Paradise for Everyone? Exploring HR Solutions for Local and Expatriate Workers in Isolated Environment Through a Case Study of the Maldives

This paper investigates employee well-being and Human Resources (HR) strategies in luxury Maldivian resorts to determine how the current HR practices meet the needs of expatriate and local workers in this remote area. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine local and expatriate employees and an HR manager revealing challenges such as loneliness and adaptation to new cultural norms. While employees cope through technology and HR-provided psychological support, restrictions on facilities and a lack of activities for women remain concerns. HR initiatives, including training programs and salary benefits aim to promote work-life balance and satisfaction. The study highlights the complex interaction between isolation, organizational policies, and individual experiences in the luxury resort industry, offering insights for HR professionals and policymakers aiming to improve employee well-being in isolated workplaces. Keywords: Luxury resort, Employee wellbeing, Isolated workplace, Human Resources Practices