Emirates and Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) have entered into an agreement to launch Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge. This 40-key, all-inclusive luxury lodge is set to open in mid-2026 on a 7,000-acre conservancy in Australia’s Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area. It marks the global debut of The Ritz-Carlton Lodge and represents a significant milestone for regional luxury tourism in New South Wales (NSW).
The Ritz-Carlton Lodges are crafted as purpose-built sanctuaries that blend with their natural surroundings while prioritizing minimal environmental impact. They deliver an enhanced sense of luxury, comfort, and craftsmanship typical of The Ritz-Carlton brand. This project aims to set a new standard for luxury travel and invigorate the region’s tourism offerings.
Since 2006, Emirates has invested AU$150 million in the Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort, focusing on environmental and cultural heritage preservation. Efforts have included restoring historically significant landmarks and implementing conservation programs to revive indigenous flora and fauna, including the planting of over one million native trees. Emirates is now investing an additional AU$50 million in renovations, collaborating with Marriott to transform the property into a world-class expression of The Ritz-Carlton’s legendary service and refined design.
Despite the closure of Wolgan Valley Road in 2023, Emirates has maintained the site with a small team of locally employed staff. The opening of the lodge is expected to create approximately 150 jobs in the community, with increased opportunities for local suppliers, thereby contributing to the local economy.
Guests will access the resort via a four-wheel drive service through the Donkey Steps, enhancing the rural off-road experience, or by helicopter.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, stated, “In our 30 years of operations in Australia, Emirates has consistently sought to deliver value to our customers and to Australia. Our commitment extends beyond air transport services, reflected in our enduring relationships with industry partners and active community engagement through Emirates Wolgan Valley.”
Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International, expressed, “We are honored to collaborate with Emirates on this milestone development. Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge will be a major attraction for our 260 million loyal Marriott Bonvoy members globally, particularly with plans for immersive experiences that connect them with the local area.”
The lodge will offer an immersive sanctuary that harmonizes wilderness with comfort. Inspired by traditional Australian homesteads, it will provide unique experiences led by expert guides. Nestled within a conservation reserve, the lodge occupies less than two percent of the protected wilderness, ensuring seclusion and exclusive access to pristine landscapes and rare native flora and fauna.
The demand for premium, nature-based experiences is high. Tourism Research Australia reports regional NSW welcomed 15.5 million domestic visitors in the quarter to September 2025, generating AU$5.9 billion in visitor spend. International arrivals contributed an additional 727,300 visitors and $1.2 billion in spend.
The lodge is expected to feature 40 elegantly appointed lodges, each with private pools and bespoke amenities. It will offer a signature sleep-out experience, where guests can enjoy a guided journey into the wilderness, culminating in an outdoor meal and campfire relaxation under a starlit sky.
The design plans for the main homestead include a sophisticated sanctuary with a welcoming arrival lounge, a signature restaurant, a lounge bar, and a wine room. Renovated recreational spaces will honor wellbeing and the natural environment, featuring an outdoor pool, tennis courts, equestrian stables, a fitness center, and The Ritz-Carlton Spa. The lodge will also feature a naturalist hub for conservation-led experiences, connecting guests with the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains.
This project complements The Ritz-Carlton brand’s existing presence in Australia, including The Ritz-Carlton, Perth, and The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne.
