Emirates and Marriott International have announced a partnership to launch Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge, set within a 7,000-acre conservation reserve in Australia’s Greater Blue Mountains.
The 40-key all-inclusive luxury lodge is slated to open in mid-2026, marking the first Ritz-Carlton Lodge globally and a major boost for regional tourism in New South Wales.
The lodge will blend refined luxury with nature, occupying less than two percent of the protected reserve. Guests will experience private pools, bespoke amenities, and signature wilderness activities, including a guided sleep-out under the night sky. The design draws inspiration from the historic 1832 homestead and aims to preserve local flora and fauna, featuring conservation-led programs and over one million newly planted native trees.
Emirates has invested AU$150 million in Wolgan Valley since 2006 and will contribute an additional AU$50 million for renovations in collaboration with Marriott. The project is expected to recreate around 150 local jobs and strengthen partnerships with regional suppliers, further supporting the local economy.
Access to the lodge will be via four-wheel drive or helicopter, offering an immersive connection to the surrounding wilderness. Recreational facilities will include an outdoor pool, tennis courts, equestrian stables, a modern fitness center, and The Ritz-Carlton Spa. A naturalist hub will provide curated experiences to engage guests with the UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes and wildlife.
Sir Tim Clark, Emirates President, highlighted the project’s potential to combine luxury travel with regional economic growth, while Rajeev Menon of Marriott described the lodge as a milestone for luxury tourism in New South Wales. Emirates Wolgan Valley will complement Marriott’s existing Ritz-Carlton properties in Perth and Melbourne, reinforcing the brand’s presence in Australia.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
