On May 22, the concept of Caucasus Mandili, the world's first Rotana-branded mountain resort, was officially unveiled at Stamba Hotel in Tbilisi. The project will become the first Rotana hotel located at a ski destination and is expected to establish a new benchmark for mountain tourism, hospitality, and hotel investment in Georgia.

The development brings together Georgian developer Pontus, UAE-based international hotel operator Rotana, and award-winning Italian architectural studio NOA, known for creating some of Europe's most recognized alpine hospitality projects.

Located in Gudauri, Georgia's premier ski resort, the project aims to transform the destination into a year-round tourism and investment hub.

Gudauri Strengthens Its Position as a Year-Round Tourism Destination

Gudauri is one of the most popular mountain resorts in the Caucasus and a growing destination for both tourism and real estate investment in Georgia.

While the resort is traditionally known for winter sports and skiing, increasing demand for year-round travel experiences has created new opportunities for hospitality development, hotel investments, and tourism infrastructure.

According to Pontus founder Irakli Varshalomidze, modern travelers are increasingly choosing destinations that offer wellness, recreation, entertainment, and outdoor activities throughout all seasons.

The Caucasus Mandili concept was created to meet this growing demand and support the long-term development of Gudauri as a four-season mountain destination.

Infrastructure Designed for Every Season

The new mountain resort will include a comprehensive hospitality ecosystem designed to attract visitors throughout the year.

Planned facilities include:

• SPA and wellness center
• Indoor and outdoor swimming pools
• Restaurants and bars
• Lounge and relaxation areas
• Meeting and event spaces
• Services for active mountain tourism
• Year-round recreational infrastructure

The goal is to create a destination that remains attractive for visitors, investors, and property owners beyond the winter ski season.

Rotana's First Mountain Resort Project

One of the project's defining features is its operation under the Rotana brand, one of the Middle East's leading hotel management companies.

Through a full-management model, Rotana will oversee all aspects of hotel operations, including:

• Guest experience
• Service standards
• Staff training
• Operational management
• Quality control

The project represents Rotana's first entry into the mountain hospitality segment and the company's first ski resort hotel worldwide.

For Gudauri, it marks the arrival of one of the world's most recognized hospitality brands and further strengthens Georgia's position on the international tourism map.

Architecture Inspired by Georgian Culture

The architectural concept was created by Italian studio NOA, internationally recognized for its innovative alpine hospitality projects.

Among the firm's most notable developments are:

• Hotel Hubertus
• Hub of Huts
• Zallinger
• Ötzi Peak at 3,251 meters above sea level

The design of Caucasus Mandili draws inspiration from the traditional Georgian Mandili, a symbolic headscarf deeply rooted in local culture.

Its form has been reinterpreted through the building's silhouette and roof structure, creating a modern architectural landmark that reflects the identity of Georgia's mountain regions.

The concept was developed by NOA co-founder Lukas Rungger, one of Europe's leading specialists in alpine architecture and high-altitude hospitality design.

Economic Impact and Tourism Development

According to the project's developers, Caucasus Mandili is expected to contribute significantly to the local economy and tourism sector.

Key anticipated benefits include:

• Creation of new jobs
• Attraction of international investment
• Expansion of tourism infrastructure
• Increased demand for real estate in Gudauri
• Strengthening Georgia's global tourism competitiveness

The development represents an important step in the transformation of Gudauri into a world-class mountain destination capable of welcoming guests throughout the year.

Hotel Investment Opportunity in Gudauri

In addition to its tourism significance, Caucasus Mandili will offer a unique hotel investment opportunity in Georgia.

Private investors will be able to participate in the development of the world's first Rotana-branded mountain resort through a dedicated investment program.

The project may be particularly attractive for those interested in:

• Hotel investment in Georgia
• Real estate investment in Gudauri
• Investment property in ski resorts
• Hospitality investment opportunities
• Branded hotel developments
• Passive income through tourism real estate

Detailed information regarding the investment program, unit availability, and participation terms will be announced following the official launch of sales.

(AD)