Raakani is a luxurious restaurant in the Maldives which draws on the culinary riches of the seas and offers a breathtaking seafront dining experience for their guests. They have recently been recognized by the experts at Luxury Lifestyle Awards for Best Luxury Dining Experience in the Maldives. We spoke with Mr. Ahmed Siaar, General Manager of Raakani, about Raakani’s philosophy, the state of the hospitality industry in Maldives, and the company’s intended future.  

Luxury Lifestyle Awards: Thanks for taking the time to meet with us Mr. Siaar. Tell us about the current hospitality industry in the Maldives?  

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: The hospitality industry in The Maldives has bounced back, and it is fantastic to witness things as they were, pre-pandemic. We re-opened in November 2020 and since then, have been incredibly busy welcoming different nationalities to our exquisite little island.    

LLA: Tell us a little bit about your journey as general manager at Raakani from the beginning to now? 

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: Being the General Manager of Fushifaru Maldives is an immense responsibility that brings me so much joy. Our Boutique Resort has come far, and so has our fine-dining restaurant Raakani. Although Raakani’s setting remains the same, the menu and concept of the Restaurant has involved and improved immensely over the course of years, to offer an incredible fine dining experience to guests. 

LLA: How has the pandemic changed the hospitality industry in Maldives? 

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: As previously mentioned, even though we have somewhat recovered from the pandemic, it will forever teach us a lesson to always be prepared and to be flexible to change. One thing that I am happy about is that the Fushifaru Team has remained the same, with many faces from before the pandemic. Despite the challenges, we’ve succeeded to maintain the team spirit and keep morale high. 

LLA: How do you conceptualize Raakani? 

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: Raakani is conceptualized as the ultimate beachfront dining experience. “Overlooking a glimmering sea, dine under a thatched pavilion while feasting on fresh catch of the day, grilled meats and seafood platters. “ 

LLA: Who or what was the inspiration behind Raakani’s aesthetic and menu? 

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: Raakani draws on the culinary riches of the seas and offers a spectacular seafront dining experience. The inspiration behind Raalani’s aesthetic and menu is quite simple: the sea! 

LLA: How imperative is excellence in client service to Raakani? 

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: Excellence in client service is of utmost importance at Raakani. As the fine dining destination on the island, it is imperative that unparalleled service wows our guests as they indulge in a feast with their feet in the sand. 

LLA: How do you accomplish such a high-ranking level of service at Raakani? 

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: Through hiring talent across the globe and training and building up our Fushifaru Residents with our core values as well as the principles of excellent service.  

LLA: What is most rewarding about working in your industry? 

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: The most rewarding thing for me is building a fantastic team spirit and culture for our Residents, making sure they are happy and fulfilled in their jobs and that they themselves feel at home on our exquisite island. I believe that is the secret to the best service in the hospitality industry. 

LLA: How are your bookings looking for 2022? 

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: Bookings are flying in for 2022. We are expecting a calmer low season, so we can relax a little in time for the busy festive season, which is already fully booked! 

LLA: What future projections do you see for Raakani’s development? 

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: Raakani’s development will surely be an exciting one from here onwards. We are looking forward to experimenting with different ideas, exploring different menus and expanding our culinary offerings. 

LLA: What are your main values at Raakani? 

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: Raakani’s values are those of Hospitality, Authenticity and Excellence. 

LLA: Lastly, how do you feel about winning a Luxury Lifestyle Award? 

Mr. Ahmed Siaar: I am truly honoured that our fine dining Restaurant, Raakani, has received this international recognition.