Mohamed Haidhar (Haiday), Director of Engineering at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort | MV+ People

Mohamed Haidhar (Haiday) serves as Director of Engineering at Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, a role shaped by years of hands-on experience and early dedication to the trade. His journey into engineering began on his home island, where, while still in school, he took on electrical and mechanical work for local households and community members.

Haidhar officially entered the hospitality industry at Chaaya Ellaidhoo—now Ellaidhoo Maldives by Cinnamon—starting as a mechanic. His early career involved physically demanding work, including dismantling and overhauling boat engines. He later moved between several resorts, steadily expanding his expertise, before joining Conrad Maldives, where he worked as a jacuzzi technician and earned the nickname “Jakey” among colleagues.

Reflecting on his path, Haidhar said “I first started working on my island during my school years by doing electrical work in homes. As my interest in the field grew, I chose a related subject and began my studies at the Maldives Institute of Technology (MIT). For those considering this career, it is a highly rewarding field, including in terms of income. Although few people choose this profession, I hope to see at least 60 to 80 percent of the industry made up of Maldivians in the future.”

At Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort, Haidhar explained that the engineering team plays a critical role in ensuring guest comfort. Each room undergoes a detailed maintenance checklist, covering all electrical systems and water supply, before being handed over to housekeeping. Only after these checks are completed are rooms released for guest occupancy—a process he described as central to the team’s operational philosophy.

Sustainability, Haidhar emphasised, remains the department’s primary focus. From water and energy conservation to waste management, carbon emission reduction, and minimising single-use plastics, the resort sets annual sustainability targets aimed at continuous improvement. These practices, he added, are integrated throughout the resort, benefiting both guests and staff alike.