Paolo Maldini Backs $100m NH Collection project on Al Marjan Island

Dubai, UAE: RRS International Development has announced a strategic collaboration with football legend Paolo Maldini, marking a significant milestone for the developer’s flagship NH Collection project on Al Marjan Island. The partnership reflects Maldini’s confidence in the project’s vision, the strength of the NH Collection brand, and the leadership behind RRS International Development.

Valued at approximately $100 million, the mixed-use development will comprise 121 hotel keys and 36 branded residences, with completion targeted for 2027. The project represents the debut of the NH Collection brand on Al Marjan Island, positioning it among the island’s most anticipated hospitality-led developments.

The project has been conceived as a lifestyle-driven hospitality destination, offering more than 20 curated amenities designed to serve both hotel guests and residential owners. Key features include a signature cantilevered pool, a rooftop infinity pool envisioned as an artist-signed living canvas, a zen garden, destination dining concepts, and a range of elevated leisure and wellness experiences.

Designed by B8 Architecture, the development adopts a wave-inspired architectural form that responds to its coastal setting. Interiors are defined by refined material palettes, layered spatial planning, and luxury finishes, complemented by curated art installations, landscaped outdoor areas, and design elements intended to create a warm and engaging environment.

Signature elements include a podium-level statement pool with cantilevered features, a rooftop infinity pool designed as a kinetic art installation, and a series of social, wellness, and dining spaces that extend the hospitality experience beyond traditional hotel living.

Strategic location on Al Marjan Island

Located on Al Marjan Island, the development benefits from proximity to Wynn Al Marjan Island, which is set to become the first integrated gaming resort in the GCC. This positioning places Ras Al Khaimah at the forefront of a new phase of regional tourism growth, driven by hospitality, entertainment, and lifestyle-led development.

Globally, destinations that have introduced integrated gaming and entertainment resorts have experienced transformational effects on tourism and surrounding real estate markets. In Macau, for example, tourism arrivals increased multiple times following the expansion of integrated resorts, accompanied by long-term appreciation in nearby real estate values as infrastructure and global visibility accelerated.

A similar structural uplift is anticipated for Ras Al Khaimah as it continues to evolve into a diversified tourism hub, combining luxury hospitality, nature, adventure, wellness, and entertainment.

Maldini’s involvement reflects an alignment between his personal ethos and the development’s long-term vision. Known throughout his career for loyalty, consistency, leadership under pressure, and a long-term mindset, Maldini’s values mirror the development philosophy adopted by RRS International Development.

Commenting on the collaboration, Paolo Maldini said:

NH Collection is a brand we all know, particularly in Europe, and specially in Italy and Spain. What stood out to me with this project is that the product feels different and very complete. It combines the standards and experience of an established international brand with a lifestyle-driven concept that fits naturally with the destination.

Strong demand and long-term value proposition

Since launch, the project has recorded exceptional demand, with strong participation from international buyers, underscoring confidence in Ras Al Khaimah’s hospitality-led growth trajectory. Eligible buyers also benefit from UAE 10-year Golden Visa eligibility, reinforcing the project’s long-term ownership appeal.

Comparable branded hospitality assets in the market have already demonstrated pricing benchmarks of $1,900 per sq ft (approximately AED 7,000 per sq ft) and above for hotel units, highlighting the upside potential associated with early entry into Al Marjan Island’s growth phase.

Rakesh Mirchandani, Co-Founder of RRS International Development FZ LLC and Partner at RRS Capital Management LLC FZ, said:

The NH Collection debut in Ras Al Khaimah was met with overwhelming interest, with the project oversubscribed at launch. Paolo Maldini’s decision reflects trust in our leadership, our partners, and our commitment to execution. We are building assets that combine lifestyle appeal with operational depth and long-term relevance.

Sanjay Dhawan, Co-Founder of RRS International Development FZ LLC, added:

Our approach is rooted in precision, accountability, and discipline—values that transcend industries. This project reflects our belief that true luxury is created through thoughtful design, strong partnerships, and responsible delivery.

The development reinforces RRS International Development’s broader strategy of delivering design-led, hospitality-driven assets with a strong emphasis on execution, operational excellence, and future-ready living environments.