Dhigali Maldives to host culinary collaboration with chef James Walters

Dhigali Maldives has announced a culinary collaboration with chef, restaurateur and author James Walters, known for London’s Arabica.

In February 2026, Walters will bring his modern Middle Eastern cooking to the resort, giving guests the opportunity to try his signature dishes in an island setting.

For three nights, Walters will lead the kitchen at Battuta, the resort’s signature restaurant. He will serve a set menu created for the occasion, drawing on the flavours and dishes that have shaped Arabica’s reputation in London.

Walters will present his approach to using spices, contrasting textures and adapting traditional recipes. The menu will feature market-influenced plates and updated versions of regional classics, highlighting the culinary traditions of Lebanon, Syria, Jordan and Turkey along with neighbouring regions, set against the informal atmosphere of Battuta.

“Battuta is a beautiful space, and I’m excited to bring the flavours I love to Dhigali,” he comments. “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.”

“We’re thrilled to welcome James Walters to Dhigali,” says Christian Szabo, General Manager of Dhigali Maldives. “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.”