Whale Lagoon Maldives Transition to Meliá Hotels: A New Chapter for Luxury in South Ari Atoll

Published on December 20, 2025

Whale Lagoon Maldives, the well-known luxury resort in the South Ari Atoll, has entered a new phase as it transitions from the Barceló Hotel Group to management under Meliá Hotels International. This change brings an end to the resort’s time with the Spanish Barceló brand and marks the start of a fresh chapter as part of Meliá’s global portfolio, with expectations of renewed focus on guest experience and brand positioning.

The resort was previously owned by Browns Investments PLC and had been operating under the Barceló name for several years. In September 2025, Browns Investments announced the sale of the property to ASB Hotel Properties Maldives Private Limited, a local arm of Dubai-based Albwardy Investment, for USD 57.5 million. Following the successful completion of all regulatory and third-party approvals, ownership was officially transferred, paving the way for the resort’s rebranding and management transition under Meliá.

Management Shift and Rebranding Under Meliá Hotels International

With the successful acquisition by Albwardy Investment, the resort’s management was also transferred to Meliá Hotels International, marking the end of its operational relationship with Barceló. As a result, the resort is now officially listed in Meliá’s global portfolio as “Hotel Whale Lagoon Maldives,” signaling a departure from the Barceló brand. While Barceló’s branding still appears on some booking and promotional platforms, the property’s presence on Meliá’s official channels indicates that operational control has been fully handed over to the Spanish hotel giant.

Industry transaction advisories associated with the sale confirmed that Meliá Hotels will be responsible for the property’s operations moving forward. The management shift and brand transition come as part of the post-sale process, and guests can expect to see new experiences, services, and potentially a full rebranding of the resort in the near future.

Timeline for Rebranding and New Management Plans

As of now, there has been no official announcement from Meliá Hotels International regarding the timeline for a complete rebranding of the resort or the specific Meliá brand category under which it will ultimately operate. It is likely that the resort will undergo a gradual transition process, which may include updates to the resort’s services, amenities, and overall guest experience to align with Meliá’s brand standards. In the meantime, operations at Whale Lagoon Maldives are expected to continue seamlessly during the handover, with guests continuing to enjoy the resort’s offerings.

Impact on Guests and the Maldives Tourism Market

This shift in ownership and management is a significant development in the Maldives tourism market, particularly in the luxury resort sector. Whale Lagoon Maldives has long been a popular destination for travelers seeking a luxurious and secluded experience in one of the most picturesque regions of the Maldives. Its location in South Ari Atoll, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, abundant marine life, and stunning coral reefs, makes it an ideal choice for tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure.

With the resort now under Meliá’s management, it is poised to benefit from the global hospitality group’s extensive experience and expertise. Meliá Hotels International, which operates a wide range of luxury and upscale hotels worldwide, is known for offering high-quality service, exceptional amenities, and innovative experiences. This expertise is expected to enhance the overall guest experience at Whale Lagoon Maldives, further elevating its position as a premier destination in the Maldives.

The transition also comes at a time when the Maldives continues to see growing interest from international travelers, particularly those seeking luxury resorts and sustainable travel options. With its extensive portfolio of resorts in prime locations, Meliá Hotels International is well-positioned to attract a broader range of guests, including those seeking exclusive experiences in the Maldives.

Future Developments and Opportunities for Expansion

The Maldives remains one of the world’s top luxury travel destinations, and Whale Lagoon Maldives’s transition to Meliá Hotels aligns with the region’s continued growth in the global tourism market. The Maldives has consistently seen increased demand for high-end resorts, and this acquisition represents a strategic move by Albwardy Investment and Meliá Hotels to capitalize on this growing interest.

In addition to the rebranding process, Meliá Hotels International may also introduce new offerings and experiences at Whale Lagoon Maldives to enhance the resort’s appeal to a wider audience. These may include updated dining options, wellness programs, enhanced spa services, and eco-friendly initiatives, all aimed at providing an elevated experience for guests and supporting the Maldives’ commitment to sustainable tourism practices.

As Whale Lagoon Maldives transitions into the Meliá Hotels portfolio, it is likely to become an even more significant player in the Maldives’ luxury resort market, attracting travelers seeking the highest standards of service, luxury, and natural beauty. The future of the resort looks bright as it embraces new opportunities for growth and development under the Meliá brand.