Modon Holding, the Abu Dhabi-based diversified real estate group, has completed the full acquisition of La Zagaleta, the owner-operator of the ultra-luxury La Zagaleta residential estate on Spain’s Costa del Sol. This landmark deal marks a pivotal milestone in Modon Holding’s strategy to broaden its international footprint within Europe’s high-end luxury real estate sector. La Zagaleta sits in the hills of Benahavís, a brief 20-minute drive from Marbella, and is widely recognised as one of the world’s most exclusive gated communities. The estate spans approximately 900 hectares and is home to more than 400 luxury villas and plots, with two private golf courses, an equestrian centre, a comprehensive set of sports amenities, and a private helipad. The natural landscape provides dramatic views over the Mediterranean, the Andalusian mountains, and the northern coast of Morocco, delivering a unique blend of seclusion and panoramic beauty. Residents enjoy notable privacy and security, while remaining within easy reach of the region’s renowned coastline, resort towns, and vibrant beach communities.
This acquisition extends beyond the La Zagaleta estate itself. It also encompasses Majarambuz, a planned development within the Castellar Development Plan near Sotogrande, historically known as Valderrama II. The combined land assets total 2.2 million square metres and are currently in the process of urbanisation, creating a substantial development pipeline that will enhance Modon Holding’s growing portfolio. The deal thus provides Modon with a robust platform to advance a dual strategy: enhancing luxury residential offerings at La Zagaleta and developing additional high-end projects through Majarambuz, thereby reinforcing Modon’s ambition to anchor its brand and legacy across Europe through carefully selected, prime locations.
Overview of La Zagaleta Estate
La Zagaleta stands as a benchmark in ultra-luxury living, and its prestige is underpinned by a meticulous approach to design, privacy, and service. Located in the verdant hills of Benahavís, the estate occupies a commanding position that affords residents sweeping views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Andalusian landscape. The 900-hectare expanse houses more than 400 villas and residential plots, underscoring its scale among Europe’s most exclusive private communities. Its dual private golf courses offer a sophisticated lifestyle option for residents, complementing a world-class equestrian centre and a wide array of sports facilities. A private helipad adds an additional layer of convenience and security for high-net-worth individuals who value swift connections to international hubs and private travel arrangements. The estate’s layout and architectural guidance emphasise privacy, security, and exclusivity, ensuring that residents enjoy a sanctuary where discretion and luxury converge.
La Zagaleta’s natural surroundings play a central role in the estate’s appeal. The verdant hills provide a tranquil backdrop that balances the exclusivity of the community with a sense of openness and connection to nature. The property benefits from an elevated position that delivers spectacular views across the coastline toward Morocco, enhancing its allure for discerning buyers seeking a rare, private living environment. Accessibility remains straightforward, with proximity to Marbella’s cosmopolitan atmosphere, the region’s renowned beaches, and a network of marinas, cafes, and fine-dining options that characterise the Costa del Sol. The estate’s infrastructure is designed to support a high-end lifestyle while preserving the environmental integrity of the hillside setting, in line with contemporary sustainability principles that guide luxury developments.
Within La Zagaleta, residents have access to a curated range of facilities and services that collectively elevate the living experience. The two golf courses provide world-class playing conditions, with carefully maintained fairways, practice facilities, and club facilities that foster a sense of community among residents and visiting golfers alike. The equestrian centre offers equestrian activities and support services for riders of varying levels, complementing the broader sporting amenities that contribute to a holistic wellness and lifestyle philosophy. The sports facilities are designed to cater to a broad spectrum of activities, ensuring that residents have ample opportunities to pursue fitness and recreation without leaving the estate. The private nature of the community, combined with professional security measures, contributes to the sense of safety and privacy that is central to La Zagaleta’s identity.
The acquisition also opens a path toward meaningful development opportunities. The land area associated with La Zagaleta, together with Majarambuz, expands Modon Holding’s capacity to deliver a pipeline of premium residential offerings and hospitality experiences. The 2.2 million square metres of land bank present substantial potential for carefully planned growth that aligns with Modon’s overarching strategy to build a portfolio of landmark luxury assets. The integration of Majarambuz within the Castellar Development Plan near Sotogrande adds a further layer of strategic depth, given Sotogrande’s status as a premier enclave recognized for its luxury living, elite golf, and international appeal. The expansion plan leverages Modon’s expertise in managing large-scale developments while maintaining a steadfast commitment to high-quality design, sustainability, and seamless operational execution.
Majarambuz and Castellar Development Plan
The Majarambuz parcel sits within the Castellar Development Plan in the vicinity of Sotogrande, an area long associated with prestige, exclusive communities, and high-end leisure amenities. Historically known as Valderrama II in development circles, Majarambuz represents a strategic opportunity to extend Modon’s presence beyond La Zagaleta and into a closely linked, well-regarded development corridor. The inclusion of Majarambuz broadens Modon’s ability to create a composite luxury experience that integrates residential living with hospitality, leisure, and amenity-driven ecosystems. The site’s location near Sotogrande, which features some of Spain’s finest golf courses, marinas, and cultural offerings, provides a natural draw for ultraluxury buyers seeking a holistic lifestyle that blends private, serene living with access to world-class leisure activities.
Urbanisation of the Majarambuz land bank, totaling 2.2 million square metres, is underway. The process of urbanisation generally involves planning, infrastructure development, and regulatory approvals that enable the phased release of land for residential and commercial use. This development sequence is designed to deliver incremental value while maintaining a disciplined approach to environmental stewardship, architectural quality, and community design. The Majarambuz project is expected to contribute a significant pipeline of premium residential units, complemented by hospitality components that align with the broader Modon Holding strategy of delivering luxury experiences at scale. The near-term outlook envisages an integrated development framework where residential volumes are harmoniously balanced with hospitality offerings, ensuring a diversified revenue stream and a sustainable long-term value proposition for investors and residents alike.
From a strategic perspective, Majarambuz strengthens Modon Holding’s ability to pursue a cohesive European presence. The planned developments are designed to mirror the brand’s standards of exclusivity, privacy, and security while emphasising sustainable design and operation. The Castellar corridor near Sotogrande is particularly attractive given its established reputation as a destination for high-net-worth individuals and families seeking privacy, security, and access to premium amenities. This alignment with Sotogrande’s prestige supports Modon’s aim to position La Zagaleta and Majarambuz as anchors in a broader European portfolio that can offer a consistently elevated luxury living experience across multiple, carefully selected locations.
Modon Holding: A Strategic Move for International Growth
Jassem Mohammed Bu Ataba Al Zaabi, the chairman of Modon Holding, underscored the acquisition as a critical milestone in the company’s international growth trajectory. He described the La Zagaleta acquisition as a milestone that supports Modon’s vision to develop new possibilities for scaled luxury living. He emphasised that La Zagaleta ranks among the world’s most prestigious and exclusive private communities and represents a remarkable addition to Modon’s portfolio. The chairman’s comments highlight a deliberate strategy to secure flagship properties that align with Modon’s aspirations for premium living, while reinforcing the brand’s capacity to manage high-profile, luxury destinations within Europe. He stated that the acquisition sets a benchmark for future expansion, aligning with Modon’s ambition to consistently surpass expectations and unlock new potential for the company’s international real estate approach. The emphasis on scaling luxury living and maintaining a high standard of quality is central to Modon’s growth narrative, particularly as the company seeks to extend its La Zagaleta legacy across Europe.
Modon Holding has built a reputation for diversified real estate investments that span the UAE and international markets. The group’s strategic plan includes broadening the La Zagaleta brand and its associated lifestyle into Europe and beyond. This move is framed as a cornerstone of Modon’s broader strategy to acquire and operate high-end properties in prime locations, delivering exceptional luxury experiences while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and exclusivity. The acquisition thus reinforces Modon’s position as a facilitator of premium living, with an emphasis on creating enduring value through well-located, iconic real estate assets that resonate with an affluent international clientele. The leadership team’s emphasis on growth through select acquisitions signals a deliberate focus on properties with established reputations, robust development potential, and the capacity to scale internationally without compromising the distinctive identity that defines La Zagaleta.
Expanding the Legacy of La Zagaleta
Bill O’Regan, Group CEO of Modon Holding, highlighted the enduring appeal of La Zagaleta and the strengths that make it an attractive anchor for Modon’s European expansion. O’Regan noted La Zagaleta’s established reputation for quality in design and its comprehensive commitment to sustainability, which aligns with Modon’s own standards for responsible development and long-term stewardship. He commented that La Zagaleta offers a proven location for luxury living where privacy and security are integral to the resident experience, reinforcing the estate’s status as a coveted destination for discerning buyers seeking a private, safe environment. O’Regan also emphasised the strategic potential to extend La Zagaleta’s legacy through the Majarambuz development and to broaden the Zagaleta brand globally. This approach is positioned as a core element of Modon’s international real estate strategy, aiming to scale a proven model across additional properties while staying true to the principles of exclusivity, high design standards, and sustainable operation.
The La Zagaleta estate’s combination of world-class facilities, natural beauty, and a proven track record for attracting wealthy residents supports its attractiveness for Modon’s growth strategy. As Modon holds the asset’s reins, the company intends to preserve the authenticity of La Zagaleta’s brand while leveraging its prestige to unlock new growth opportunities in Majarambuz and related developments. The ability to integrate development plans with scalable luxury experiences aligns with Modon’s broader objective of delivering high-value assets that can appeal to international buyers seeking a curated, premium living environment. By expanding the estate’s reach through Majarambuz and leveraging the brand’s reputation, Modon aims to create a broader ecosystem of luxury living that can attract investment, foster tourism-related hospitality, and generate enduring value for stakeholders.
Ignacio Perez, executive chairman of La Zagaleta, expressed confidence in the estate’s future under Modon Holding’s stewardship. He pointed to La Zagaleta’s absolute commitment to quality across every aspect of the community, including design, amenities, and resident safety. Perez suggested that Modon’s backing will enable La Zagaleta to advance its next phase of development while realising the full potential of its brand. He conveyed optimism about the journey ahead, noting that the collaboration with Modon Holding will provide the necessary scale to broaden La Zagaleta’s reach and prestige. Perez’s remarks emphasise the continuity of the estate’s values and its readiness to evolve within a framework that continues to prioritise luxury, privacy, and security. The executive chairman’s perspective reinforces confidence that the La Zagaleta project will benefit from Modon’s resources and strategic approach, enabling a seamless, value-adding transition that preserves the estate’s enduring appeal.
Strategic Implications for Modon Holding’s Global Portfolio
The acquisition is widely regarded as a major step in Modon Holding’s ongoing diversification of its international portfolio, with a particular emphasis on luxury residential communities in high-demand international markets. The addition of La Zagaleta provides Modon with a globally recognised flagship asset that complements its existing investments in the UAE and its broader international footprint. The inclusion of Majarambuzwithin the Castellar Development Plan near Sotogrande further strengthens Modon’s ability to develop a multi-location luxury ecosystem, bridging iconic European settings with subsequent hospitality and residential opportunities. The acquisition underscores Modon Holding’s commitment to fostering innovation in real estate development while maintaining a steadfast emphasis on sustainability, exclusivity, and premium living standards. It signals a strategic readiness to pursue high-value, luxury-focused opportunities that can support a scalable, enduring growth trajectory across diverse markets.
Modon Holding’s strategic narrative emphasises the expansion of high-end experiences and the extension of premium brands across international markets. By acquiring La Zagaleta and pursuing Majarambuz development, Modon aims to create a cohesive, high-quality portfolio that resonates with affluent international buyers. The company’s approach reflects a belief that luxury living can be replicated and scaled within carefully chosen environments that align with Modon’s standards for superior design, environmental stewardship, and secure, private living. The combined assets are positioned to deliver a diversified stream of value through luxury residences, hospitality offerings, and curated experiences that align with the expectations of a discerning clientele.
The broader strategy also highlights Modon’s focus on leadership in sustainable development and responsible property management. The group’s investments in premier environments reflect a commitment to preserving natural surroundings, protecting ecosystems, and integrating sustainable practices into every stage of development and operation. In addition to property acquisition and development, Modon Holding’s strategy appears oriented toward cultivating communities that provide an elevated quality of life, durable asset value, and a strong track record for delivering premium experiences that remain resilient in changing markets. This holistic approach aims to strengthen Modon’s competitive position as a premier global player in luxury real estate, attracting both international buyers and long-term residents seeking a distinctive living environment.
Expanding the Legacy of La Zagaleta
Bill O’Regan’s remarks regarding La Zagaleta’s appeal signal a broader intent to leverage established reputations for scale and brand strength. He emphasised not only the estate’s existing allure but also the potential to extend its legacy through the Majarambuz development and to broaden the Zagaleta brand on an international level. This strategic vision positions La Zagaleta as a cornerstone of Modon’s ambition to amplify its presence in Europe while maintaining the distinctive character that has defined the estate since its inception. The prospect of expanding the brand across Majarambuz and other potential ventures reflects Modon’s aim to translate the estate’s premium attributes into a wider, globally recognisable luxury living proposition.
La Zagaleta’s status as a coveted, private, and secure enclave positions it well within Modon’s international growth blueprint. The estate’s established design ethos, combined with its suite of amenities and the surrounding natural beauty, offers a compelling platform for further development that can augment Modon’s portfolio with scalable, high-value opportunities. The prospect of aligning the Majarambuz development with La Zagaleta’s brand values supports a coherent, integrated growth strategy that emphasises quality, exclusivity, and a sustainable approach to development and management. The acquisition’s significance lies not only in the immediate assets acquired but also in the strategic doors opened for future expansion, collaboration, and the potential for a well-considered, long-term value creation for Modon Holding and its investors.
The broader market context reinforces Modon Holding’s approach. As demand for luxury residential communities in Europe remains robust among high-net-worth individuals seeking privacy, security, and bespoke living experiences, Modon’s investment in La Zagaleta represents a timely alignment with market dynamics. The combination of a globally recognised luxury brand, a large-scale land bank with development potential, and a pathway to operational hospitality offerings positions Modon to capitalise on continued interest in elite properties in Spain and across Europe. The company’s approach to acquisition and development—anchored by sustainability, exclusivity, and premium living standards—aims to deliver enduring value in an increasingly competitive luxury market.
Conclusion
Modon Holding’s completion of the La Zagaleta acquisition, together with its Majarambuz development plans within the Castellar Development Plan near Sotogrande, marks a defining moment in the company’s international expansion trajectory. The combination of an iconic luxury estate with a substantial land bank and a strategic development plan creates significant opportunities to deliver premium living experiences across Europe. The leadership’s clear emphasis on quality, sustainability, privacy, and security underpins Modon’s commitment to building a diversified portfolio of high-end properties in locations that offer enduring value and global appeal. As Modon continues to integrate La Zagaleta into its portfolio and expands the brand’s footprint through Majarambuz and related developments, the company positions itself to shape a new era of luxury real estate that blends world-class design with responsible stewardship and strategic scale. The market dynamics surrounding European luxury residential communities are favorable, and Modon’s strategic execution will be closely watched as the company works to realise the full potential of these assets while maintaining the stringent standards that define the La Zagaleta legacy.
