Dhigali Maldives is delighted to announce a new culinary collaboration with chef, restaurateur and author James Walters, the creative mind behind London's acclaimed Arabica and author of Arabica, Small Plates Big Connections. In February 2026, Walters will transport his vibrant, modern Middle Eastern cooking to the Maldives, offering guests the rare chance to savour his signature dishes against Dhigali's island backdrop.

Over three evenings – 24th, 25th and 26th February, Chef Walters will take the helm of Battuta, the resort's signature restaurant. Guests will have the rare opportunity to enjoy a specially curated menu designed and cooked by Walters, showcasing the flavours, ingredients, and dishes that have earned Arabica its reputation as one of London's most beloved Middle Eastern restaurants.

Across the three-night takeover, Walters will showcase his distinctive approach to layering spices, balancing textures, and reimagining traditional dishes. From vibrant market-inspired plates to refined interpretations of classics, the menu will celebrate the bold spices, vibrant flavours, and rich culinary traditions of Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Turkey, and beyond; each reflecting his passion for storytelling through food, combined with the relaxed elegance of Battuta's setting.

Three-Night Menu Highlights:

• Day 1: Flavours of the Aegean 
  A journey through the sun-kissed dishes of Greece and Turkey, with small plates designed for sharing and connection.
• Day 2: Levantine Feast
  Bold, sun-drenched flavours of the Eastern Mediterranean, bringing together the best of Levantine cuisine.
• Day 3: Lebanese-Inspired Feast
  A celebration of the rich, aromatic dishes of Lebanon, crafted for family style dining

“We're thrilled to welcome James Walters to Dhigali. His food brings a sense of place, culture, and creativity that aligns perfectly with the experience we want our guests to enjoy. This collaboration will offer something truly memorable for anyone visiting the resort during this time.”  Commented Christian Szabo, General Manager of Dhigali Maldives

“Battuta is a beautiful space, and I'm excited to bring the flavours I love to Dhigali. Each menu I've created for these three nights is inspired by the vibrant, sun-soaked dishes of the Eastern Mediterranean, from Greece and Turkey to Lebanon and the Levant. I want guests to feel the warmth, the aromas, and the stories behind every dish, and to share a sense of connection and celebration around the table.”  Chef James Walters, Arabica.

For guests visiting in February, this collaboration promises an unforgettable experience. Walters' bold, evocative flavours meet Battuta's lush, island‑jungle setting. Inspired by the travels of Ibn Battuta and nestled within Dhigali's verdant heart, the restaurant offers a culinary journey that carries Arabica's heritage across to the shores of the Maldives.

Dhigali Maldives (www.dhigali.com) offers 7 nights in a Deluxe Beach Bungalow on Premium All Inclusive. The price based on 2 adults sharing is from £5,058 per villa, includes seaplane transfers.

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For more information, please contact Good Results PR:

Chloe Clark | chloec@goodresults.co.uk  | Kate Stafford | kates@goodresults.co.uk  0203 397 5180

Notes to Editors:

James Walters Founder & CEO, Arabica

James Walters is a self-taught chef, entrepreneur, and the visionary behind Arabica. What began more than two decades ago as a humble 8-foot market stall in Borough Market has grown into a celebrated restaurant group and retail brand known for its bold flavours, integrity, and warmth.

Motivated by curiosity and a deep respect for the culinary traditions of the Eastern Mediterranean, James has spent years travelling across Lebanon, Syria, Turkey, Jordan and beyond, connecting with artisanal producers, learning from home cooks, and gathering inspiration from bustling souks, mountain villages and coastal kitchens. His journey has always been about more than food, it's about stories, culture and connection.

In 2014, James opened the first Arabica Bar & Kitchen in Borough Market, followed by a second site in King's Cross in 2019. Alongside the restaurants, Arabica has continued to grow its food supply business, providing premium meze, spices and ingredients to a wide range of clients, from Selfridges and Harrods to Claridge's and The Savoy.

James' debut cookbook, Arabica: Small Flavours, Big Connections, captures the spirit of the brand, offering readers a taste of the Levant, filled with vibrant dishes and generous hospitality.

With a vision rooted in authenticity and a commitment to quality, James continues to lead Arabica with the same passion and purpose that first brought him to the table, bringing people together through extraordinary food and meaningful experiences.

About Universal Resorts: https://www.universalresorts.com/

For over half a century, Universal Resorts has curated unforgettable Maldivian stays, elevating the experiences of discerning travellers while championing the vibrant local community. As a family-owned enterprise with a deep-rooted passion for the Maldives, it aims to continually redefine the standards of travel in this extraordinary destination.

Universal Resorts' portfolio of eight distinctly natural-island resorts caters to every desire, from relaxed luxury to adventurous escapes.

The dedicated team ensures seamless service and flawless execution, so guests experience the Maldives as it should be.