Mr. Abdulla Mufeed, Assistant General Manager at SAii Lagoon Maldives, Curio Collection by Hilton, His story reflects the real spirit of the Maldives genuine kindness, simplicity, and deep care for people.
He talks about staying humble, consistent, and people-focused, the calm of island life, and the importance of wellness, community, and multicultural teamwork. Looking ahead, he dreams of a sustainable Maldives that stays true to its roots and is committed to guiding a confident new generation of Maldivian hospitality leaders.
Please share with us about your early journey. What aspirations or inspirations guided you toward the hospitality and guest experience field?
From a young age, I was inspired by my grandfather, a well-known chief carpenter who built boats for our community. His warmth toward every visitor whether from our island or elsewhere left a deep impression on me. The simple joy he showed in welcoming people and making them feel at home truly shaped my understanding of hospitality. Growing up in the Maldives one of the world’s leading hospitality destinations I naturally admired the professionals who created memorable experiences for visitors from around the globe. This curiosity grew into a passion, and I realized that hospitality was not just a job, but a way to connect with people, share our culture, and create meaningful moments. That passion guided my early journey and continues to drive me every day.
What qualities or habits have been key to your personal growth and success?
I believe consistency, humility, and a genuine commitment to people have shaped my progress. I always focus on learning whether from leaders, colleagues, or guests. I also value punctuality, teamwork, and leading by example. Most importantly, I stay grounded, treat everyone with respect, and continuously push myself to grow with every challenge.
From your local perspective, what makes the Maldives truly special beyond its natural beauty?
For me, the heart of the Maldives is its people. Our kindness, hospitality, and strong sense of community make this country more than just a postcard-perfect destination. It’s a place where guests feel safe, welcomed, and connected. Our culture, our simplicity, and our warm spirit make the Maldives unique far beyond its turquoise waters.
How does the Maldivian environment support mindfulness and well-being for visitors?
The Maldives naturally encourages people to slow down and reconnect with themselves. The sound of the ocean, the rhythm of island life, and the peaceful surroundings all create a powerful space for mindfulness. Guests often tell me that simply being here helps them feel lighter, more balanced, and more present. The environment itself promotes healing, calmness, and emotional clarity. Simple rejuvenation
You’re actively driving health, wellness, sports, and entertainment initiatives. Why are these areas important to you?
For me, wellness and sports build healthy bodies and healthy minds. They bring people together, create positivity, and inspire a strong team spirit. Entertainment, on the other hand, adds energy and joy to our everyday operations. These areas are important because they improve guest satisfaction, strengthen staff morale, and create a vibrant working environment. When the team feels good, guests naturally feel it too.
How do Maldivian cultural values shape the way people work and lead?
Maldivian culture is rooted in hospitality, respect, humility, and community support. These values influence our leadership styles leaders here tend to be approachable, compassionate, and team-oriented. We believe in taking care of one another and working as a family. This cultural foundation creates workplaces that value cooperation, trust, and long-term relationships.
What’s one experience or hidden spot you always recommend to guests to feel the real Maldives?
I always recommend guests take a moment to explore our underwater garden; it can be by snorkeling or diving. Furthermore watching sunset from your villa or on the beach with the dolphin shows are very common here in the Maldives. This is always extend engagements with artisans gives us a deeper connection to who we are. A sunset fishing trip or a quiet sandbank experience also reveals the true soul of the Maldives simple, peaceful, and incredibly warm.
How can individuals and businesses contribute meaningfully to sustainability in the Maldives?
Sustainability starts with small daily actions reducing waste, conserving energy, and respecting marine life. Businesses must invest in eco-friendly practices, support local communities, and educate both staff and guests about environmental responsibility. Individuals can contribute by minimizing plastic use, supporting local products, and protecting our reefs. When everyone plays a role, the impact becomes powerful.
What have you learned from working with multicultural teams?
Working with people from different backgrounds has taught me empathy, adaptability, and open-mindedness. It has shown me that great ideas come from diversity and that teamwork grows stronger when we respect each other’s differences. I’ve learned to listen more, understand different perspectives, and lead in a way that brings everyone together toward a common goal.
What is your personal dream for the future of the Maldives and your own role in it?
My dream is to see the Maldives continue to thrive as a world leader in hospitality sustainable, innovative, and deeply connected to its culture. For myself, I hope to contribute to building a stronger generation of Maldivian hospitality professionals who can lead with confidence and pride. I want to play a role in shaping the country’s global image and ensuring our unique identity remains at the heart of our growth.
Thank you, Mr. Abdulla Mufeed, for sharing your journey and wisdom with such openness and heart. Your reflections remind us how genuine hospitality begins with people, culture, and purpose. We truly appreciate your time, your insight, and your dedication to shaping the future of Maldivian hospitality. It’s been a pleasure learning from you and sharing your story with thewellnesstrip.
This is really an amazing and inspiring insights from a thought leader who is positivley helping his colleagues and peers and also leading servent leadership qualities at all time. Mr. A.Mufyd, please keep on Inspiring the world ❤️.
Vincent Baby
December 10, 2025 at 1:40 pmThis is really an amazing and inspiring insights from a thought leader who is positivley helping his colleagues and peers and also leading servent leadership qualities at all time. Mr. A.Mufyd, please keep on Inspiring the world ❤️.
srinivas sailada
December 11, 2025 at 9:40 amInspiring and proactive towards the country and next generation.jai Hind ..