Building the future of tourism real estate from within

Featured On: Hotelier Maldives
“Jasim Janah: Building the future of tourism real estate from within”

Jasim Janah, Group Chief Commercial Officer at Hotels and Resorts Investment Maldives Pvt Ltd (HARIM) and head of its Project Management Consultancy division, shares how opportunities in construction and logistics can strengthen the Maldives’ economy from the ground up.

The Maldives is globally renowned for its pristine beauty and ultra-luxury hospitality. Yet behind the turquoise lagoons and sandy shores lies an industry in transformation. Tourism real estate continues to offer some of the highest returns on investment worldwide, but its greatest promise may lie not only in capital flows from abroad but in unlocking the potential of Maldivians themselves.

For Jasim Janah, this is more than business – it is a mission. “Every new resort or luxury development in the Maldives is a symbol of investor confidence,” he says. “But for us at HARIM, these projects represent an opportunity for Maldivian businesses and entrepreneurs to be part of the growth story, and for me, they carry a responsibility to make sure that happens.”

As head of HARIM’s PMC division, Jasim has a vantage point over some of the country’s most ambitious real estate projects. Walking through construction sites, he doesn’t just see foundations and groyns. “I see foreign and local expertise working together, shaping the future of our nation’s tourism industry. These aren’t just buildings rising from the sand; for me, they’re symbols of empowerment, resilience, and possibility.”

Untapped Opportunities

The construction industry, both globally and locally, is on a positive growth trajectory. From luxury resorts to urban infrastructure, demand continues to expand. Jasim believes there is immense potential for Maldivian entrepreneurs to step forward.

“Specialised infrastructure may at times require international expertise, but that doesn’t mean we must always lean on outsiders,” he notes. “There is vast untapped potential for Maldivians, particularly youth entrepreneurs, to seize. We have the skills, the knowledge, and the determination to benefit from this sector.”

A report facilitated by the Maldives National Association of Construction Industry highlights both the challenges and opportunities within logistics, a sector critical to delivering large-scale projects across dispersed islands. Jasim sees this as a clear call to action. “Logistics is one area where innovation and entrepreneurial energy can make a huge difference. There are openings waiting for our young entrepreneurs to claim.”

Building Capacity from Within

At HARIM, local contractors are at the heart of many landmark projects now underway. Their knowledge of the islands gives them unmatched insight into the most reliable and efficient ways of working in the Maldivian context. “Local expertise often produces solutions that are more practical, cost-effective, and long-lasting – approaches that reflect decades of lived experience in our unique environment,” Jasim explains. “This is where Maldivians have a true advantage, knowing not just how to build, but how to build in ways that endure.”

These collaborations ripple far beyond individual projects. They build technical expertise across engineering, architecture, and project management. Over time, this knowledge strengthens the sector and positions Maldivian firms to compete regionally and globally.

“As a relatively young person in this industry, I am continually learning how to support and amplify that expertise,” Jasim says. “I see the potential for local entrepreneurs to leave a lasting mark on the industry’s legacy.”

A Shared Engine of Growth

Tourism real estate does more than generate profits for investors. Taxes and revenues flow back into the national economy, supporting infrastructure, public services, and community programs. For Jasim, this cycle of reinvestment shows how private ventures can evolve into shared engines of growth.

“The Maldives continues to offer some of the highest returns on investment in the global market,” he affirms. “But true investor confidence is built not just on numbers, but on trust and proven results. That trust grows stronger every time Maldivian firms demonstrate their reliability, quality, and professionalism.”

For Jasim, the vision is clear: every development must leave behind more than luxury villas. “Our commitment extends beyond delivering ultra-luxury resorts. As a family business, our vision is to leave behind knowledge, opportunity, and a legacy of meaningful Maldivian contributions. That is what will define the next generation of tourism real estate in our country.”

Jasim is part of a new wave of Maldivian leaders determined to bridge global capital with local talent. His message is one of optimism and urgency: the future of the industry is being written now, and Maldivians must claim their place in it.

“For centuries, Maldivians have thrived by turning vast oceans and scarce resources into opportunity,” Jasim reflects. “That same spirit must now guide us in advancing our industries. The world is at our shores, but it is our generation that must steer the helm.”

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