Interview with Mr. Ahmed Siaar, GM of Raakani Restaurant

Raakani is a luxurious restaurant in the Maldives that draws on the culinary riches of the seas and offers a breathtaking seafront dining experience for its 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 the Maldives, and the company’s intended future.  

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

Tell us a little bit about your journey as general manager at Raakani from the beginning to now?
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 have involved and improved immensely over the course of years, to offer an incredible fine dining experience to guests. 

How has the pandemic changed the hospitality industry in the Maldives?
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. 

How do you conceptualize Raakani?
Raakani is conceptualized as the ultimate beachfront dining experience. “Overlooking a glimmering sea, dine under a thatched pavilion while feasting on the fresh catch of the day, grilled meats, and seafood platters. “ 

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

How imperative is excellence in client service to Raakani?
Excellence in client service is of utmost importance at Raakani. Like 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. 

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

What is most rewarding about working in your industry?
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. 

How are your bookings looking for 2022?
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! 

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

What are your main values at Raakani?
Raakani’s values are those of Hospitality, Authenticity, and Excellence. 

Lastly, how do you feel about winning a Luxury Lifestyle Award?
I am truly honored that our fine dining Restaurant, Raakani, has received this international recognition. 

About Luxury Lifestyle Awards | Luxury Lifestyle Awards is a global award selecting, recognizes, celebrates, and promotes the best luxury goods and services all over the world. The goal of the company is to connect people with the best of luxury. LLA has evaluated more than 10 000 various goods and services in 400 categories from 60 countries and analyzed the results to give you a TOP list of the best of the best in the world. Such world-renowned brands as Chanel, Dom Perignon, and Ferrari were proudly named winners. The victory brings companies status and recognition, global promotion, and exposure to an entirely new market of customers. 

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