Sun Siyam Vilu Reef celebrated its 28th anniversary from 28 to 30 October 2026 with A New Rhythm of the Reef, a three-day programme of live music, visiting culinary talent and wellness experiences. The celebrations also marked the debut of YAYA Beach Club and offered guests a special preview of Tuscany, ahead of the Italian restaurant’s official opening on 15 November 2026.
From performances by international DJs and Chinese vocalist Zhu Zhihao to Italian cooking with Chef Fatjon Goga and guided wellness sessions, the anniversary programme brought a different energy to the island each day.
Opening Celebrations: Music, Performance and Italian Gastronomy
The festivities began on 28 October at YAYA Beach Club, where British-born creative duo The Flag Twins, Kevin and Karl, performed alongside DJ Abee. Founders of the London-based music collective HE&D, the twins are known for bringing together house music, fashion and creative expression, with collaborations spanning brands such as Gucci, Armani and Calvin Klein.
The culinary spotlight then moved to Tuscany for a special anniversary preview dinner hosted by Chef Fatjon Goga. The Albanian-born Italian chef has worked in renowned kitchens including Don Alfonso and Arnolfo and, since 2022, has led Osteria Grande in Arezzo’s historic Piazza Grande. His cooking draws on Tuscan traditions, seasonal ingredients and contemporary techniques.
Chinese vocalist Zhu Zhihao, whose performances have included appearances on CCTV’s Global Chinese Music Chart and Avenue of Stars, provided live entertainment during the dinner while DJ Molly D rounded off the opening day with an Island Beats session.
A Second Day Dedicated to Wellness and Culinary Discovery
On 29 October, the celebrations shifted towards slower-paced experiences. Visiting practitioner Nour Montasser led sound healing, while Maryna Pavlenko guided guests through slow-living conversations and movement, encouraging mindfulness and reconnection. A healthy breakfast and coffee DJ set by Molly D brought a musical element to the morning.
In the evening, Chef Goga returned to Tuscany for an interactive pasta masterclass and dinner. Through hands-on preparation and discussion of Italian ingredients and techniques, guests explored the culinary heritage behind the new restaurant’s concept.
“For me, Italian cuisine is about respecting ingredients, celebrating tradition and bringing people together around the table,” shared Chef Goga.
Lagoon Wellness and Beach Club Finale
The final day, 30 October, opened with yoga and sound healing led by Maryna Pavlenko and Nour Montasser. The wellness programme continued in the lagoon with stand-up paddleboard yoga guided by Wu Feifei, known as Fay-Yoga, a former lululemon brand ambassador and AquaX Academy instructor, alongside Wang Xue of the AquaX team.
Later, guests enjoyed a Float & Feast experience accompanied by live music from Zhu Zhihao. The afternoon then moved to YAYA Beach Club for a finale pool party with DJs Abee and Molly D, before Chef Goga hosted an evening of culinary storytelling at Tuscany. A final Island Beats performance featuring The Flag Twins and DJ Abee brought the three-day celebrations to a close.
“Rather than organising a traditional anniversary party, we created a three-day journey combining music, gastronomy and wellness,” said Masdhooq Saeed, General Manager of Sun Siyam Vilu Reef.
The resort’s Operations Manager highlighted the teamwork behind the programme: “Our aim is for guests to experience a seamless celebration, where everything feels relaxed and natural.”
Opening of YAYA Beach Club and Tuscany
Introduced as one of Sun Siyam’s Signature Experiences, YAYA Beach Club combines relaxed beachfront dining, poolside refreshments, music and sunset gatherings. Envisioned as a vibrant beachfront destination, the venue will also introduce monthly Full Moon Soirées, visiting DJs and special events, bringing fresh experiences to the island.
Tuscany, meanwhile, will officially open on 15 November 2026, following its special anniversary preview and culinary programme. The restaurant will introduce Italian cuisine inspired by traditional flavours and warm hospitality. Guests may enjoy one dining experience pser stay, with a 50% discount on food for subsequent visits.
“As we celebrate 28 years of Sun Siyam Vilu Reef, we are also looking towards the next chapter of the island. As the first resort in the Sun Siyam portfolio, Vilu Reef has a special place in our history, and our ambition is to continue evolving while preserving the intimate atmosphere and genuine Maldivian hospitality that our guests have come to love.
“Following the introduction of our new Ocean Signature Villas earlier this year, YAYA Beach Club and Tuscany represent another important step in this journey. YAYA brings a fresh social energy to the island through music, dining and shared experiences, while Tuscany introduces the warmth and simplicity of Italian hospitality.
“Together, they reflect our vision of creating more meaningful and memorable experiences, giving guests new ways to enjoy the island while remaining true to the character of Vilu Reef,” shared Masdhooq Saeed, General Manager of Sun Siyam Vilu Reef.
The three-day anniversary celebrations brought together international artists, acclaimed culinary talents and wellness practitioners, offering guests an exciting programme of entertainment and experiences alongside the unveiling of YAYA Beach Club and Tuscany.