Atmosphere Core has ended 2025 on a strong note with three wins at the Layalina Editor’s Choice Awards 2025. RAAYA by Atmosphere, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives, and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi were each recognised for delivering distinct resort experiences while maintaining consistent standards of quality, comfort, and guest satisfaction.

At the awards, RAAYA by Atmosphere was named Best New Luxury Resort of the Year - Maldives. Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives received the title of Best All-Inclusive Luxury Resort, and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi was honoured as Most Stylish Resort - Maldives. The awards are based on Layalina’s independent editorial review and quality benchmarks, celebrating excellence across luxury hospitality, all-inclusive offerings, and lifestyle-driven design. Layalina is a leading Arab lifestyle publication under 7awi Media Group, with strong reach across the GCC and the wider region.

Each of the three resorts brings its own character to the portfolio. RAAYA by Atmosphere, located in the Raa Atoll, is known for its peaceful setting and unique castaway-artist concept. The resort encourages guests to slow down, connect with nature, and enjoy adventure at their own pace.

Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives stands out for its spacious layout and generous Kanifushi Plan™, offering an expansive all-inclusive experience. With large villas and a long natural island, it appeals to both families and couples looking for comfort and variety.

On the other hand, OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi offers a lively island vibe with contemporary design and a vibrant social atmosphere. It is well suited for travellers who enjoy shared spaces, active experiences, and a modern holiday setting.

Commenting on the achievement, Mr. Ashwin Handa, Chief Operating Officer of Atmosphere Core, said: “We are truly honoured to receive the Layalina Editor’s Choice Awards 2025, recognising RAAYA by Atmosphere as Best New Luxury Resort of the Year, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives as Best All-Inclusive Luxury Resort, and OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi as Most Stylish Resort. This recognition reflects our thoughtfully curated experiences, rooted in genuine care and a strong sense of product and space. These awards are a testament to the passion and commitment of our teams, as well as the continued trust of our guests. They inspire us to consistently deliver meaningful and distinctive hospitality experiences across the Maldives.”

At the core of these wins is Atmosphere Core’s philosophy of the Joy of Giving. The brand focuses on care, generosity, and close attention to detail, shaping experiences that feel personal and effortless. Each stay is designed to leave guests with meaningful memories that last well beyond the holiday.

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor has announced the appointment of Jackson Kirkwood-Dowd as its new Director of Rooms. The move is aimed at further strengthening the legendary butler service at the 94-year-old luxury hotel, which continues to be one of the most recognised hospitality landmarks in the region.

Jackson Kirkwood-Dowd joins from Raffles London at The OWO, where he was closely involved in the hotel’s opening and led its Front of House team. The property made a strong debut by entering the World’s 50 Best Hotels in its first year of operations, marking a significant achievement.

In his new role in Cambodia, Kirkwood-Dowd will oversee the entire rooms division while driving the vision of the butler programme. He will also support local experiences under Raffles’ global ‘The Butler Did It’ campaign. The initiative is known for offering personalised and signature experiences shaped around each guest.

At Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, the butler plays a central role in the newly introduced ‘Raffles Angkor Discovery’ stay package. From welcoming guests on arrival to arranging spa appointments, temple passes, afternoon tea, a private bar session, and even transfers within Siem Reap, the butler curates the journey at every step. Here, the butler is not simply a service, but the architect of the entire experience.

“I am thrilled to be continuing my professional journey with Raffles at another iconic property and helping to provide guests with truly one-of-a-kind service that leads to unforgettable moments in this magical and historic city,” Kirkwood-Dowd said.

‘The Butler Did It’ is recognised worldwide for crafting unique experiences across five continents, with a strong focus on uncompromising levels of personalised service delivered by Raffles’ legendary butlers.

“We are delighted to welcome Jackson as our new Director of Rooms, and we look forward to seeing his imprint on our fabled butler programme, which has helped set the global standard for this distinctive hotel service since 1887,” said Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor General Manager Joseph Colina.

With this appointment, the hotel aims to further refine its guest experience and continue its legacy of thoughtful and highly personalised hospitality in Siem Reap.

Danube Properties has announced the launch of its latest premium residential project, Serenz by Danube, marking a new addition to Dubai’s evolving urban living landscape. The project was officially unveiled on February 10, 2026, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, in the presence of Danube Group’s Founder and Chairman – Rizwan Sajan, Group Managing Director – Adel Sajan, Director of Agency Relationships – Sana Sajan, along with cricket legend and Danube’s Global Ambassador – Brett Lee.

Located at the heart of Jumeirah Village Circle (JVC), Serenz by Danube is envisioned as “A World of Amenities,” bringing together luxury, wellness and community-focused living. The development rises as an iconic 50 + 25-storey structure, positioned strategically between Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Al Khail Road. One of its standout features is the convenient 2-minutes-in, 2-minutes-out access, offering residents smooth and effortless connectivity across the city.

Setting a new benchmark for urban living, Serenz by Danube spans over 120,000 sq. ft. of curated lifestyle spaces,  first time ever in Dubai and offers more than 40 premium amenities designed for residents of all age groups. These include a resort-style serenity pool, a dedicated aqua park for children, landscaped gardens, spa facilities, fitness areas, sports courts, kids’ daycare, meditation zones and vibrant social spaces that encourage interaction and well-being.

Commenting on the launch, Rizwan Sajan, Founder and Chairman of Danube Group, said: "Serenz by Danube represents our vision of creating more than just homes. Our fully furnished premium apartments are designed to enhance everyday living through comfort, wellness, and luxury. Supported by our signature 1% per month payment plan, the project offers strong value for both homeowners and investors."

Serenz by Danube offers fully furnished premium residences. Located in one of Dubai’s most sought-after residential communities, JVC is known for its family-friendly environment, strong rental demand and long-term investment potential, making the project appealing to both end-users and investors.

With its innovative 1% monthly payment plan, Danube Properties continues to make luxury living more accessible while reinforcing its reputation for quality construction, thoughtful design and timely project delivery.