Mohamed Khaleel, Managing Director, Pulse Hotels & Resorts, has firmly positioned the company at a pivotal moment, defining a strategy that balances diverse offerings in the Maldives with ambitious international expansion. Speaking to TTN at WTM 2025, Khaleel detailed how the group is diversifying its portfolio, hyper-personalising service for key markets, and driving tangible environmental change.
The official launch of Eri Maldives in November 2025 and The Coral Residences at Kandima, launching in Q2 2026 marks a calculated strategic move. Khaleel describes Eri as a "five-in-one" concept, specifically designed to introduce a different market segment to the group. Juxtaposed against the ultra-luxury of The Nautilus Maldives and the active lifestyle of Kandima Maldives. Khaleel stressed the importance of complete market coverage, noting, "We really need to have something for everybody to make sure that we don't miss out." This move completes a distinct trilogy of brands, catering to different "brains" and allowing the group to attract a broader clientele.
The crucial GCC market remains a priority, demanding a service model built on individualisation. Khaleel acknowledged the need for personalisation detailing the operational philosophy to meet these elevated expectations. This is achieved through specialised staffing, with a focus on cultural and linguistic affinity. "We have a guest relations team who speaks their language," he confirmed.
Pulse Hotels’ dedication to environmental stewardship is a non-negotiable part of its growth narrative. Khaleel was adamant that the company is "practically doing" rather than "merely talking" about sustainability. Key initiatives include a shift to hybrid-solar energy and sophisticated waste-to-resource programs. He highlighted that they "recoup the heat that emits from the generators to produce the steam and the hot water," and actively recycle grey water for irrigation, calling it their "single biggest change." The company is also heavily involved in coral adaptation efforts and is working towards being globally certified for sustainability by the end of 2026.
Looking ahead, Khaleel announced an exciting leap beyond the Maldivian atolls. "I think it's time to start looking beyond [the Maldives]," he stated, outlining an expansion roadmap targeting the Indian subcontinent (Sri Lanka, Mauritius) and the Middle East, specifically Oman and Dubai. The core objective is to export the group’s high-quality standards and services, aiming to establish new properties outside the Maldives.