Thailand-based Onyx Hospitality Group has agreed a deal to manage the Herathera Island Resort on behalf of Maldives Tourism Development Corporation.

Set on Addu, the southernmost atoll in the Maldives, the 273-villa resort features three natural lagoons, a turtle hatchery and a 4km private beach.

Onyx will take over the management of the resort in December and will commence an extensive redevelopment programme of the resort - including work on the resort’s spa.

To take place throughout 2011, the upgrades will also include enhancements to the beach and villas as well as the addition of sports and children's facilities.

When completed, the resort will be re-branded and operated under Onyx's flagship Amari-brand.

Facilities at the resort currently include a large spa, three swimming pools, a range of restaurants and bars and a diving centre.

MTDC's Chief Executive Officer, Mohammed Mihad noted: "We are focused on further developing the southern part of the Maldives with Gan International Airport as the hub. The re-launch of Herathera under new management will play a significant part in this."

Earlier this year, Onyx was appointed to operate the 78-room boutique property, Vogue Resort & Spa Ao Nang on behalf of the Vogue Pranang Bay Resort company.