The spirit, colour and traditions of a Maldivian island Eid are set to reach audiences worldwide as Visit Maldives Corporation (VMC) prepares to deliver five days of live coverage from Raa Atoll Meedhoo during this year’s Eid celebrations.
Beginning on 26 May and continuing until 30 May, the tourism body will stream daily coverage across its social media platforms and digital channels, showcasing the cultural traditions and communal celebrations that define Eid in the Maldives.
The initiative forms part of a wider effort to promote the Maldives not only as a luxury travel destination, but also as a country shaped by its island communities, cultural heritage and longstanding traditions.
Throughout the coverage period, production teams will share live updates, feature stories and behind-the-scenes content from Raa Meedhoo, offering viewers an insight into customs that continue to play an important role in island life.
Among the traditions expected to feature prominently is "Vedhuma Dhiyun", a ceremonial practice in which groups of islanders seek permission from elders and community leaders before officially beginning Eid festivities. The custom is regarded as a reflection of the communal values and respect for tradition embedded within Maldivian society.
Another focal point will be "Bodu Mas", one of the country’s most recognisable Eid celebrations. Translating as “big fish” in Dhivehi, the tradition involves a giant fish-shaped structure woven from coconut palm leaves being carried through the island in a lively public procession, symbolising the Maldives’ deep connection to the sea.
The celebrations will also include "Maali Neshun", a traditional performance in which participants dress as mythical spirits and characters using handcrafted costumes made from coconut leaves and other local materials. Accompanied by the rhythmic beat of boduberu drums, the performances are known for transforming island streets into vibrant displays of music, dance and folklore.
Another major event, "Koadi Kendun", will showcase decorated wooden structures crafted from coconut palm materials in a celebration combining performance, artistic expression and community participation.
Speaking about the campaign, the Chief Executive and Managing Director of Visit Maldives Corporation, Ibrahim Shiuree, said preserving and promoting living traditions was an important part of strengthening the Maldives’ identity as a destination.
“The Maldives is shaped not only by its natural beauty, but also by the traditions, people and communities that continue to preserve our cultural identity,” he said.
“Through this campaign, we want global audiences to experience the warmth, creativity and spirit of a Maldivian island Eid in an authentic and meaningful way.”
Mr Shiuree also thanked the people of Raa Meedhoo, including the communities of Hulhangu Avah and Irumathi Avah, as well as the Raa Meedhoo Island Council, for supporting the initiative.
Following the live broadcasts, Visit Maldives plans to release a series of longer-form videos and cultural features on its YouTube platform from next month, including interviews and documentary-style storytelling centred on the island and its Eid celebrations.
The campaign reflects a broader shift in Maldivian tourism promotion towards highlighting local culture and community life alongside the country’s internationally recognised beaches and resorts.