Universal Enterprises, parent company of Universal Resorts, announced on Monday that it is rebranding its hotel management arm to VERSA Hospitality and simultaneously launching a new hospitality lifestyle brand, NIVA Hotels & Resorts.
The move marks a strategic transformation of the independent family business from a largely B2B-focused resort operator into a globally recognised, consumer-centric hospitality brand with ambitions for international growth.
Regarding this move, Ahmed Umar Maniku, Managing Director of Universal Enterprises, highlighted the company’s five-decade-long legacy in shaping Maldivian resort tourism. He emphasises the group’s pioneering role, beginning with the opening of Kurumba in 1972 and expanding to other globally recognised resorts like Baros, Kuramathi, Huvafen Fushi, Velassaru, Milaidhoo, and Labriz. Maniku frames the rebranding to VERSA Hospitality as a strategic evolution, aimed at increasing brand recognition, leveraging the full potential of their resort portfolio, and positioning the company for future growth in an evolving global travel market.
“VERSA isn’t merely a new name; it’s a strategic repositioning to unlock the full potential of our resort portfolio and position the company for our future growth ambitions,” he said.
The announcement coincides with the appointment of Visha Mahir, a second-generation member of the founding family and board director of Universal Enterprises, as Chief Executive Officer of VERSA Hospitality. Visha has held multiple senior leadership positions within Universal Enterprises over the past two decades, most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer of Universal Resorts.
According to Universal Enterprises, through VERSA Hospitality, the company aims to strengthen brand identity, expand its consumer-facing operations, and enhance its global presence in the competitive luxury hospitality sector. NIVA Hotels & Resorts will serve as the company’s new lifestyle brand, reflecting contemporary hospitality trends and catering to discerning travellers seeking unique resort experiences.
