MARAEY tourist-residential complex begins construction in Maricá, Brazil

Construction of the MARAEY tourist‑residential project has started in Maricá, Brazil. The first phase currently employs about 60 workers, with plans to reach 260 by September. The works include site preparation, fauna and flora handling, and initial infrastructure such as drainage, water supply, electricity, lighting, telecommunications, sewage collection and treatment, paving, sidewalks, signage, and more than 20 km of cycle lanes. New road links will connect Itaipuaçu, the city centre and Ponta Negra.

The development reserves 81 % of its 440 ha area for preservation or recovery, establishing a 440‑ha private natural heritage reserve, regenerating over 270 ha of native vegetation and creating an Environmental Reference Centre. The first phase carries an investment of R$ 4.5 billion (total project R$ 11 billion) and will host three luxury Marriott hotels – a Ritz‑Carlton Reserve, a JW Marriott all‑inclusive, and a Rock in Rio Autograph Collection – plus 392 branded residences, a hospitality school and other amenities.

MARAEY will offer 2,300 professional‑training slots by the end of 2026 in construction, tourism and hospitality, aiming to generate about 9,000 direct jobs during construction through 2030 and many permanent positions thereafter. Local officials, including Mayor Washington Quaquá and project CEO Emilio Izquierdo, highlighted the project's expected boost to the municipal economy and its commitment to sustainable development.