Maldives Mourns Tourism Icon MU Manik
The Maldives lost one of its greatest pioneers last night with the passing of Mohamed Umar “MU” Manik, chairman of Universal Company. Known as the man who helped put Maldivian tourism on the world map, MU Manik was not just a businessman—he was a visionary who shaped the country’s modern hospitality industry.
Before his rise in tourism, he was a doctor, becoming the first Maldivian anesthesiologist after studying in Germany. He modernized Male’s central hospital with new equipment and cared deeply about the health of the nation. But his passion for the Maldives didn’t stop there. He founded the Male’ Aerated Water Company, the first local Coca-Cola bottler, and launched several luxury resorts including Baros, Anantara Dhigu, Niyama, Milaidhoo, and The Nautilus. He also supported domestic air travel by investing in Manta Air and served as Germany’s honorary consul in the Maldives.
MU Manik was admired for his generosity and vision. He created scholarships to help young Maldivians pursue medical studies and inspired many in tourism and business. His impact on the Maldives is immeasurable; he helped turn a small island nation into a global luxury destination.
The nation mourns a leader, a pioneer, and a man who truly loved the Maldives. His legacy will continue to live in the resorts, the people he helped, and the paradise he built.
