The Manhattan Grand Hotel, a five-star property in Hulhumalé that had remained unfinished for several years, officially opened its doors tonight following the completion of renovation and redevelopment works.
The hotel is now the largest five-star hotel to open in the Greater Malé area. Its opening ceremony was officiated by Minister of Finance and Government-Owned Enterprises Hassan Zareer.
The property was initially launched as a $34 million investment project in 2011. Although construction had reached completion, the project remained stalled for several years without progressing towards operation. Seventeen investors subsequently worked on efforts to develop the hotel over a period extending into 2020.
The redevelopment was eventually entrusted to World of Business, a company established specifically to operate the property. After taking over the project, the company completed the redevelopment within 11 months, transforming the building into a modern five-star hotel.
The hotel occupies nine floors, with 162 rooms and suites. Its facilities include a swimming pool, hot tub, spa and wellness centre, fitness centre and gym, a grand banquet hall, and three large halls dedicated to conferences and events. It will also house four internationally franchised restaurants.
The development also incorporates dedicated office spaces intended for government use.
The opening fulfils President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment to develop a quality hotel in Hulhumalé to provide better accommodation options for tourists travelling through the Maldives, particularly transit passengers. The property has been equipped with modern facilities and amenities aimed at providing a high standard of service.
Hotel owner Ibrahim Naeem said he had previously written to the President regarding the project, noting that the property had remained undeveloped for a considerable period.
“I had a very strong desire to see this project completed. This is a major business centre for Maldivians, and it is something the island really needs. When I wrote the letter, the President accepted it,” Naeem said.
Naeem also noted that he had never personally met the President, but praised his vision for the country and expressed appreciation for the decision to move the project forward.
“I have come to believe that he is a leader who truly loves his country,” he said.
Notably, the hotel was redeveloped without the original architectural plans being available. Experienced professionals were brought in to introduce major changes to the building, allowing the redevelopment to be completed within a relatively short period.
The government estimates that the hotel will generate approximately $3 million in tax revenue and other income for the state.
Meanwhile, an area equivalent to three and a half floors of the property has been allocated for government initiatives. These include the proposed Media Village, a Youth Centre featuring e-sports facilities, Heritage College, and the development of a Medical College.
A fireworks display was also scheduled for tonight as part of the hotel’s opening celebrations.
World of Business will operate the property under the name Manhattan Grand Hotel, with the project involving 50 per cent foreign investment. The foreign investment has been provided by Deep Sea Food Company, a UAE-based company.
