KSL Capital Partners has taken majority ownership of Soneva, the luxury resort group that pioneers sustainable hospitality in the Maldives. By converting its existing securities, KSL shifts from a minority investor to the principal owner of Soneva, signaling a strong commitment to the brand’s future. This move clearly positions KSL to lead Soneva’s growth while maintaining its focus on eco-conscious, experiential luxury travel in one of the world’s most exclusive destinations.
The Soneva Brand and KSL Capital Partners’ Evolving Partnership
Founded in 1995 by Sonu and Eva Shivdasani, Soneva has established itself as a pioneer in sustainable ultra-luxury hospitality. The group operates flagship resorts including Soneva Fushi, Soneva Jani, Soneva Secret, and the Soneva in Aqua yacht, all located in the Maldives. These properties focus on minimizing environmental impact, integrating guests with nature, and embracing a “slow life” philosophy centered on barefoot luxury and personalized experiences. This approach earns Soneva global recognition and a dedicated clientele seeking meaningful and sustainable luxury travel.
KSL Capital Partners first invested in Soneva in 2019 as a minority partner, acknowledging the brand’s unique position in sustainable luxury hospitality. Then, in 2025, KSL exercised its rights to convert its holdings, acquiring a majority stake in the company. With this shift, KSL takes a leading role to guide Soneva’s strategic direction and support its ongoing growth.
The Appointment of Neil Gallagher as CEO
To steer this next chapter, KSL has appointed Neil Gallagher as Soneva’s Chief Executive Officer. With over two decades of experience spanning Europe, the Middle East, the Americas, and the Caribbean, Gallagher brings a wealth of operational insight from his time at prominent groups such as Clermont Hotel Group, IHG Hotels & Resorts, and Marriott Vacation Club International.
Moving forward, Gallagher’s leadership will guide Soneva through its continued growth while maintaining the brand’s core values of sustainability and bespoke guest experiences.
KSL’s Majority Stake in Soneva: Focus and Expertise in Sustainable Luxury Hospitality
KSL Capital Partners’ acquisition of a majority stake in Soneva marks a significant development in the company’s ownership structure and reflects KSL’s ongoing commitment to the sustainable luxury travel sector. The Maldives remains a primary area of focus for Soneva under KSL’s majority ownership. Although no immediate operational changes have been announced, the strategic direction will prioritize consolidating Soneva’s presence in the Maldives while upholding the company’s founding principles of environmental stewardship and barefoot luxury.
In addition, KSL brings extensive experience in the travel and leisure industry, managing a diverse portfolio that includes hospitality, recreation, real estate, and travel services. The firm has supported premier luxury brands with operational expertise, positioning it well to assist Soneva in navigating the competitive ultra-luxury market. With this, the partnership reinforces the alignment between experiential travel and sustainability, a combination that many luxury travelers increasingly value.
Overall, KSL’s majority ownership in Soneva sets the foundation for continued growth within the framework of ecological responsibility and exceptional guest experiences. For the Maldives and the broader luxury hospitality industry, this transaction represents a convergence of investment and innovation focused on maintaining high standards of both environmental care and luxury.
