026, and Friday, 18 December 2026, to Sunday, 20 December 2026
Where: Marina Garden, InterContinental Abu Dhabi

For more information, call +971 55 242 0542

Festive High Tea at Alba
Set beneath the soaring ceilings of the lobby lounge, Alba’s Festive High Tea adds a festive flourish to the hotel’s signature afternoon ritual. Delicate savoury and sweet treats are served alongside each guest’s preferred tea blend, with seasonal aromas adding to the occasion. An afternoon designed for conversation, celebration, and the pleasure of sharing something special in the days leading up to Christmas.

When: Available daily from Tuesday, 15 December 2026, to Wednesday, 6 January 2027, 2pm – 5pm
Price: AED 190 per stand
Where: Alba, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

For reservations, call +971 2 818 8203 or email abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com

Gingerbread House Decorating at Giornotte
Young guests can put their creativity to work at Giornotte with a Christmas activity made for little hands. Guided by the hotel’s pastry chefs, children will decorate their own gingerbread houses with candy canes, cookies and marshmallows before taking their creation home – a cherished festive tradition given their own creative touch.

Gingerbread House Decorating: AED 200 per gingerbread house. Available daily from Tuesday, 15 December 2026, to Tuesday, 5 January 2027, excluding Friday, 25 and Thursday, 31 December 2026. Advance booking is required.

For reservations, call +971 2 818 8203 or email abudhabi.restaurants@ritzcarlton.com

Breakfast with Santa


Start the festive celebrations with a family breakfast at Acres Grill House, complete with a special visit from Santa. Guests can enjoy a breakfast buffet with a selection of beverages before little ones get the chance to meet Santa and stop for a Christmas photo together.

Music and live entertainment will set the mood throughout the morning, while dedicated children’s activities offer plenty to keep younger guests busy. Made for the whole family to enjoy, it’s an easy way to spend a December morning together as Christmas Day draws closer.

FACT BOX:
What: Breakfast with Santa
Offer: AED 99 per adult; AED 60 per child (aged 6 to 12 years); free (kids under 6 years).
When: Sunday, 20 December, 9am to 12pm
Where: Roots Bar & Kitchen, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island
For more info, call +971 50 757 4808 or email dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com

Gingerbread House Workshop


Little ones can get creative this Christmas with a festive Gingerbread House Workshop at Grill House, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club. Each child will receive their own gingerbread house to decorate with icing, sprinkles and plenty of imagination, while hot chocolate, festive cookies, Christmas music and a little festive cheer from Santa add to the occasion. Designed as a fun afternoon for the whole family, the workshop gives children the chance to create their very own festive masterpiece and enjoy a little Christmas magic along the way.

FACT BOX:
What: Gingerbread House Workshop
Offer: AED 120 per child. Pre payment and pre booking is required.
When: Sunday, 13th December, 3pm to 5pm
Where: Acres Grill House, Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Yas Island
For more info, call +971 50 757 4808 or email dining.yagcc@viyagolf.com

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