Nobu Hospitality enters Maldives with private island resort and estate residences
Nobu Hospitality has announced the debut of Nobu Hotel, Residences, and Restaurant Maldives, to be developed in Laamu Atoll on the private island of Munyafushi. The project, undertaken in partnership with Sarat International, marks the brand’s first venture in the Maldives.
Sarat International, led by Managing Director Ali Ahsan, has appointed Engr. Abdulaziz Bin Mohammed Alkhudair as Chief Advisor, further strengthening its strategic presence in the Maldives.
The development will comprise 26 one- and two-bedroom beach villas and 30 one- and two-bedroom overwater villas. The design will reflect Nobu’s established aesthetic, incorporating clean architectural lines, natural materials and a muted colour palette.
A defining feature of the project is the introduction of 10 Nobu Island Estate Residences, each situated on its own private island. The limited collection offers private island ownership combined with access to Nobu’s hospitality, dining and resort facilities.
Each residence will include multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, pavilion-style living and dining areas, private beachfront access and direct ocean frontage. Residences will also include a private yacht, allowing owners to travel between their island and the main resort facilities. The hotel’s restaurants, spa, fitness centre and curated guest experiences will be accessible by boat within minutes.
The development will centre around a Nobu restaurant located on its own private island, complete with bar and lounge, serving Chef Nobu’s Japanese-Peruvian cuisine. Additional facilities will include a spa, fitness centre, diving centre, tennis courts, event spaces and a main swimming pool. Architectural and interior concepts will draw inspiration from Nobu’s Japanese heritage, incorporating angular forms and an integration with the surrounding landscape and seascape.
Trevor Horwell, Chief Executive Officer of Nobu Hospitality, said the Maldives had long been identified as a destination suitable for a distinct resort concept.
“The Maldives is a highly sought-after tourist destination that has long been on our radar for a unique resort concept. Before we embarked on this journey, we envisioned something truly special. As part of the new generation of Maldives hotels, we aim to set a new standard of rarity. Our priority is to create a superior island experience rather than follow a formulaic approach – one where design, world-class dining, and the natural environment harmoniously coexist,” he said.
Ali Ahsan, Managing Director of Sarat International, said the partnership represents a significant milestone for the company.
“We are proud to partner with Nobu Hospitality to introduce a project that redefines luxury living in the Maldives, and equally proud to be partnering with Sarat Investments on this landmark development. From the outset, our shared vision has been to create a destination that feels both rare and deeply connected to its natural surroundings. The Nobu Hotel, Restaurant, and Island Estate Residences represent a truly unparalleled opportunity—private islands that combine thoughtful design, exceptional craftsmanship, and world-class hospitality. We look forward to bringing this extraordinary retreat to life and welcoming discerning owners and guests,” he said.
The project adds to the pipeline of branded luxury developments in the Maldives, reinforcing the country’s position as a destination for integrated resort and residence concepts.
