Sun Siyam Vilu Reef Unveils New Ocean Signature Villas, Marking Major Resort Transformation

Sun Siyam Vilu Reef has officially unveiled its new Ocean Signature Villas with Pool and Slide, marking the most significant enhancement to the resort in recent years and ushering in a new chapter for the iconic Maldivian property.

The launch was announced during the exclusive A New Rhythm of the Reef event held on 15 June, attended by members of the media, industry partners and invited guests. The unveiling was led by Sun Siyam Founder, Chairman and Managing Director, Ahmed Siyam Mohamed, who introduced the resort’s latest collection of luxury overwater accommodations.

The development comprises 50 newly built overwater villas, including 48 one-bedroom villas and two two-bedroom residences, collectively branded as the Ocean Signature Villas with Pool and Slide. The new accommodation category represents Sun Siyam Vilu Reef’s most ambitious villa transformation to date, combining contemporary design, elevated guest experiences and signature Maldivian hospitality.

Positioned over the lagoon, the villas offer panoramic ocean views and are designed to cater to both couples and families. Features include private pools, expansive sun decks, overwater hammocks, integrated pantries, open-plan bathrooms with freestanding bathtubs and dual vanities, as well as a distinctive 11-metre water slide providing direct access to the lagoon.

Speaking at the launch, Hon. Ahmed Siyam Mohamed highlighted the significance of the development for the resort and the wider Sun Siyam portfolio.

“Sun Siyam Vilu Reef is where the Sun Siyam story began, so this moment is especially meaningful for us. As we enter a new chapter, our focus remains simple: creating exceptional experiences while staying true to the warmth and hospitality that define who we are,” he said.

To realise the project, Sun Siyam partnered with London-based interior design firm Studio Sixty7, led by founders and creative directors Lee McNichol and Jose Rivero. The design concept draws inspiration from the surrounding marine environment, incorporating natural materials, sculpted forms and a refined colour palette intended to reflect the serenity of the Maldives.

According to the designers, the interiors balance minimalist aesthetics with bold architectural elements, featuring white timber-panelled walls, deep blue ceilings, bespoke timber joinery and locally produced artwork that reinforces a strong sense of place.

“Studio Sixty7’s vision for this new luxury overwater villa balances calm minimalism with bold expression. The result is a refined, immersive escape that feels both tranquil and distinctive,” McNichol and Rivero said.

Masdhooq Saeed, Cluster General Manager of Sun Siyam Vilu Reef and Sun Siyam Iru Veli, described the villas as a distinctive addition to the Maldives’ luxury hospitality sector.

“Our goal was to create something truly beyond exceptional. Working alongside award-winning creative minds, we are debuting a series of overwater signature villas that possess a completely renewed soul and appearance,” he said. “Each villa has been meticulously designed to serve as an immersive sanctuary where innovative design meets the timeless beauty of the surrounding ocean.”

The unveiling of the Ocean Signature Villas reinforces Sun Siyam Vilu Reef’s position within the group’s Privé Collection and reflects the company’s continued investment in enhancing its guest experience. Located on the private island of Meedhuffushi in South Nilandhe Atoll, the resort remains one of the flagship properties within the Sun Siyam portfolio and a key part of the group’s hospitality legacy.

With the introduction of the new villas, Sun Siyam Vilu Reef aims to offer guests a contemporary interpretation of luxury island living while remaining rooted in the authentic Maldivian spirit that has defined the resort since its inception.