Six Senses takes on strategic investor in order to capitalise on growth potential

Published January 10th, 2010 - 03:01 GMT
Al Bawaba
Al Bawaba

Six Senses Resorts &
Spas has entered into a strategic alliance with Miami based Saudi
entrepreneur, Mr. Laith Pharaon, who will become a stakeholder in
the management arm of Six Senses group - Six Senses Mauritius.

Six Senses currently operate thirteen high-end resorts branded as
Soneva, Six Senses and Evason in the Maldives, Thailand, Vietnam,
Oman  and  Jordan,  with  new developments  underway  in  several
additional  locations. The Six Senses Spa division is represented
by  twenty-seven  company-operated spas,  with  new  developments
underway  in  several locations. The group recently launched  the
Six Senses Destination Spa brand.

Following  the opening of its first property in 1995, Six  Senses
has   been   recognized  as  the  global   benchmark   for   eco-
responsibility  in  the  hospitality sector.  Its  philosophy  is
developed  around  the  core purpose of creating  innovative  and
enlightening  experiences that rejuvenate their guests'  love  of
SLOW LIFE*

Laith Pharaon serves as principal investor for his Group who  are
involved  in  a  wide  range of industries primarily  focused  on
hospitality and real estate developments worldwide.

The  agreement between Six Senses and Laith Pharaon provides  for
the  investor  to acquire a 10% stake of Six Senses  Mauritius  -
through  a  convertible  instrument,  with  an  option   for   an
additional  15%  stake  based  on  the  achievement  of   certain
milestones.

"I  am personally excited to have an investor and partner such as
Laith  Pharaon and his father Dr. Ghaith Pharaon", said  Founder,
Chairman  and CEO of Six Senses, Sonu Shivdasani. "They  have  an
impeccable background in the high-end hospitality business having
been significant shareholders of Hyatt and owners of several Four
Season Hotels properties, and other luxury-branded properties  in
the  past.  Their track record of great successes will contribute
significantly  to  the future development of Six  Senses,  adding
strength and vibrancy to the group".

Six  Senses Board Member, Wolf Hengst - Former President of  Four
Seasons  Hotels,  reiterated the solid relationship  and  support
that  the Pharaons had extended to Four Seasons, and his  delight
in being able to work together again.

Commenting on the acquisition, Mr Laith Pharaon said, "I am  very
excited  to  be part of Six Senses. By bringing hotel development
experience  to the management side of Six Senses, I believe  this
is a win-win situation for both of us".