NASSAU — The Chairmen of Baha Mar Ltd. and Melia Hotels International have signed an agreement for Melia to operate the all-inclusive Melia at Baha Mar, in the luxury leisure development Baha Mar.

The US$3.5 billion investment, comprised of 1,000 acres with more than 3,000 feet of oceanfront, is just 12 minutes from Nassau International Airport.

Baha Mar, one of the most important destination transformation projects currently taking place in the world, will now include five hotels, private residences, gaming, golf, shopping, entertainment and natural attractions.

In addition to Melia at Baha Mar, the portfolio of Baha Mar properties will feature other prestigious international brands including Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, Mondrian and Grand Hyatt, all anchored by its impressive centrepiece, The Baha Mar Casino & Hotel.

The Bahamas’ newest luxury lifestyle destination will offer more than 2,900 hotel rooms and residences, overlooking a white sandy beach and pristine turquoise waters. World-class amenities include the 100,000 square foot casino, an 18-hole, 72-par Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course and ESPA spa and more than a dozen pools.

A dedicated on-site convention centre will be the cornerstone for the approximately 200,000 square feet devoted to meeting and conventions facilities.

On Dec. 1, 2013, Melia will take over the operation of the Melia Nassau Beach Resort. The Melia Nassau Beach Resort, featuring 694 rooms and multiple spaces for meetings and conventions, will be executing a renewal plan that will be completed by December 2014, without any interruption to the guest experience.

Upon completion of renovations and simultaneously with the opening of Baha Mar, it will be renamed Melia at Baha Mar.