The redevelopment of the Pirates Arms complex in Victoria is progressing, with foundation works already underway and concrete being poured on-site.
Nisreen Abdul Majid, the Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Pension Fund (SPF), provided this update during a recent press conference following the submission of the SPF’s Annual Report to the Ministry of Finance, National Planning, and Trade. She confirmed that pillars are beginning to rise, and the project, now valued at SCR 206 million, is expected to be completed by the fourth quarter of 2026. The Pirates Arms development is one of several key investments being made by the SPF to boost economic activity and ensure long-term returns for the pension fund’s contributors.
The project was initially launched during a bricklaying ceremony in November 2023, which marked the beginning of an ambitious plan to blend cultural heritage with modern architecture. At that time, the construction contract was awarded to Mahe Design and Build for a value of SCR 207 million, excluding VAT.
This seven-storey complex is being built on a 15,130-square-metre plot and will feature dual façades connecting Independence Avenue to the stadium parking area. It is set to include two signature restaurants, three additional food outlets, a food court, a 47-room business hotel, retail spaces, a gym, conference rooms, a beauty salon, and a barbershop. The ground floor will house the iconic Pirates Restaurant, maintaining its original design, along with a pedestrian-friendly corridor linking both access points.
The design incorporates traditional Kaz Colonial elements, complete with wrap-around balconies, expansive terraces, and decorative features inspired by Seychelles’ architectural identity. The building will have three passenger lifts, one service lift, a rubbish chute, fireproof stairwells, and restrooms on every floor. It will be constructed with durable materials such as Mahe Grey and Praslin Pink granite to reflect the natural landscape.
During the launch, the SPF also introduced its “white box” business concept, which offers commercial units equipped with water and electricity provisions while allowing tenants the flexibility to design their interiors to meet their specific needs.
President Wavel Ramkalawan, who attended the November ceremony, reflected on the historic and emotional significance of the original Pirates Arms building. He spoke about its role as a cultural and political gathering space and expressed hope that the new development would restore the heart of Victoria, providing a place where the Creole community and visitors could reconnect in a spirit of freedom, friendship, and opportunity.
The Pirates Arms building was well-known among locals and visitors for its restaurant serving popular Creole dishes and featured performances by renowned local artists. For over 60 years, it was a gathering point for many and a place to socialise with friends in the heart of Victoria. The old building, acquired by the SPF in 2006, was demolished in 2016.
The ceremony also included remarks from SPF Chair Shella Mohideen and CEO Nisreen Abdul Majid, both of whom described the project as a legacy development and a symbol of national progress and unity.
Source: SPF
