Business

Hard Rock to open its outlets in Maldives next year

Globally recognised as a world-class entertainment and lifestyle brand, Hard Rock International has announced plans to expand its portfolio with Hard Rock Hotel Maldives and Hard Rock Cafe Maldives, slated to open in October next year. As part of the Emboodhoo Lagoon project, the first integrated resort destination in the Maldives, the new addition is expected to provide travellers with the ultimate, family-friendly Maldivian experience.

The tourism sector has long been the backbone of the Maldivian economy. Bearing this in mind, the government of Maldives has been conducting various projects to increase investments in the tourism sector, resulting in tremendous advancement.

One of the most notable of these projects is the integrated leisure and recreation concept, Emboodhoo Lagoon project. Emboodhoo Lagoon is designed to be a multi-island integrated leisure and recreation destination and is the largest tourism development project to have ever been conducted in the country.

In partnership with Thai developer, Singha Estate Public, Hard Rock International has announced its debut in the Indian Ocean. The property will be located in one of largest lagoons in Maldives, which is a 20-minute speedboat ride from Velana International Airport. Emboodhoo Lagoon project was initiated as part of President Abdulla Yameen's strategic action plan to provide a convenient destination for flights from Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

In addition, the integrated resort would appeal to the rapidly growing niche of medium to upscale tourism, as well as affluent travelers who typically frequent the nation. Hard Rock Hotel Maldives will be one of three resorts included in the development of the 800 million U.S. dollar project, boasting 178 expansive guestrooms, family suites, beach villas and one and two-bedroom overwater villas. Senior Vice President and Head of Global Hotel Development for Hard Rock International Todd Hricko stated that Maldives being regarded as a slice of paradise and one of the world's most desirable destinations, Hard Rock is excited to work with the Singha Estate team to captivate multi-generational travellers, showcasing that the destination can cater to tourists arriving to Maldives.

Hard Rock International revealed that Hard Rock Hotel Maldives will create more than 350 jobs and the entire integrated resort will create an additional 1 thousand 250 jobs, further stimulating the Maldives community. Inspired by local Maldivian culture, Hard Rock Hotel Maldives will infuse contemporary design features with tropical architecture throughout the property, alongside regionally-inspired, authentic music memorabilia. With venues in 74 countries, including 179 cafes and 24 hotels, Hard Rock International is one of the most globally recognised companies.