Dubai-based Agon Capital to develop...

Villivaru Island to include 61 villas and four restaurants

UAE's Agon Capital is set to open a private island resort in the Maldives, marking a first for the Dubai-based hospitality-focused investment firm.

Expected to open in 2027, the project in partnership with Janah International will deliver an ultra-luxury, design-led sanctuary in the South Malé Atoll, just 30 minutes by speedboat from Malé’s Velana International Airport.

Framed by powder-white sands and vibrant coral reefs, Villivaru Island Resort will offer guests "privacy, sensory immersion and curated experiences".

The resort will include a collection of 61 villas, both overwater and beachfront, as well a lavish four-bedroom owner’s residence, with a design that combines bold architecture and eco principles.

Render of Villivaru Island Resort

Among 10 dining concepts, four will be signature restaurants and two world-renowned culinary brands, serving guests everything from modern Maldivian cuisine in an overwater fine-dining venue, to open-fire grilled dishes delivered beachside under the stars.

There will also be 11 branded residences, each with their own private arrival pavilion, spa and sunset bar.

Commenting on the development, Ryan Hattingh, CEO of Agon Capital, said: “This project embodies everything Agon Capital stands for, a bold design ethos, an unwavering commitment to excellence and a belief in hospitality as a force for emotional and cultural connection.”

Made up of 26 atolls, 1,200 small islands and more than 120 properties, the Maldives in the Indian Ocean is seeing a raft of new openings in 2025, with Barceló Nasandhura Malé the latest to debut, becoming capital Malé's first five-star hotel.

Other recent openings include Centara Grand Lagoon, which sits alongside sister resort Mirage Lagoon on a multi island in the North Male Atoll; JW Marriott Kaafu Atoll Island Resort with 80 overwater and beachfront villas; and W Maldives, which has reopened following a multi-million-dollar “full-scale” renovation.

Arriving later this year is Aman Maldives, a 68-key resort set to take up residence on a private island in the archipelago's Vaavu atoll.

For more information, visit www.agoncapital.com

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