Seychelles invites investment into its Tourism Sector from Middle East investors

This was announced at a Press Conference hosted today by the Seychelles Tourism Marketing Authority (STMA). The resort, which is due to open in 2006, is in the final stages of negotiation to be operated by Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts.

"The Seychelles offers an ideal opportunity for UAE and other Middle Eastern Investors to develop Tourism related projects in this magnificent Indian Ocean cluster of islands, especially in the upmarket resort category," said Mohamed Al Geziry, Director, Seychelles Tourism Office Dubai. "The Seychelles Tourism sector has two overwhelming advantages. The first is the idyllic natural beauty of tropical islands and the other is a well-focused and pro-active tourism policy seeking to further develop this sector important to the country's economy. In combination these two factors, will provide a good return on investment to new investors entering this vibrant market."

"The Seychelles Tourism Marketing Authority, as a joint public and private sector entity, has further boosted the growth of tourism in the country. As an autonomously operating body, it has developed a marketing approach that is best suited to the needs of the market. With a keen understanding of market dynamics, STMA facilitates the process of investment into the tourism sector for foreign investors," explained Al Geziry.

The new resort being developed by Albwardy Investment is situated in a prime location with a majestic backdrop of Mahé's granite mountains. It promises a breathtaking view of the Petite Anse bay and will offer exclusive accommodation in discreet and private villas and suites, all with private swimming pools. The resort will offer an exquisite high quality International cuisine, which will cater to the most discerning traveller.

The resort will also feature a wonderful spa to provide the ultimate in pampering and personal renewal with its spa offerings. A broad range of treatments will be specially designed to fulfill specific needs (e.g. to counter jet-lag, to relieve aching joints, to build muscle tone or eliminate skin toxins) which can also be offered in the guest villas or suites for total privacy.

Besides the resort being developed by Albwardy Investments, another important addition to the Seychelles' tourist destinations will be the elegant eco-sensitive resort on Poivre Atoll developed by LCP Developments (Pty) Ltd. Situated in the Amirantes group of islands, approximately 300 kms from Mahé, the atoll's breathtaking land and marine environment will offer its guests a unique experience in the form of a marine safari adventure combined with exquisite comfort focused on individual needs.

This heavenly tropical hideaway will consist of twenty luxury villas, ingeniously designed to create the atmosphere of an elegant ocean-going yacht. The peacefulness of this idyllic retreat will be enhanced by various spa and health facilities, while more actively-inclined guests may indulge in marine adventures such as diving, sailing, big-game and fly-fishing, or simply explore the unspoiled beauty of the Poivre Atoll by land or by sea. The resort is slated to open in July 2005.

Another international hotel chain of global renown, the Hilton Group is also set to open a resort on Platte Island in 2005.

In fact, in 2003 Seychelles has added several new and unique hotels to its current portfolio. These include the Cerf Island Marine Park Resort, the Wharf Marina Hotel, and the exclusive North Island Resort, a luxurious 5 star property set along the eastern side of this 'Robinson Crusoe' island, created around the ethos of turning the environmental clock back 200 years.

Many existing hotels have undertaken major refurbishment, upgrades and extensions such as the remodelling of Le Meridien Fisherman's Cove which will open in June this year. Also underway are the remodelling of Le Meridien Barbarons; the upgrading of Le Northolme to a 5 Star property, proposed to be completed January 2005; Alphonse Island Resort; Beach Front Extension; New Bar & Lunch Restaurant and an addition of 10 New Hill Villas to the Banyan Tree Resort.