The grand opening of SO/ Maldives in March 2024 signifies a significant milestone for both S Hotels & Resorts and the Maldivian tourism landscape. This luxurious new resort, embracing a fashion-forward lifestyle concept, marks the culmination of the CROSSROADS Maldives project, the Indian Ocean’s first fully-integrated leisure destination.
A Strategic Investment and a Destination Redefined
S Hotels & Resorts’ strategic investment in SO/ Maldives represents the completion of CROSSROADS Maldives. This integrated resort complex is poised to elevate guest experiences and transform the Maldivian tourism and hospitality sectors. The anticipated outcome is a surge in revenue for S Hotels & Resorts and a lasting contribution to the Maldivian economy.
The Allure of CROSSROADS Maldives
First launched in September 2019, CROSSROADS Maldives stands out as a pivotal project in the Maldivian tourism industry. This unique destination encompasses three distinct resorts, catering to diverse guest preferences:
SAii Lagoon Maldives (Curio Collection by Hilton): A serene retreat ideal for couples, families, and friends seeking a peaceful and playful getaway.
Hard Rock Hotel Maldives: The ultimate playground for luxury and music enthusiasts.
SO/ Maldives: A vibrant private island oasis rooted in fashion, art, and design.
These three resorts seamlessly connect to the world-class facilities at The Marina @ CROSSROADS. Spanning 800 meters, this vibrant lifestyle area boasts a beach walk lined with restaurants, bars, a beach club, retail boutiques, wellness centers, water sports options, diving and snorkeling opportunities, kids’ clubs, an events center, a 30-berth yacht marina, and cultural and educational hubs like the Maldives Discovery Centre and the Marine Discovery Centre dedicated to marine conservation. This exceptional integration of diverse offerings positions CROSSROADS Maldives as an unmatched haven for guests, setting a new standard for excellence in hospitality and leisure experiences.
Unveiling the Enchanting SO/ Maldives
SO/ Maldives is a multi-million dollar international joint venture project, developed in partnership with leading business conglomerate Wai Eco World Developer (WEWD) and operated by the acclaimed Ennismore team, known for their expertise in hotel operations and brand building. Nestled amidst the pristine beauty of Emboodhoo Lagoon in the Kaafu Atoll, SO/ Maldives offers easy accessibility for weekend getaways or extended vacations with a short speedboat ride from Malé’s Velana International Airport.
A Paradise for the Discerning Traveler
SO/ Maldives is a destination for those who crave a luxurious and stylish experience. The resort features stunning Beach Villa and Water Villa Collections, each adorned with furnishings curated by international award-winning designers and original art pieces. Beyond the exquisite accommodations, SO/ Maldives offers a vibrant array of dining and social venues, including:
- An exclusive Wellness Camp
- A state-of-the-art fitness center
- The Lazuli Beach Club hosts the Maldives’ hottest parties and features international DJs
These captivating offerings solidify SO/ Maldives’ position as one of the world’s most highly anticipated hotel openings of the year.
A Catalyst for Growth
Since its grand opening celebration in March 2024, SO/ Maldives has already made a significant impact on S Hotels & Resorts’ performance. Just four months after its initial soft opening, the resort achieved an impressive occupancy rate of nearly 60% in February. Additionally, SO/ Maldives is expected to command high average daily rates (ADR) in the range of USD 750-850 for 2024. This success is projected to drive a 15-20% increase in ADR for the group’s entire Maldivian property portfolio compared to 2023. Following their strategic roadmap, S Hotels & Resorts anticipates a strong year with a projected 25% year-on-year surge in RevPAR (Revenue per Available Room) in 2024.
Food and beverage sales are another significant revenue stream for S Hotels & Resorts. The Marina @ CROSSROADS Maldives now boasts fourteen diverse restaurants and bars catering to a variety of tastes. These include:
- The Beach Club offers an unparalleled leisure experience with an infinity pool, a gelato counter, private beach access, premium casual restaurants, and poolside dining.
- Globally recognized brands like Ministry of Crab, featured on the prestigious “Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants” list, and the iconic Hard Rock Cafe, further diversify the culinary landscape.
