A special forum was held Wednesday to introduce local businesses to the international investors of the integrated resort development “Crossroads” that is being developed by Thailand’s real estate giant Singha Estate in Enboodhoo Falhu.
Economic minister Mohamed Saeed attended the inaugural ceremony held at the National Art Gallery along with 15 local investors and several international investors.
Speaking to reporters after the opening ceremony, Saeed stated that the project reflected the confidence international investors had in the country.
He also said that the project was the largest development in the country’s 45-year-old tourist industry, and would attract the attention of several international brands. According to the minister, with the country’s evolving economy, the last four years would be marked as the most successful years of its tourism industry.
An open house event from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. was also held focused on unveiling the investment opportunities in the first integrated resort of its kind in the Maldives.
International brands participating in the event included health & wellness, and food & beverage brands, such as Mango Tree Bistro, Indus, Kenny Rogers, NaRaYa and Divina Spa.
Speaking at the ceremony, the chief investment officer of Singha Estate, Thiti Thongbenjamas, proclaimed that the company gives great importance to expansion while utilizing its many assets. While stressing on the experience it had in the service and tourism industry, he noted that the company possessed a team with great talent and capabilities. He added that the project would open the country’s tourism to a new segment of the market.
“Crossroads” feature nine high-end luxury resorts, with a 12,000 square metre township that presents immense economic prospects. The township boasts luxury and entertainment with world-renowned fashion brands, restaurant and café franchises including the famous Hard Rock Café. It will also feature a special beach for children with a clubhouse, duty free shops, a cultural centre, a marine life centre, dive centre and a wellness centre.
The USD 680 million mega project would enhance the country’s economy and launch the Maldives as an entertainment and leisure destination for travellers. While preserving the unique Maldivian “one island – one resort” concept, the development would also introduce the country to the world’s emerging family-leisure tourism segment.