Mandarin Oriental to add two hotels, luxury Nile cruise in Egypt
Mandarin Oriental will bolster its presence in Egypt with a further two historic hotels to join its portfolio as well as its first ever luxury Nile cruise – blending land and river into a cohesive experience.
Following the planned reopening of Mandarin Oriental Shepheard, Cairo in 2027, the group has announced it will manage two of Upper Egypt’s most iconic properties in Luxor and Aswan. Together, the hotels and cruise aim to create a seamless journey linking Cairo, Luxor and Aswan.
“Egypt is one of the fastest growing global destinations and presents a rare opportunity to create a journey that is both culturally rich and uniquely Mandarin Oriental,” Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental said.
“By uniting our first river cruise, with truly iconic historic hotels in Luxor and Aswan, alongside the upcoming Mandarin Oriental Shepheard, Cairo, we are introducing a seamless, end-to-end experience that unfolds across land and water.”
In Aswan, Mandarin Oriental will assume management of the historic Old Cataract hotel beginning in May 2026. While the heritage building continues to operate, the Nile Wing will undergo extensive renovation, with the full property set to reopen in July 2027 as Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract, Aswan. Overlooking the Nile and facing the Temple of Khnum, the reimagined hotel will feature refined rooms and suites, six dining venues, a signature spa and contemplative spaces designed to connect guests with the surrounding landscape.
Meanwhile, Luxor’s famed Winter Palace will close in early 2026 for a comprehensive restoration. Scheduled to reopen in July 2027 as Mandarin Oriental Winter Palace, Luxor, the hotel will offer updated rooms and suites, six restaurants, a spa and event spaces set within landscaped gardens near the Temple of Luxor. The restoration aims to preserve the property’s legacy while positioning it for a new era of cultural tourism.
Mandarin Oriental, Nile Cruise will offer three-, four- and seven-night itineraries between Luxor and Aswan. The vessel, currently in development, will include spacious suites, three dining venues and a dedicated wellness area, alongside expert-led talks and immersive excursions.
The two hotels are being developed in partnership with Talaat Moustafa Group (TMG) Holding, while the river cruise is owned and developed by Garranah Group.
“For generations, our family has been deeply connected to the Nile and its stories,” said Karim Garranah, Managing Director of K.G. Company for Real Estate and Tourism Investment.
“Partnering with Mandarin Oriental allows us to share Egypt’s heritage through a new lens, one defined by exceptional care, cultural integrity and a guided journey that honours the river, its history and its people.”