Gulf Hotels Group (GHG) has announced plans for its first investment in the Indian Ocean with the development of a landmark luxury resort in the Maldives, marking a significant step in the Bahrain-based hospitality company’s international expansion strategy.
The project reinforces GHG’s long-term commitment to entering high-growth markets while broadening its global hospitality portfolio.
According to the statement, the project follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Gulf Hotels Group and Maldivian partner Keiretsu Pvt Ltd in Bahrain, establishing a framework for collaboration to jointly develop a luxury island resort in Kaafu Atoll, one of the Maldives’ most established tourism regions.
Situated within a private lagoon approximately 15 to 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the resort is designed to combine the exclusivity of a private-island experience with convenient access to an international gateway.
Ahmed Janahi CEO – Gulf Hotels Group
“This project marks an important step in Gulf Hotels Group’s growth journey as we expand beyond our traditional markets and establish a presence in the Indian Ocean region for the first time. The Maldives is one of the world’s most recognised tourism destinations, offering strong long-term fundamentals and a reputation for exceptional hospitality experiences. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding marks an important milestone in bringing this vision to life. We look forward to working closely with our partners to advance the project and create a hospitality asset that contributes positively to the Maldives’ tourism sector while supporting the Group’s long-term growth objectives.”
Commenting on the partnership, Sofwan Ahmed, Founder and Managing Director of Keiretsu Pvt Ltd, said that, “The Memorandum of Understanding reflects our shared confidence in the potential of this project and establishes the foundation for a long-term partnership.”
“By combining Gulf Hotels Group’s international owner-operator expertise with Keiretsu’s local experience in project development in the Maldives, we are well positioned to deliver a luxury destination that meets the highest international standards while celebrating the unique character and natural beauty of the Maldives,” Ahmed added.
