Emirates and Marriott International have signed an agreement to open Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge — a 40-key all-inclusive luxury lodge set to be situated on a 7,000-acre conservancy in Australia’s Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage area.
The World’s First Ritz-Carlton Lodge
Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge is expected to mark the first Ritz-Carlton Lodge in the world and a major milestone for New South Wales’s (NSW) regional tourism. An expression of the renowned luxury brand, Ritz-Carlton Lodges are conceived as purpose-built sanctuaries in nature, thoughtfully designed to reflect their surrounds while prioritising minimal environmental impact and delivering a heightened sense of luxury, comfort and craftsmanship synonymous with The Ritz-Carlton.
Anticipated to open mid-2026, the project offers a new benchmark for luxury travel and potential to reinvigorate the region’s tourism offering.
Emirates’ Long-Term Investment and Conservation Commitment
Since 2006, Emirates has invested AU$150 million in the Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort, restoring heritage assets including the 1832 homestead and undertaking major conservation efforts, with over one million native trees planted across the site.
A further AU$50 million investment is now being made to transform the property, in partnership with Marriott, into a world-class Ritz-Carlton Lodge defined by refined design, legendary service and a strong connection to place.
Community Engagement and Local Economic Impact
From the resort’s founding, Emirates has worked closely with the local Wolgan Valley community, and it remains committed to continued engagement. The opening of Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge offers the potential to re-create close to 150 jobs in the community, including increased opportunities for local suppliers ranging from fresh Australian produce to sundry items, contributing to the local economy.
Access and Arrival Experience
Guests will access the resort by a four-wheel drive service via the Donkey Steps, which will become part of the rural off-road experience of the resort, or via helicopter.
Leadership Perspectives
Tim Clark, President, Emirates Airline, said: “In our 30 years of operations in Australia, Emirates has consistently sought to deliver value to our customers, and to Australia. Our commitment extends well beyond the provision of air transport services. It is reflected in the strong, enduring relationships we have built with our industry partners, and in our active engagement with the broader Australian community through Emirates Wolgan Valley, and our extensive sponsorships in sports and the arts. We are proud of our long-term investment into the Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort which launched one of Australia’s first conservation-based luxury resorts. Our unwavering commitment to the resort leads us to today’s announcement of an exciting agreement with Marriott International to open the world’s first Ritz-Carlton Lodge. For us, Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge 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, helping to rejuvenate the Wolgan Valley locality. We are deeply grateful for the support from the Federal government, and for our partnerships with the State government, Lithgow City Council, and the Wolgan Valley community who have helped Emirates make this project possible.”
Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International, said: “We’re honoured to collaborate with Emirates on this milestone development, which sees the world’s largest hotelier and the world’s largest international airline come together to reinvigorate the luxury tourism offering in New South Wales. Marking the brand’s lodge debut globally, Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge will be a major drawcard for our network of 260 million loyal Marriott Bonvoy members around the world, particularly with the upcoming plans in store for immersive experiences that connect them deeply to the local area — something our luxury travellers are increasingly prioritising.”
An Immersive Sanctuary in the Greater Blue Mountains
An immersive sanctuary that harmonises wilderness and the ease of comfort, Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge is designed to deliver the legendary service and refined luxury for which The Ritz-Carlton and Emirates are known, while creating a profound connection to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains region.
Inspired by the warmth and character of the traditional Australian homestead, the lodge is expected to offer unique, region-specific signature experiences led by expert guides.
Immersive Luxury Rooted in Nature
Set within a 7,000-acre conservation reserve and occupying less than two percent of the landscape, Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge offers rare seclusion amid pristine wilderness. Guests experience expansive landscapes, clear night skies, native flora and wildlife, creating a setting that encourages a slower, more meaningful connection with the destination.
The lodge will feature 40 elegantly designed accommodations with private pools, along with signature wilderness experiences that blend refined comfort with nature. A sophisticated main homestead, world-class wellness facilities including The Ritz-Carlton Spa, and a dedicated naturalist-led experience hub reinforce the lodge’s commitment to conservation-led luxury in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains.
