Anse a la Mouche to get $400m five-star resort -

Construction work on a five-star world-class resort at Anse à la Mouche is expected to start soon.

The stone-laying ceremony for the project, which is being carried out by Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company at a final cost of US $400 million, took place on Sunday.

Vice-President Belmont and Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani shake hands after unveiling the plaque signalling the start of the project

The heir apparent of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al Thani, and Vice-President Joseph Belmont unveiled the plaque to start the project. Also present were cabinet ministers and a high-ranking government delegation from Qatar as well as representatives of Qatari Diar.

Addressing guests, Minister for National Development Jacquelin Dugasse said the presence of Sheikh Tamin Bin Hamad despite his busy schedule was a clear testimony of the excellent bonds of friendship and cooperation between Qatar and Seychelles. This relationship, he said, goes back many years and was cemented further by the visit of President James Michel to Qatar in 2006.

He added that the Sheikh’s presence indicates the importance that the Qatari government attaches to the project, which will be a key addition to its portfolio of overseas investments and, in turn, to the diversified portfolio of tourism products for Seychelles.

Mr Dugasse also said the Seychelles’ government remained committed to a friendly and harmonious investment regime and the launch of another major investment by an investor of international repute is proof that the government’s policies and strategies are appropriate and in line with investors’ expectations.

The investment project, he said, will bring new diversity to our tourism portfolio, at a time when the global tourism industry is looking for diversity.

Qatari Diar’s chief executive, Ghanim Bin Saad al-Saad, said Qatar is committed to local communities and sustainable development. He described the project as an attractive and rewarding investment opportunity that will help to reinvigorate the tourism industry and contribute towards the economic revitalisation of Seychelles.

Guests view a maquette of the proposed development

The Anse à la Mouche project will also help to redefine one of the world’s most sought-after tourist destinations and will contribute to the country’s international renaissance as a premier destination for world travellers, he added.

The 840,000 square metre luxury development will include a five-star resort and spa as well as freehold residential villas.

It will also have a retail village consisting of shops and restaurants with full leisure and shopping amenities.

Qatari Diar Real Estate Investment Company was established in 2004. Its prime aim is to support Qatar’s growing economy and coordinate the country’s real estate development priorities.
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