Farooq Ibrahim (Gaadiya Beybe), Siyam World Maldives | MV+ People

“I’ve been at the resort for five years, but I’ve been running a gaadiyaa for over 30 years. The gaadiyaa is a very important part of our culture. It was one of the main sources of income for our predecessors and was once found everywhere in the Maldives. It’s an honest way to earn a living,” says Farooq Ibrahim.

Farooq Ibrahim, a 54-year-old gaadiya vendor, has spent the past five years at Siyam World Maldives, bringing with him more than three decades of experience.

Farooq said the idea of introducing a traditional gaadiya at Siyam World Maldives was proposed by the resort’s manager, Ausy Waseem, and director of marketing, Sara Siyam, who approached him to help create an authentic Maldivian experience for guests. Drawing on his decades of experience, he advised them on how to develop the concept. Today, he said, the gaadiya has become one of the resort’s most popular attractions and is recognised across Siyam World Maldives and other Siyam resorts.

He explained that when he first joined the resort, the gaadiya sold only fresh coconuts (kurumbaa), which he felt would not be enough to sustain the concept. Based on his recommendations, the offering gradually expanded to include traditional Maldivian favourites such as hedhikaa, maskaashi, dhiyaa hakuru, and mudi kaashi. The gaadiya now showcases a wide range of local produce, including fresh screwpine fruit, with the live demonstration of cutting and serving the fruit becoming a memorable experience for many guests.

Farooq said he hopes more resorts across the Maldives will establish gaadiyas to help preserve and promote Maldivian culture. He also encouraged young Maldivians to consider the trade, noting that their English language skills would allow them to better engage with international visitors and elevate the experience, helping introduce this uniquely Maldivian tradition to a global audience.