Meliá Hotels International Unveils Extensive Global Expansion for Luxury Portfolio
Meliá Hotels International, a leading Spanish hotel group, announces a substantial expansion of its luxury brands globally, with one in three of its upcoming openings falling under the luxury portfolio. This expansion spans diverse regions, bringing Spanish hospitality to captivating destinations across Europe, Africa, and Central America. The luxury brand additions include ME by Meliá properties in Lisbon, Malta, and Mexico, Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts expansion in Europe and Southeast Asia, and the introduction of Paradisus by Meliá’s unique Destination Inclusive concept in Europe.
In the summer of 2023, Meliá added Tanzania to its portfolio with the opening of Ngorongoro Lodge Meliá Collection, a design-focused lodge situated in one of the planet’s most biodiverse locations. The Paradisus by Meliá brand marked its European debut with new openings in Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. Emphasizing responsible tourism, the recently opened Paradisus Salinas Lanzarote and Paradisus Gran Canaria offer immersive experiences that respect the environment and local culture.
Gran Meliá Hotels & Resorts is a key player in Meliá’s luxury sector growth, expanding into Europe and Southeast Asia. The highly anticipated Palazzo Cordusio Gran Meliá, opening in Milan in December 2023, marks a significant milestone as the brand’s first Milanese property. Gran Meliá also strengthens its presence in Spain with Torre Melina, A Gran Meliá Hotel, located in the heart of Barcelona. The brand extends into Southeast Asia with Gran Meliá Nha Trang, its first opening in Vietnam, offering a blend of Mediterranean hospitality and Vietnamese charm.
ME by Meliá, known for its dynamic and stylish approach, will introduce new properties in Mexico, Malta, and Lisbon in 2024. ME Lisbon, situated in the historic Portuguese capital, will feature avant-garde design, high-quality services, and panoramic views from the Radio Rooftop Bar. ME Malta, designed by renowned architect Zaha Hadid, will become a cultural hub in St Julian’s. Additionally, ME Sayulita in Mexico will contribute to Meliá’s expansion in the country.
Meliá’s Paradisus brand introduces its unique Destination Inclusive concept in Europe, with openings in Lanzarote and Gran Canaria. The brand’s immersive approach ensures guests experience the local culture and natural beauty of each destination. The expansion also includes ZEL, a lifestyle brand created in collaboration with Rafael Nadal, with the debut in Mallorca in 2023 and plans for ZEL Sayulita in Mexico in 2025.
Sustainability remains at the core of Meliá’s values, with the group recognized for its commitment to responsible tourism. Recent initiatives include the opening of Villa Le Blanc Gran Meliá, a prototype of efficiency and environmental responsibility in Menorca. Meliá has also launched the Road to Net Zero Events, a sustainable event initiative developed in collaboration with Creast, aimed at achieving carbon neutrality within the event industry.
André Gerondeau, Chief Operating Officer of Meliá Hotels International, expresses excitement about the ambitious expansion, reinforcing the brand’s global presence and preeminent position within the luxury sector. Despite ongoing uncertainties, Meliá reports a strong third quarter in 2023, reflecting the positive momentum in the post-pandemic tourism landscape.