Saudi Developer Targets Tokenization of Maldives Trump Hotel for U.S. Investors

A is pushing the boundaries of real estate later than securing financing for the tokenization of a Trump-branded resort in the Maldives. This development opens the door for U.S. retail investors to own a piece of the development via blockchain. Dar Global, a London-listed developer closely partnered with the Trump Organization, says it plans to issue tokens for up to 70% of the resort’s development fund.

The resort, named Trump International Hotel Maldives, will feature approximately 80 ultra-luxury beach and overwater villas, and is expected to launch by late 2028. Dar Global’s move is currently being described as the first of its kind globally, pioneering a tokenized hotel development where investors can participate from the construction phase, not just later than the property is completed.

A Reminder That Tokenization is the Future of Real Estate and Blockchain Innovation

By tokenizing 70% of its funding structure, is effectively making what is normally reserved for institutional or ultra-wealthy investors available to crypto users. Rather than waiting for the resort to be built and stabilize, token holders could potentially participate in value creation from day one. 

, executive vice president of the Trump Organization, praised the move, calling it a “benchmark for innovation in real-estate investment through tokenization.” For some in the r, the deal is a signal that blockchain isn’t just for trading or decentralized finance (DeFi) because it is now reshaping how luxury property is financed.

From Dar Global’s perspective, this tokenization model supports capital raising at scale without relying on just a few large investors. By tapping into the U.S. crypto market, they are casting a very wide net. They also retain 30–40% ownership of the project, suggesting they believe strongly in the long-term value of the resort.

The tokenization deal also shows how real estate tokenization is evolving both post-construction equity and development-phase financing, which could become a blueprint in high-capex hospitality or real estate projects.

Regulatory and Risk Factors Remain A Consideration

Dar Global is reportedly in discussions with the (SEC) to make the token sale available to U.S. retail investors. That opens up regulatory risk, considering that tokenized real estate, especially when tied to development-stage projects, could fall under strict securities laws. If these tokens are considered securities, Dar Global will need to navigate registration, disclosures, and possibly investor protection rules.

Additionally, the Trump brand brings its own attention and scrutiny. While Dar Global’s CEO Ziad El Chaar emphasized that their motivation is focused on innovation rather than politics, the involvement of the Trump name is likely to raise eyebrows within regulatory and public-policy circles.

If managed well, this could set a precedent for the future of hospitality financing. If not, regulatory hurdles or liquidity bottlenecks could limit its potential. Either way, it’s a landmark moment for tokenized real estate.