Hotel Developments Across Crete and Lisbon, Along with Other Unnoticed Hotel News of the Past Week

Exciting New Luxury Hotel Openings and Upcoming Projects

In the world of luxury travel, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year with several new hotel openings and upcoming projects in Dubai, Lisbon, Sydney, and other key destinations.

Dubai

The UAE's first Baccarat Hotel, the Baccarat Hotel & Residences Dubai, is set to open in late 2026. Designed by Studio Libeskind, the twin towers will feature 145 rooms and exclusive branded residences, along with a grand restaurant adorned with Baccarat crystal décor and a significant bar for cocktails. Another anticipated opening is the Rosewood Dubai, scheduled for 2029 in Peninsula Dubai. This ultra-luxury hotel will boast 195 rooms, eight private garden villas, four dining venues, a wellness center, a children’s Explorers Club, private beach access, and cultural programming.

The Mandarin Oriental Downtown Dubai is expected to open in October 2025, offering 259 rooms and suites, two restaurants, a fitness center, spa, and outdoor pool, with rates starting around $590 per night. Dubai is also hosting the first ever Private Luxury Dubai event in 2026, a landmark gathering for luxury travel and hospitality professionals.

Lisbon

Andaz Lisbon, by Hyatt, is expected to open in early 2026, featuring 170 guest rooms and suites offering views of São Jorge Castle and the Tagus River. The hotel will offer several dining options and other amenities, with rates starting around $260 per night.

Sydney

Marking the brand’s Australia debut, the 25hours Hotel The Olympia is set to open in September 2025 with 109 rooms, 4 dining options, bike rentals, and a gift shop. Rates start at about $230 per night, and redeeming points from Accor Live Limitless covers €40 (roughly $47) of the bill.

Beyond These Destinations

Many other new luxury hotels are opening across major cities globally in 2026, including properties from brands like Pendry, Four Seasons, and Park Hyatt in various spectacular locations. In Australia's Sunshine Coast, the Crowne Plaza Maroochydore will open with 180 guest rooms and amenities such as a pool and spa, a gym, sauna, an all-day restaurant, and an outdoor pool bar.

In California, the Home2 Suites by Hilton Rohnert Park Sonoma County has already opened, offering 95 rooms and amenities such as apartment-style accommodations, a fitness center, outdoor space with fire pits, and an outdoor heated pool. On the Greek island of Crete, Tella Thera, a Member of Design Hotels, has opened, offering 20 rooms with 17 having private plunge pools.

Other Notable Mentions

The Hollywood Grande, Autograph Collection, has officially joined Marriott's Autograph Collection in Los Angeles, with 190 guest rooms and suites. The Fontainebleau Miami Beach announced plans to update its outdoor pool deck next year, including water slides, new pools, family attractions, and new food and beverage offerings.

Aman at Sea will set sail in the spring of 2027 with Amangati, a 47-room superyacht, offering journeys to Spain, the Greek Isles, Türkiye, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast. IHG recently hit 1 million rooms open worldwide, with recent openings including Kimpton Mas Olas Resort & Spa in Mexico and voco Malta.

For those looking to save on their stays, Ennismore's Dis-Loyalty program offers a 50% discount on new hotels within 3 months of opening and 10% off every return stay for $18 per month. Award nights at Andaz Lisbon will cost 21,000 World of Hyatt points per night during off-peak dates, 25,000 points per night during standard dates, and 29,000 points per night during peak dates.

These exciting new hotel openings and upcoming projects are set to redefine luxury travel experiences across the globe. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a touch of opulence, there's a new luxury hotel waiting to welcome you in 2026 and beyond.

Hotel Developments Across Crete and Lisbon, Along with Other Unnoticed Hotel News of the Past Week