Opening in 2027 Mandarin Oriental significantly expands its Egypt presence following the planned reopening of the landmark Shepheard Cairo.
The new portfolio introduces an integrated luxury journey combining historic hotels and the brand’s first Nile River cruise. Together, these experiences connect Cairo, Luxor and Aswan through land and river, celebrating Egypt’s cultural depth and heritage. The expansion reflects Mandarin Oriental’s long-term commitment to destination-led luxury rooted in place, craftsmanship and storytelling.
Hotels in Luxor and Aswan
Mandarin Oriental will assume management of two iconic Upper Egypt hotels both undergoing major renovations before reopening in 2027.
In Aswan, the group takes over the historic Old Cataract hotel from May 2026 during phased redevelopment works. The Heritage building will remain operational while the Nile Wing renovation progresses toward full completion in July 2027. Once complete, the property will reopen as Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract Aswan overlooking the Nile and Temple of Khnum. The hotel will feature refined rooms and suites, six dining venues, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental and reflective social spaces.
In Luxor, the Winter Palace will close in early 2026 to undergo a comprehensive restoration program. The hotel will reopen in July 2027 as Mandarin Oriental Winter Palace Luxor overlooking the Nile near Luxor Temple. It will offer elegant rooms, six dining venues, a spa tranquil gardens and sophisticated event facilities. Both hotels are developed with Talaat Moustafa Group combining local expertise with Mandarin Oriental service standards and vision.
First Mandarin Oriental Nile Cruise
Complementing the hotels, Mandarin Oriental will launch its first luxury Nile River cruise experience. The cruise is owned and developed by K G Company, part of Garranah Group and operated with Mandarin Oriental. It will offer 34- and 7-night itineraries between Luxor and Aswan with immersive cultural programming. Design development blends romantic character with contemporary finishes, including suites, dining venues and dedicated wellness spaces.
Laurent Kleitman, group chief executive of Mandarin Oriental, voiced his enthusiasm for the far-reaching projects. He said, “Egypt is one of the fastest growing global destinations and this presents a rare opportunity to create a journey that is both culturally rich and uniquely Mandarin Oriental. By uniting our first river cruise with truly iconic historic hotels in Luxor and Aswan, we are introducing a seamless, end-to-end experience that unfolds across land and water.”
The portfolio will establish a new benchmark for luxury travel in Egypt when fully launched in 2027.
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