Published on 26/07/2025
In an emotional and exclusive interview with Spy Uganda’s Andrew Irumba, held recently, Ugandan business titan Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia officially revealed his latest luxury development—Paradise Resort, an extraordinary getaway situated not just beside Lake Victoria, but right within it, on a private island that has been completely reimagined into a tranquil haven of elegance and legacy.
According to Dr. Sudhir, Paradise Resort is not just another high-end addition to Uganda’s hospitality industry, it is a deeply personal and symbolic achievement, a vision brought to life in both grief and pride. The project was first initiated by Rajiv Ruparelia, Sudhir’s only son and heir, who unfortunately passed away before the resort’s completion.
The resort’s journey began years ago on a stretch of untouched sand. During a visit to the island with close friends, a young Rajiv Ruparelia found inspiration on its serene shores. Unaware of what the future would hold, he saw potential in the wilderness and laid the foundation of what would become his final contribution to the family’s enduring legacy.
The laying of that first brick marked more than the start of construction, it became a meaningful symbol of Rajiv’s creative spirit and his dedication to the family’s vision.
“Rajiv saw beyond the sand. He saw a paradise. Today, we have built that paradise—but he is not here to see it open. Yet, he is in every stone, every room, every breeze that moves across the lake.” Dr Sudhir said.
Bringing Paradise Resort to life took over five years of detailed planning and execution. From overcoming the logistical hurdles of building on an island to ensuring environmentally conscious infrastructure, the project pushed the limits of regional hospitality design and engineering.
The development, which cost over $35 million (UGX 130 billion), includes overwater villas, lakeside suites, world-class restaurants, private docking bays, wellness spas, and quiet nature trails—creating a seamless blend of modern luxury and natural serenity.
This exclusive retreat isn’t tailored for the average traveller. Paradise Resort is a destination for individuals who appreciate luxury in its most refined form—discreet, tranquil, and unforgettable.
With elegance into every detail, the resort invites its guests not just to stay—but to experience an immersive retreat where time slows, and every moment is curated with care.
Though the Ruparelia Group already operates some of Uganda’s top hospitality destinations—such as Speke Resort Munyonyo, Kabira Country Club, Dolphin Suites, and Bukoto Heights Apartments—Paradise Resort holds a unique place within the portfolio. It is not simply a business venture; it is Rajiv’s final vision, brought to life on the very island where his dream began.
This project is more than an expansion of Sudhir Ruparelia’s business legacy, it is an intimate and enduring memorial to his son.
Widely recognized as East Africa’s most influential business figure, Dr. Sudhir Ruparelia built the Ruparelia Group from a small forex operation into a sprawling enterprise encompassing finance, education, real estate, hospitality, agriculture, media, and more.
With Paradise Resort being complete, Sudhir is not merely a billionaire businessman, but a father paying tribute to his son’s dream.
“This resort is a living memory. Rajiv started it. We finished it for him. And now, Uganda owns it,” he said, his voice steady yet heavy with meaning.
Now open to the public, Paradise Resort offers an isolated and refined escape for travellers in search of peace, luxury, and unforgettable experiences. Built with love, guided by ambition, and marked by loss, this island sanctuary stands as a living celebration of Rajiv Ruparelia’s life and vision—an extraordinary legacy shared with the world.
