DB's Hard Rock Hotel to open this summer in St George's Bay

The Hard Rock Hotel, a part of the DB project in St George's Bay, is nearing completion and due to open this summer, the prime minister was told during a visit to the site.

The project, representing an investment of around €320 million, is intended to further strengthen Malta’s position as a high-end tourism destination, the Office of the Prime Minister said in a statement.

"The hotel is being developed with a strong emphasis on sustainability and is expected to become Hard Rock’s flagship property not only in Europe, but also across Africa and the Middle East."

The development will include 397 rooms, the largest wellness facilities in Malta and what is expected to be the country’s largest shopping centre.

During his visit, Abela said the investment was further proof of investors' confidence in Malta, its economy and tourism industry.

He noted that the project was being delivered at a time of international challenges, when many other countries were facing instability, in contrast to Malta.

Abela also referred to newly introduced regulations within the hospitality sector, which he said would continue to raise quality standards. He stressed that tourism plays a crucial role in driving the strong economic growth Malta is currently experiencing.

He reiterated that the government’s aim is not simply to consolidate past gains, but to continue pushing towards an increasingly sustainable tourism model.

The prime minister meets workers during his visit.

DB Group chairperson Silvio Debono said the project was encouraging the company to expand its vision with greater confidence and ambition.

“We will continue investing in Malta and attracting global brands that contribute to higher quality and positive development,” he said.

DB Group chief executive Robert Debono said the project is expected to attract more visitors and residents seeking quality experiences, who contribute more to the economy while having a lower environmental impact. 

The DB project was the source of heated controversy for the best part of six years, with neighbours criticising it for its bulk. It was subject to several court cases. The PA approved plans for a 17-storey tower and an 18-storey tower, alongside a 12-storey hotel at the site in 2021. The db Group was given the green light by the Planning Authority to add an extra seven floors to the towers last year.

The media was not invited to the prime minister's visit.