Gulf Hotels Group to Develop First Luxury Resort in the Maldives

Bahrain-based Gulf Hotels Group (GHG) has announced plans to develop its first luxury resort in the Maldives following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Maldivian company Keiretsu Pvt Ltd.

The project marks GHG's first investment in the Indian Ocean region and forms part of the group's strategy to expand into high-growth tourism markets.

The planned five-star resort will be developed in Kaafu Atoll, one of the Maldives' premier tourism destinations. While the specific island has not been disclosed, the resort is expected to be located in a private lagoon approximately 15 to 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, offering convenient access while maintaining the exclusivity of a private island experience.

According to GHG, the development will feature a collection of beachfront and overwater villas, each with a private pool, along with multiple restaurants and lounges, wellness facilities, marine and recreational experiences, and dedicated venues for weddings and special events. The partners also plan to establish a joint venture to own, develop, and operate the resort, with Gulf Hotels Group serving as both an equity investor and the resort's operator, while Keiretsu will oversee local regulatory and project implementation matters.

GHG Chief Executive Officer Ahmed Janahi described the project as a significant milestone in the group's international expansion, noting that the Maldives offers strong long-term potential as one of the world's leading luxury tourism destinations. The resort is also expected to operate under a globally recognised luxury hospitality brand, with further details to be announced after the completion of the necessary agreements and approval processes.

Established in Bahrain in 1967, Gulf Hotels Group manages a diversified portfolio of hotels, resorts, serviced residences, convention facilities, and hospitality businesses. Its flagship property, the Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa, is among the Kingdom's best-known five-star hotels.