Unveiled by Acting Prime Minister Hon. Filimoni Vosarogo (below), the resort blends contemporary design with authentic Fijian warmth – but it is the state-of-the-art convention centre that is already turning heads across the region.
Themed “black tie with an oceanic twist,” the opening night was a spectacular celebration and even a tropical downpour that started promptly at 5 pm as the event commenced didn’t dampen spirits.
Champagne flowed as a long list of VIPs gathered to witness this new chapter in Fiji’s tourism story.
The guest list read like a who’s who of national leadership, including three former Prime Ministers, the Acting Prime Minister, the Deputy Prime Minister, senior government officials, tourism executives and key industry partners.
Their presence alone underscored the significance of the investment and the confidence it represents for Fiji’s future.
Adding a deeply personal and emotional moment to the festivities, resort owner Mr. Jay Singh (below) delivered a heartfelt address reflecting on his return to his Fijian roots.
“My dream was to build a property that would showcase Fiji to the world, capturing its trademark Bula hospitality,” he said.
“Tonight is more than a celebration. It’s the story of a young boy from a small coastal village who never imagined he’d be standing here.
“Though I’ve lived in the United States for many years, my heart never left Fiji. Now it’s time to give back to the land and the people who made me who I am.”
Singh spoke openly about the decision to reinvest in Fiji during COVID, noting the acquisition of the Pullman property and the opportunity to bring something bold and uniquely Fijian to the market.
“With that dream came the Crowne Plaza Nadi Bay Resort,” he added.
He paid warm tribute to the project’s entire team, offering emotional acknowledgements to his wife, daughters and late father – a moment that resonated strongly with the crowd, many of whom have watched the country’s tourism sector grow alongside Singh’s own journey.
A Major Step Forward for Fiji’s MICE Sector
The resort’s new 600-seat convention centre is set to redefine Fiji’s capabilities in the meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) market.
Built to international specifications, the venue offers flexible meeting rooms, advanced audiovisual technology, breakout spaces and seamless flow for multi-day or large-scale events – all within minutes of Nadi International Airport.
This enhanced infrastructure places Fiji in direct competition with established regional business events hubs and offers a compelling alternative built on convenience, professionalism and unmistakable Pacific charm.
Supporting the convention centre are 300 premium guest rooms, multiple dining outlets, expansive pools and a spa showcasing Pacific wellness traditions.
The combined offering directly targets the growing “bleisure” trend, giving event organisers everything they need to create memorable, work-meets-play experiences.
Economic Impact and Sustainability Front and Centre
In his address, Acting Prime Minister Vosarogo highlighted tourism’s pivotal role in Fiji’s economic growth, citing a five per cent increase in arrivals in 2024 and close to 983,000 international visitors.
He emphasised the industry’s broad reach, supporting farmers, taxi operators, entertainers, market vendors, artisans and small businesses nationwide.
The redevelopment of the Nadi Bay site has already generated hundreds of construction jobs and will continue to strengthen local supply chains as the convention centre attracts larger and more lucrative business events to Fiji.
Vosarogo also underscored the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism, stressing the need to protect Fiji’s reefs, forests, land and marine biodiversity – the natural treasures that define the nation’s global appeal.
He thanked the Vanua of Nadi, investors and partners, reaffirming that tourism growth must remain inclusive and beneficial to landowners and indigenous enterprises.
A Bright New Benchmark for Fiji
With its global brand strength, modern facilities and signature Fijian service, the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa stands as a bold statement of Fiji’s confidence and ambition.
Its convention centre, in particular, marks a strategic leap forward – one that positions Fiji as a serious contender on the international business events stage.
The night ended in true celebratory style with a bold and brilliant fireworks display, followed by an after-party that continued into the early hours at the resort’s stylish, sophisticated Latitude Bar.
www.Crowneplazanadifijiresortandsp
