L-R: Paul Toole MP, NSW Member for Bathurst; HE Dr Fahad Altaffag, Ambassador of the UAE to Australia; Barry Brown, Divisional Vice President Australasia, Emirates; Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International; Cassandra Coleman, Mayor of Lithgow, Lithgow City Council; Robin Mack, Managing Director, Tourism Australia and Andrew Chalk, President, Wolgan Valley Association
Emirates and Marriott International announce the launch of Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge, set to debut in mid-2026, marking the global debut of The Ritz-Carlton Lodge in Australia’s Greater Blue Mountains.
Sydney, Australia – 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.
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’ (NSW) regional tourism. This lodge will be a true expression of the renowned luxury brand, with Ritz-Carlton Lodges designed as purpose-built sanctuaries that reflect their surroundings while minimising environmental impact. The Ritz-Carlton is known for its luxury, comfort, and craftsmanship, and this project aims to set a new benchmark in luxury travel while rejuvenating the region’s tourism offering. The lodge is anticipated to open in mid-2026.
Since 2006, Emirates has invested AU$150 million in the Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort, developing the property with a deep respect for its environmental and cultural heritage. This includes restoring historically significant landmarks, such as the original homestead dating back to 1832, alongside extensive conservation programs to restore indigenous flora and fauna. Emirates is investing an additional AU$50 million in renovations in collaboration with Marriott, transforming the property into a world-class Ritz-Carlton Lodge that blends luxury with a deep connection to the location.
Emirates has maintained the site with a small team of locally employed staff since the closure of Wolgan Valley Road in 2023, and the property was temporarily non-operational. The opening of the lodge is expected to recreate nearly 150 local jobs and increase opportunities for local suppliers, helping to boost the region’s economy.
Guests will be able to access the resort via a four-wheel-drive service via the Donkey Steps, which is part of the off-road experience, or by helicopter.
Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, said, “In our 30 years of operations in Australia, Emirates has consistently sought to deliver value to our customers and to Australia. This commitment goes beyond air transport, as shown through Emirates Wolgan Valley and our partnerships with local communities.”
Rajeev Menon, President, Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International, remarked, “We are honoured to collaborate with Emirates on this project, marking the global debut of Ritz-Carlton Lodges. This lodge will appeal to our 260 million Marriott Bonvoy members, offering unique immersive experiences and a deeper connection to the local area, which is increasingly sought by luxury travelers.”
Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge, is designed as an immersive sanctuary blending wilderness with comfort. The lodge will offer guests an unparalleled experience in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains, featuring exclusive access to pristine landscapes, rare native flora, and abundant wildlife. The area is home to kangaroos, wombats, and rock wallabies, providing a setting that invites guests to explore and connect with nature.
The lodge’s 40 elegantly appointed lodges will each include a pool and bespoke amenities. The resort will also offer a signature sleep-out experience, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the wilderness while enjoying a luxurious outdoor dinner and campfire experience. Design plans include a sophisticated main homestead with a welcoming lounge, a signature restaurant, a lounge bar, and a wine room featuring local and international wines.
Recreational spaces will be reimagined to promote wellbeing and honor the natural environment, with facilities including an outdoor pool, tennis courts, equestrian stables, fitness center, and The Ritz-Carlton Spa. A dedicated naturalist hub will offer conservation-led experiences, helping guests connect more deeply with the Greater Blue Mountains.
Emirates Wolgan Valley, a Ritz-Carlton Lodge, will complement The Ritz-Carlton brand’s existing presence in Australia, including The Ritz-Carlton, Perth (opened 2019) and The Ritz-Carlton, Melbourne (opened 2023).