Asad Photo

26/12/2024

As we celebrate 16 years of growth, innovation and trust we are proud to launch Crowe Cybersecurity Maldives, a joint venture between Crowe Maldives and Cybersecurity Maldives, dedicated to provide cybersecurity services in Maldives.

Join us on this exciting journey toward a safer digital world!

https://shorturl.at/hwxR4

19/12/2024

The traditional dhoni is one of the oldest sea vessels known in the Maldives. Historically, many of these sailing vessels were constructed from coconut palm timber out of necessity. Maldivian fishermen used sailing dhonis in earlier times, but with the advent of the Industrial Revolution, many transitioned to mechanized dhonis. By 1995, there were 1,674 registered fishing vessels in the Maldives. Among these, 1,407 were motorized pole-and-line boats (masdhoni) used for tuna fishing in coastal waters, five were sailing masdhonis, 48 were mechanized vadhudhonis, 209 were sailing vadhudhonis, and five were rowboats used for trawling in reef waters.

Source:
- Book 'Odi Dhoni Faharu Banun', by Mohamed Shafeeg
- The Maldives Islanders: A Study of the Popular Culture of an Ancient Ocean Kingdom
- Maldives-Enthnography

15/12/2024

The dhoani has transitioned from a workhorse of daily life to a symbol of Maldivian heritage and a vehicle for tourism experiences. While its core function of connecting people to the sea remains, its purpose has adapted to the changing needs and economic landscape of the Maldives.

While the dhoani still holds cultural significance and is used for fishing, its role in everyday transport has shifted. Modernization and the rise of tourism have brought new purposes:

The evolving role of the dhoani in Maldivian life contrasting its traditional and modern uses:

Traditional Usage:
Inter-island Transport: The dhoani was the lifeline of the Maldives, connecting its scattered islands. People relied on them for everyday travel between islands for trade, family visits, and community events.
Cargo: Dhoanis were essential for transporting goods between islands. This included necessities like food, building materials, and everyday items. They were adept at navigating shallow lagoons and reefs, reaching islands inaccessible to larger vessels.
Fishing: Fishing has always been central to Maldivian life, and the dhoani was (and still is) a primary fishing vessel. Its design allows for setting nets, lines, and traditional fishing techniques.
International Trade: Larger dhoanis even ventured into international waters, carrying goods like dried fish, coir rope, and cowrie shells to India and Sri Lanka, returning with spices, textiles, and other imports. This trade played a crucial role in the Maldivian economy.

Current Usage:

Tourism Transport: Dhoanis ferry tourists between resorts, airports, and local islands. They provide a connection to the seaplane platforms that serve many resorts. This offers visitors a taste of traditional Maldivian travel.
Island Hopping: Tourists often use dhoanis for short trips between nearby islands, exploring different atolls and experiencing local life.
Luxury Experiences: Dhoanis have been adapted for leisure and luxury tourism. Resorts offer:
Dolphin cruises: Excursions to observe dolphins in their natural habitat.
Sunset cruises: Romantic trips to enjoy the Maldivian sunset over the ocean.
Luxury boat houses: Some high-end resorts feature "dhoani-inspired" boat houses or floating villas that provide a unique and indulgent experience.
Cultural Preservation: Dhoani-building skills are still passed down through generations, preserving traditional craftsmanship. Some organizations and resorts actively promote dhoani races and cultural events to keep these traditions alive.

This image shows a diagram of a traditional Maldivian boat called a dhoani. Here's a breakdown of its parts based on the numbered labels:

Hull and Structure
1. Tiller (hun'gaanudhooni): The lever used to steer the rudder.
2. Rope tying on rudder (halhibain): Ropes used to secure and control the rudder.
3. Fishing platform (filaagandu): A raised platform, likely at the stern, used for fishing.
4. Rudder (hungaanu): The underwater blade that steers the boat.
5. Front planks on stern platform (mathimalhu): Planks forming the front part of the stern platform.
6. Back planks on stern platform (dhahmalhu): Planks at the back of the stern platform.
7. Stern stem (kolhufahu mayya): The main structural piece forming the very back of the boat.
9. Longitudinal strengthening beams (thau): Beams running lengthwise to provide strength to the hull.
21. Beam clamp (hafolhu): A device used to secure beams together.
22. Main frames (faivah): The ribs of the boat, providing its shape and structure.
23. Lower of the two top hard wood plank layers (mathikan): A layer of planking on the hull.
24. Upper of the two top hard wood plank layers (faggan'du): The topmost layer of planking on the hull.

Bow Section
10. Foryard platform (huras filaa): A platform at the front of the boat.
11. Bow platform (dhirun'baa fenfilaa): Another platform at the bow, possibly smaller or with a different function than the foryard platform.
12. Bow stem (dhirun'baa mayya): The main structural piece at the very front of the boat.
13. Bow sprit (dhirun'baa mulah): A spar extending forward from the bow.
14. Bow cleat (kanikuradhi): A fitting on the bow for tying ropes.

Sailing Rigging
8. Stand for bait thrower (dhippathu vai): A support for a tool used in fishing.
15. Sail ties (dhihi): Short ropes used to secure the sail when it's not in use.
16. Bow stay (savaa): A rope supporting the mast from the bow.
17. Mast (kun'bu): The vertical pole that supports the sail.
18. Halyards (hanjaa): Ropes used to raise and lower the sail.
25. Sail (riyaa): The primary means of propulsion, catching the wind.
26. Yard (farumaanu): The horizontal spar that supports the top of the sail.
27. Yard crutch (kun'bu kafi): A support for the yard when the sail is lowered.
28. Block (dhan'maanu kappi): A pulley used in the sail's control system.
29. Main sheet (dhan'maanu): The rope used to control the angle of the sail.

Other Equipment
19. Oar (fali): Used for rowing, likely as a backup to sailing.
20. Metal hook (bulhi): A general-purpose hook, possibly for fishing or mooring.
30. Water container (fenhadhu): For storing fresh water on board.
This diagram provides a good overview of the key components of a dhoani, showcasing its traditional design and features that make it suitable for fishing and sailing in the Maldives.

12/11/2024

This bride wore an ivory pearl lehenga to her wedding on a remote ocean sandbar in the Maldives.

Tap to see: https://vogueindia.visitlink.me/NRib2A

Manisha and Chris Wedding in Maldives,

Manisha Seth and Chris Toh danced down the aisle to “Gold Digger” by Kanye West. “In bad taste or not—I am not sure!” Manisha says, laughing

09/11/2024

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📸 Photography Physical Workshop - Powered by SONY.

📣 Here is an excellent opportunity to advance your photography skills with an 18-year experience photographer from the Maldives.

➡️ For Ladies and Gents
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➡️ 💵 : 800 per seat (20 Slots only)
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01/10/2024

Listening to the stories of the summit organizers, veterans of the hospitality industry, I was reminded of the incredible journey we've been on. They spoke of the 'One Island One Resort' concept, a homegrown idea that transformed our nation. They shared stories of empowering local communities and fostering sustainable tourism. Their words echoed in the faces of the attendees, a new generation ready to take the reins.

As a photographer, I've been blessed to capture the essence of the Maldives, from its pristine beauty to the heart of its people. The Destination Future - Future Summit 2024 was another such moment. It wasn't just about capturing smiles and handshakes; it was about witnessing the passion and dedication of individuals who've shaped Maldivian tourism.

The summit was a triumph, not just for the organizers but for everyone who believes in the future of Maldivian tourism. As I captured candid moments of connection and collaboration, I felt the energy and optimism in the air. We're not just building a destination; we're nurturing a legacy.

To Abdulla Nabeel, Amjad Thaufeeg, Ibrahim Inad, Hamza, Rifaath Saeed, Nuaas Mohamed, Aisha, Ali Hussain, and Hassaan, the lovely panelists and speakers and the empowering Minister of Tourism and our four fathers of the tourism industry - your vision inspires us all.

Thank you for allowing me to document this remarkable event. The future is bright, and we're ready to embrace it, together.

26/08/2024

🎉 We did it! Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll has been named the Best Family Resort in the Maldives at the Travel Trade Maldives Gala 2024! 🏆🌴

A huge thank you to our amazing islanders and wonderful guests for making endless moments of joy and fun possible. Here's to more unforgettable family memories in our island playground! 🌟👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

25/08/2024

We are honored to be recognized as the Best Honeymoon Destination at the TTM Awards 2024! Thank you for the love and support that made this possible.

21/08/2024

“The poetry of the earth is never dead.” –John Keats
🇲🇻 🌞🇲🇻😎🏖 ☀️

20/08/2024

As a photographer, I've been blessed to capture the essence of the Maldives, from its pristine beauty to the heart of its people. The Destination Future - Future Summit 2024 was another such moment. It wasn't just about capturing smiles and handshakes; it was about witnessing the passion and dedication of individuals who've shaped Maldivian tourism.

Listening to the stories of the summit organizers, veterans of the hospitality industry, I was reminded of the incredible journey we've been on. They spoke of the 'One Island One Resort' concept, a homegrown idea that transformed our nation. They shared stories of empowering local communities and fostering sustainable tourism. Their words echoed in the faces of the attendees, a new generation ready to take the reins.

The summit was a triumph, not just for the organizers but for everyone who believes in the future of Maldivian tourism. As I captured candid moments of connection and collaboration, I felt the energy and optimism in the air. We're not just building a destination; we're nurturing a legacy.

To Abdulla Nabeel, Amjad Thaufeeg, Ibrahim Inad, Hamza, Rifaath Saeed, Nuaas Mohamed, Aisha, Ali Hussain, and Hassaan, the lovely panelists and speakers and the empowering Minister of Tourism and our four fathers of the tourism industry - your vision inspires us all.

Thank you for allowing me to document this remarkable event. The future is bright, and we're ready to embrace it, together.

23/07/2024

The image provides a visual representation of major geographical terms. Here's a breakdown:

Landforms:

Mountain: A large natural elevation of the earth's surface rising abruptly from the surrounding level.
Volcano: A rupture in the crust of a planetary-mass object, such as Earth, that allows hot lava, volcanic ash, and gases to escape from a magma chamber below the surface.
Glacier: A persistent body of dense ice that is constantly moving under its own weight.
Hill: A landform that extends above the surrounding terrain. It is generally smaller than a mountain.
Valley: A low area of land between hills or mountains, typically with a river or stream flowing through it.
Plateau: An area of highland, usually consisting of relatively flat terrain.
Plain: A broad area of relatively flat land.
Butte: An isolated hill with steep, often vertical sides and a small, relatively flat top.
Mesa: An elevated area of land with a flat top and sides that are usually steep cliffs.
Canyon: A deep gorge, typically with a river flowing through it.

Bodies of Water:

Ocean: A vast body of salt water that covers much of the Earth's surface.
Sea: A large body of salt water that is smaller than an ocean.
Lake: A large body of water surrounded by land.
River: A natural flowing watercourse, usually freshwater, flowing towards an ocean, sea, lake or another river.
Strait: A narrow passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water.
Gulf: A deep inlet of the sea almost surrounded by land, with a narrow mouth.
Bay: A body of water partially enclosed by land but with a wide mouth, allowing access to the sea.
Waterfall: A cascade of water falling from a height, formed when a river or stream flows over a precipice or steep incline.

Coastal Features:

Peninsula: A piece of land almost surrounded by water or projecting out into a body of water.
Cape: A headland or promontory of large size extending into a body of water, usually the sea.
Island: A piece of land surrounded by water.
Archipelago: A group of islands.
Coast: The land along a sea.
Cliff: A steep rock face, especially at the edge of the sea.
Beach: A pebbly or sandy shore, especially by the ocean between high- and low-water marks.

Other Features:

Forest: A large area covered chiefly with trees and undergrowth.
Jungle: A land covered with dense vegetation, often in tropical areas.
Desert: A barren area of landscape where little precipitation occurs and consequently living conditions are hostile for plant and animal life.
Tundra: A vast, flat, treeless Arctic region of Europe, Asia, and North America in which the subsoil is permanently frozen.
Oasis: A fertile spot in a desert where water is found.
Geyser: A hot spring in which water intermittently boils, sending a tall column of water and steam into the air.
Swamp: An area of low-lying, uncultivated ground where water collects.
Marsh: An area of low-lying land that is flooded in wet seasons or at high tide, and typically remains waterlogged at all times.
Dune: A mound or ridge of sand or other loose sediment formed by the wind, especially on the sea coast or in a desert.
Delta: A landform formed at the mouth of a river, where the river flows into an ocean, sea, estuary, lake, or reservoir.

18/07/2024

Candlelights and colorful blooms.

Event planning and production:
Photographer: .photo
Location: