As of 1^st January 2017, Seychelles has reported a 19% year-on-year increase in tourists from the UAE, and Eden Island, the 56-hectare residential and commercial marina development, has welcomed many of them in its luxury accommodation.

In an exclusive interview with InBusiness.ae, Justin Arenhold, Business Development Manager, Eden Island explains how the project has drawn significant interest from investors, specifically coming from the GCC.

 

When is the best time to visit the Seychelles?

Seychelles enjoys a wonderful tropical climate all year round, with few extremes in weather conditions, temperatures rarely fall below 24 degrees or rise above 30 degrees and with the geography of the island there are always so many fantastic choices in regards to beautiful beaches, secluded coves and diving and sailing options.

What is the favourite type of lodging for UAE tourists visiting Eden Island? 

There is great deal of interest from all sections of the UAE market ranging from 1 Bedroom Apartments to 5 Bedroom Villas. That said, we have experienced a great uptake on family getaways and the preferred choice of residence for this profile of visitor to Eden Island is in our larger Deluxe Maisons and Villas portfolio all with superb locations and private pools.

 

What are the rental options that you offer?

The properties are magnificently located on waterfront marinas and all Villas have unique ocean views, large balconies, high ceilings and spacious rooms all fitted with high end luxury design elements and all the necessary services.

Eden Island Luxury Accommodation has a varied offering which caters for all length of stays from Short Term daily stays under our resort leisure platform to Long Term leased options for the more permanent resident. We currently manage 70 properties ranging from One Bedroom Apartments to 5 Bedroom Vilas under our short-term Resort portfolio, and a further 120 properties under our long-term leased portfolio.

How has your rental business grown in the past year?

We have seen a great deal of interest and growth from the UAE in particular. With flying time of only 4,5 hours and ease of access via two flights per day, 7 days per week out of Dubai and Abu Dhabi we are certainly a very attractive and easy leisure destination to access.

How do you assess GCC investors’ interest in the project?

One of the key elements both from a sale of property and from a rental perspective is the clustering effect. We have found that family and friends of family have either bought a unit once the others have bought or travelled together when they visit. Also, we have already had return visitors who come back year after ear, and this is particularly relevant with GCC investors and visitors. There are many owners who have bought multiple properties of Eden Island so that when they come to visit they are able to use each of the units for the extended family. In addition, on the sales side, we are seeing increased interest in the rental returns that can be generated from an investment property.

 

What are your expectations for 2017?

We are very excited about the year ahead. As we continue to grow our leisure portfolio and with increased daily international flights we are looking forward to a very positive growth in visitor numbers, all looking to experience the incredibly unique location, facilities and services that Eden Island and Seychelles have to offer.

According to you, what are the top three things to experience in the Seychelles?

The attractions to all ocean related activities are one of the biggest draw cards to Eden Island and Seychelles, in particular the incredible beaches, sailing and diving options. Not forgetting island hopping options to Praslin and La Digue and a visit to the World Heritage site Vallée de Mer the home of the Coco de Mer. Another very important factor is the privacy that Eden Island and Seychelles offer to property owners and visitors.