Mandarin Oriental to Expand Its Presence in Egypt With Two Iconic Hotels and a Luxury Nile Cruise Experience

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

February 17, 2026

Building on the forthcoming reopening of Mandarin Oriental Shepheard, Cairo in 2027, Mandarin Oriental is pleased to announce a significant expansion of its presence in Egypt through a distinctive collection of experiences.

Bringing together two storied hotels and the Group’s first luxury river cruise offering, this carefully crafted portfolio creates a seamless journey that unites land and river under the Mandarin Oriental brand, celebrating Egypt’s culture and historical richness.

The Group will assume management of two iconic properties in Luxor and Aswan, both of which will undergo significant renovation before reopening in 2027. Complementing these landmark hotels, Mandarin Oriental will introduce its first luxury river cruise, owned and developed by K.G. Company for Real Estate and Tourism Investment, part of Garranah Group, and operated in partnership with Mandarin Oriental. Together, the hotels and cruise form a fully integrated, destination-led journey between Cairo, Luxor and Aswan. The cruise will offer an immersive voyage between the two cities and stands as a defining expression of Mandarin Oriental’s commitment to exceptional, culturally rooted experiences.

In Aswan, Mandarin Oriental will assume management of the historic Old Cataract hotel from May 2026. The hotel will continue to welcome guests within its heritage building while a comprehensive renovation of the Nile Wing is undertaken. The entire property is scheduled to be completed in July 2027, joining the Mandarin Oriental portfolio as Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract, Aswan. Perched above the river and facing the Temple of Khnum, the hotel will feature elegant rooms and suites, six dining venues, The Spa at Mandarin Oriental and spaces designed to foster reflection and a deep connection with the surrounding landscape.

In Luxor, the iconic Winter Palace will close in early 2026 to begin a complete restoration, reopening in July 2027 as Mandarin Oriental Winter Palace, Luxor. Overlooking the Nile and located near the Temple of Luxor, the hotel will offer a refined collection of rooms and suites, six dining venues and The Spa at Mandarin Oriental set within tranquil gardens, alongside elegant event spaces. Respecting its legacy while embracing a contemporary spirit, the hotel will be reintroduced as a destination for cultural discovery and leisure.

Mandarin Oriental, Nile Cruise will introduce the Group’s signature hospitality to the storied waters of the Nile. Offering three, four, and seven-night itineraries between Luxor and Aswan, the vessel is currently in design development and will blend a romantic feel with a contemporary finish. The cruise will feature generously sized suites, three distinctive dining venues and a dedicated wellness space, complemented by curated cultural programming that will form a pillar of the experience. Expert-led talks, immersive excursions and a guided journey from end to end will bring depth and continuity to each voyage.

 

Andrea Thompson

ByAndrea Thompson

Andrea can be found either in the Travelling For Business office or around the globe enjoying a city break, visiting new locations or sampling some of the best restaurants all work related of course!