Emirates and Marriott International to Bring First-Ever Ritz-Carlton Lodge Globally to Australia’s Wolgan Valley

On 28 January 2026, Emirates and Marriott International unveiled plans to open the world’s first Ritz-Carlton Lodge in Wolgan Valley, Australia, marking a milestone in luxury and conservation-based tourism.

Project Highlights
- Property Name: Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge
- Opening Timeline: Mid-2026
- Scale: 40 all-inclusive luxury lodges on a 7,000-acre conservancy in the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area.
- Design Philosophy: Purpose-built sanctuary blending luxury with minimal environmental impact, inspired by traditional Australian homesteads.

Conservation & Community Impact
- Emirates has invested AU$150 million since 2006 in Wolgan Valley, including restoration of historic landmarks and planting over 1 million native trees.
- An additional AU$50 million is being invested to transform the property into a Ritz-Carlton Lodge.
- Expected to create ~150 jobs and boost local suppliers (fresh produce, services, crafts).
- Lodge footprint will occupy less than 2% of the protected wilderness, ensuring ecological balance.

Guest Experience
- Private Pools & Bespoke Amenities in each lodge.
- Signature Sleep-Out Experience: guided wilderness overnight adventure under pristine night skies.
- Main Homestead Features: arrival lounge, signature restaurant, lounge bar, wine room.
- Recreational Facilities: outdoor pool, tennis courts, equestrian stables, fitness centre, and The Ritz-Carlton Spa.
- Naturalist Hub: resident experts curating immersive conservation-led experiences.

Leadership Voices
- Sir Tim Clark, President, Emirates Airline:
> “This will not only be an extraordinary resort appealing to discerning travellers seeking to be close to nature, but also a powerful engine for local economic growth.”

- Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific (excl. China), Marriott International:
> “Marking the brand’s lodge debut globally, Emirates Wolgan Valley will be a major drawcard for our 260 million Marriott Bonvoy members.”

Tourism Context
- Regional NSW welcomed 15.5 million domestic visitors in Q3 2025, generating AU$5.9 billion in spend.
- International arrivals added 727,300 visitors and AU$1.2 billion in spend.
- The lodge complements existing Ritz-Carlton properties in Perth (2019) and Melbourne (2023).

This project represents a fusion of luxury hospitality, conservation, and community development, setting a new benchmark for nature-based premium travel.