Gulf Hotels Group has moved forward with plans for its first investment in the Indian Ocean, with a luxury resort development planned in the Maldives. The project marks an important step in the Bahrain-based hospitality group’s international expansion strategy and reflects its focus on entering high-growth tourism markets.

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The development follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Gulf Hotels Group and Keiretsu Pvt Ltd, a Maldivian partner, in Bahrain. The agreement sets out a framework for both parties to work together on the development of a luxury island resort in Kaafu Atoll, one of the Maldives’ most established tourism regions.

Located in a private lagoon around 15 to 25 minutes by speedboat from Velana International Airport, the resort is expected to offer the privacy of an island retreat while remaining easily accessible from the country’s main international gateway.

The MoU lays the groundwork for a long-term partnership between Gulf Hotels Group and Keiretsu Pvt Ltd. It brings together Gulf Hotels Group’s experience as an owner and operator with Keiretsu’s local knowledge and project development expertise in the Maldives. The partnership also reflects a shared aim to create a high-end resort that supports the growth of the Maldives’ tourism industry while generating long-term value for all stakeholders involved.

Ahmed Janahi, Chief Executive Officer of Gulf Hotels Group, described the project as a significant milestone in the group’s growth journey. He noted that the Maldives represents one of the world’s most recognised tourism destinations, with strong long-term potential and a global reputation for exceptional hospitality experiences.

He added that the signing of the MoU is an important step towards realising the project, and said Gulf Hotels Group looks forward to working closely with its partners to develop a hospitality asset that contributes positively to the Maldives’ tourism sector while supporting the group’s wider growth ambitions.

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Sofwan Ahmed, Founder and Managing Director of Keiretsu Pvt Ltd, said the agreement reflects the confidence both parties have in the project’s potential. He noted that by combining Gulf Hotels Group’s international owner-operator experience with Keiretsu’s understanding of resort development in the Maldives, the partners are well positioned to create a luxury destination that meets international standards while reflecting the natural beauty and distinct character of the Maldives.

He also stated that Keiretsu looks forward to working with Gulf Hotels Group as the project moves into its next phase, with the aim of developing a resort that supports the continued growth of the country’s tourism industry and creates lasting value for the destination and its stakeholders.

Planned as a single-island luxury resort, the development will feature a collection of beachfront and over-water villas, each with its own private pool. The resort will also include restaurants and lounges, wellness facilities, marine and recreational activities, lifestyle programming, and dedicated spaces for weddings and special events.

Keiretsu Pvt Ltd will play an important role in supporting local regulatory processes and project implementation. The partners plan to establish a joint venture to own, develop, and operate the resort, with Gulf Hotels Group involved as both an equity investor and the operator of the property.

The resort is also expected to be affiliated with a globally recognised luxury hospitality brand, with further details to be announced once the relevant agreements and approval processes have been completed.

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With more than five decades of experience in hospitality, Gulf Hotels Group has built a diverse portfolio across hotels, resorts, serviced residences, convention facilities, food and beverage operations, and hospitality services in Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Africa. The Maldives development represents a strategic extension of the group’s owner-operator model into one of the world’s leading luxury tourism markets, supporting its broader goal of expanding its regional and international presence.