Emirates and Marriott International will reopen the Wolgan Valley property in Australia in 2026 as the world’s first Ritz-Carlton Lodge. A $50 million renovation and a nature-based luxury concept stand out.
Emirates Airlines and Marriott International have signed an agreement to reopen the Wolgan Valley luxury resort in Australia’s state of New South Wales—closed for nearly three years—under the world’s first Ritz-Carlton Lodge brand. This collaboration is regarded as a significant milestone for both the region and the global luxury tourism sector.
Luxury and Nature Together in a 7,000-Acre Conservation Area
Designed to operate entirely on an all-inclusive basis, the 40-room property will occupy less than 2 percent of a 7,000-acre protected area. The total cost of the renovation has been announced as AUD 50 million (USD 34 million).
With this project, Emirates has signed its second major operator partnership in the Wolgan Valley region over the past 20 years.
Closed Due to Road Issues
The property first opened in 2009 as the Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort, and later began operating as Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley through a partnership with One&Only Resorts. However, severe landslides affecting the main access road led to transportation problems, resulting in the property’s indefinite closure in June 2023.
During this period, approximately 100 employees were laid off and the property remained inactive; Emirates retained a limited number of local staff for maintenance and conservation purposes.
$200 Million Long-Term Investment
Emirates has invested a total of AUD 200 million in the property since acquiring it in 2006. As part of these investments:
- More than 1 million native trees were planted,
- Numerous structures, including the historic farmhouse dating back to 1832, were restored,
- The area was transformed into one of Australia’s leading conservation-focused luxury destinations.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, said: “We are proud of our long-term investment in one of Australia’s first conservation-based luxury resorts. Today, we are excited to be opening the world’s first Ritz-Carlton Lodge with Marriott International.”
A New Concept for Ritz-Carlton
For Marriott International, this partnership also represents an entirely new concept launched under the name Ritz-Carlton Lodges. This concept encompasses boutique properties that are environmentally sensitive, purpose-built, and offer a high level of luxury and comfort.
Rajeev Menon, President of Marriott International Asia Pacific (excluding China), stated: “This project will be a strong attraction for Marriott Bonvoy’s 260 million members worldwide.”
Private Pool Villas and Nature Experiences
The renewed property will feature:
- 40 independent accommodation units, each with a private pool,
- An open-air sleeping experience,
- A Ritz-Carlton Spa, fitness centre, equestrian facilities, tennis courts,
- A signature restaurant, lounge bar, and wine room,
- A naturalist centre managed by experts.
Access to the property will be provided via four-wheel-drive vehicles along the Donkey Steps route or by helicopter.
150 New Jobs for the Local Economy
According to Emirates, the revival of the project is expected to create approximately 150 jobs, as well as generate new opportunities for local food and product suppliers.
Aligned with the growing demand for nature-themed luxury tourism, this investment is expected to make a significant contribution to the economic and tourism revitalisation of the Wolgan Valley.
