Universal Resorts Transitions to a Consumer-Focused Hospitality Brand with NIVA

Universal Enterprises, the parent company of Universal Resorts, has announced a rebranding of its hotel management division to VERSA Hospitality.

Alongside this, they have introduced a new hospitality lifestyle brand called NIVA Hotels & Resorts. This move marks a shift from being a respected resort owner and operator to becoming a globally recognised consumer-focused hospitality brand.

The creation of NIVA is central to the group's transformation strategy. As a lifestyle-led hospitality brand, NIVA aims to be the primary vehicle for growth and market relevance.

The name 'NIVA' is derived from 'nourish' and 'viva', reflecting a new era where emotional fulfilment is prioritised over status.

NIVA will bring together six Indian Ocean properties, including the historic Kurumba in the Maldives and new destinations in Seychelles.

The philosophy behind NIVA is to bring lightness back to travel by creating spaces that allow for unplanned and unforgettable moments rather than chasing curated perfection.

Ahmed Umar Maniku, Managing Director of Universal Enterprises, stated: "For over five decades, we've operated our iconic Maldives resorts very successfully and worked closely with our tour operating partners, pioneering the very concept of Maldivian resort life. We had a bold vision to share this extraordinary destination with the world, starting with the opening of Kurumba, the first resort in the Maldives, in 1972, and going on to create world-renowned resorts such as Baros, Kuramathi, Huvafen Fushi, Velassaru, Milaidhoo and Labriz. Now, as the global travel landscape evolves, it's time for the group to step out, building brand recognition with our guests, partners and the wider industry. 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."

This announcement coincides with Visha Mahir's appointment as Chief Executive Officer of VERSA Hospitality. A second-generation member of the founding family and board director of Universal Enterprises, Mahir has held senior leadership roles within Universal Enterprises for two decades.

Mahir expressed her enthusiasm: "It's a privilege and genuine honour to step into this role and lead our family business into this new chapter. Our story is woven into the very fabric of this island nation. Yes, we're recognised as innovators in Maldivian luxury hospitality, but more importantly, we've built our reputation on authenticity and a deep connection to our home. Our aim at VERSA is to respect that precious past, ensuring that as we expand, our heritage and heartfelt service remain at the core of everything we do."

VERSA Hospitality will guide the group's direction under its new structure. The name 'VERSA', derived from 'Universal', symbolises evolution while staying rooted in rich heritage. The portfolio will feature two divisions: NIVA Hotels & Resorts and unique standalone destinations.

The standalone destinations include iconic Maldives resorts like Baros and Milaidhoo. Over time, more properties worldwide will join this collection celebrating their unique characters.

Mahir elaborated on their vision: "When we created the business, it was never just about resorts; it was always about places: what they could become and what they could mean to someone." She added that "The name VERSA captures this idea of transformation: islands became destinations; journeys became memories; moments became part of someone's story."

With these changes underway at Universal Enterprises through VERSA Hospitality's launch alongside NIVA Hotels & Resorts' introduction into international markets - both brands are set for future growth while maintaining authenticity rooted deeply within Maldivian culture.