Luxury travel continues to evolve, and 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for new hotel openings around the world. From private island resorts in the Maldives to ultra‑exclusive desert retreats in Mexico, some extraordinary properties are welcoming guests for the first time.
For travellers planning their next long‑haul escape, here are 10 of the most exciting luxury hotel openings of 2026.
And of course, SkyClub can help arrange the entire journey — from premium flights to excellent hotel rates at these properties and many others worldwide.
1. Bulgari Resort Ranfushi Maldives
Official website: https://www.bulgarihotels.com/en_US/ranfushi
Nearest international airport: Velana International Airport (Malé, Maldives)
The Bulgari brand brings its signature Italian glamour to the Maldives with this spectacular private‑island resort in the Raa Atoll. The resort will feature just 54 villas, including beach villas and overwater villas, plus an ultra‑exclusive Bulgari Villa on its own island. Highlights include multiple fine‑dining venues, a Bulgari Spa, and pristine lagoon waters perfect for snorkelling and diving.
2. Capella Kyoto
Official website: https://capellahotels.com/en/capella-kyoto
Nearest international airport: Kansai International Airport (Osaka, Japan)
Opening in Kyoto’s historic Miyagawa‑chō district, Capella Kyoto blends traditional Japanese architecture with contemporary luxury. The property will offer 89 rooms and suites, plus a spa with private onsen rooms and serene gardens.
3. Amanvari (Baja California, Mexico)
Official website: https://www.aman.com/resorts/amanvari
Nearest international airport: Los Cabos International Airport (San José del Cabo, Mexico)
Aman’s newest property sits on the Sea of Cortez, surrounded by desert landscapes and ocean views. With just 18 guest casitas, the resort promises privacy, wellness experiences, and direct access to adventure activities.
4. Raffles Jeddah
Official website: https://www.raffles.com/jeddah
Nearest international airport: King Abdulaziz International Airport (Jeddah, Saudi Arabia)
Located on the Red Sea coastline, this new Raffles property will feature 182 guestrooms and 120 residences with private terraces overlooking the water. Luxury dining, expansive spa facilities, and contemporary design inspired by local craftsmanship make this a top-tier destination in Saudi Arabia.
5. Nihi Rote (Indonesia)
Official website: https://nihiroteisland.com/
Nearest international airport: El Tari International Airport (Kupang, Indonesia)
From the founders of the celebrated Nihi Sumba comes a new resort on the remote island of Rote. The property will feature handcrafted villas, outdoor adventure experiences, and wellness programs built around the brand’s “Wild Wellness” philosophy.
6. The Langham Custom House Bangkok
Official website: https://www.langhamhotels.com/en/the-langham/bangkok/
Nearest international airport: Suvarnabhumi Airport (Bangkok, Thailand)
Set along the Chao Phraya River, this new Langham property incorporates the historic 1888 Custom House building, blending heritage architecture with modern luxury. Expect signature Langham hospitality, a Chuan Spa, and world‑class dining overlooking Bangkok’s riverfront.
7. Rosewood Mandarina (Mexico)
Official website: https://www.rosewoodhotels.com/en/mandarina
Nearest international airport: Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport (Puerto Vallarta, Mexico)
Set along Mexico’s Pacific coast, Rosewood Mandarina is part of a luxury resort development surrounded by jungle, beaches, and mountains. Private villas, wellness facilities, and dramatic coastal scenery make this a standout Latin American retreat.
8. Nekajui Ritz‑Carlton Reserve (Costa Rica)
Official website: https://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/lirrz-nekajui-peninsula-papagayo-a-ritz-carlton-reserve/overview/
Nearest international airport: Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (Liberia, Costa Rica)
One of the most exclusive properties in the Ritz‑Carlton portfolio, Nekajui will feature private villas and suites overlooking Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline. The Reserve brand is known for extreme privacy, exceptional service, and immersive natural experiences.
9. Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique
Official website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/lirguwa-waldorf-astoria-costa-rica-punta-cacique/
Nearest international airport: Juan Santamaría International Airport (San José, Costa Rica)
This cliffside resort overlooking Playa Penca brings the Waldorf Astoria brand’s signature luxury to Costa Rica. Guests can enjoy ocean‑view suites, world‑class dining, and a focus on sustainability and wellness.
10. KAIA Koh Phangan (Thailand)
Official website: https://www.kaiaresorts.com
Nearest international airport: Samui International Airport (Koh Samui, Thailand)
From the team behind Capella Bangkok, KAIA introduces eco‑luxury with 31 ocean‑facing tented suites and villas designed for open‑air living. The resort focuses heavily on sustainability, local cuisine, and nature‑based experiences.
Planning Your Next Luxury Escape
These hotels represent some of the most exciting new long‑haul luxury destinations opening around the world in 2026.
Whether you’re planning a private‑island escape in the Maldives, a cultural journey through Japan, or a beach retreat in Mexico or Costa Rica, SkyClub can arrange both your premium flights and hotel stays.
Our travel specialists can also help secure excellent hotel rates at these new properties and many other luxury hotels worldwide, ensuring your entire trip is seamless from departure to arrival.
Written by the SkyClub Travel Specialists
SkyClub has been helping premium leisure and corporate travellers book business and first-class flights worldwide for over 30 years, managing thousands of itineraries annually. Our team combines real-world experience, airline expertise and industry insights to provide accurate, actionable advice for long-haul, multi-stop and luxury travel. SkyClub have a 5-star Trustpilot rating with thousands of positive reviews and bookings are ATOL, ABTA and IATA protected.
All content is reviewed for accuracy, updated regularly and based on verified booking data and customer experiences. SkyClub is a registered travel consultancy dedicated to trusted, seamless and informed travel planning.
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