Forbes Travel Guide 2026: GCC Luxury Hotels Achieve Record Five-Star Milestone as Global Brands Expand Premium Offerings

The Forbes Travel Guide 2026 Star Awards have delivered a landmark year for luxury hospitality in the Gulf region, with a record number of properties achieving the coveted Five-Star distinction. The latest rankings not only highlight the Gulf Cooperation Council’s (GCC) growing prominence in global tourism but also underscore the expanding influence of major international hotel groups in the ultra-luxury segment.

28 GCC Hotels Earn Five-Star Status in 2026

In 2026, 28 hotels across the GCC secured Five-Star ratings, marking an increase compared to the previous year. The UAE emerged as the regional leader, accounting for 19 of these top recognitions.

Dubai alone recorded 14 Five-Star hotels, reinforcing its reputation as one of the world’s most competitive luxury destinations. Abu Dhabi followed with five properties achieving the highest rating.

Newly recognized Five-Star hotels in the region include:

• Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental

• Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Dubai

• Nujuma, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve

• Rosewood Doha

These additions reflect sustained investment in premium infrastructure and service excellence across the Gulf.

UAE Strengthens Its Position as a Global Luxury Hub

Dubai’s dominance in the 2026 rankings highlights its maturity as a luxury hospitality market. The emirate continues to attract global travelers seeking ultra-premium resorts, experiential stays, and world-class dining.

A standout achievement this year was recorded by Atlantis The Royal, which became the first hotel in the Middle East and Africa to secure a prestigious “triple five” recognition under the Forbes Travel Guide system. Alongside Atlantis, The Palm, the Atlantis portfolio significantly increased its total star count compared to 2025.

Beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah continued to expand their Four-Star presence, signaling broader geographic diversification of luxury tourism within the UAE.

Saudi Arabia and Qatar Expand Their Luxury Credentials

Saudi Arabia maintained Five-Star status for established icons such as Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Centre and The Ritz-Carlton, Riyadh, while also celebrating the debut Five-Star recognition of Nujuma at the Red Sea destination — a significant milestone for the Kingdom’s giga-project tourism strategy.

In Qatar, Doha strengthened its position as a refined luxury capital with multiple Five-Star recognitions across internationally branded properties. Kuwait also retained top-tier honors for its leading luxury hotels.

Marriott International’s Luxury Group Achieves Global Momentum

Globally, Marriott International celebrated strong results through its Luxury Group portfolio, which spans brands including The Ritz-Carlton, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, Bvlgari Hotels & Resorts, JW Marriott, EDITION Hotels, W Hotels, and The Luxury Collection.

The group secured 397 global recognitions across hotels, restaurants, spas, and yachts. Among the most notable milestones was the Five-Star recognition awarded to Ilma, part of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, making it the first cruise ship to receive the highest Forbes distinction.

Several properties across Asia, North America, and Europe also earned first-time Five-Star honors, reflecting the portfolio’s global growth strategy.

The Rise of Experiential and Passion-Based Luxury Travel

The 2026 results reveal a broader industry shift toward experiential luxury — where wellness, gastronomy, sustainability, and immersive storytelling play central roles in defining premium hospitality.

Five-Star recognitions were also extended to high-end spas and culinary establishments, emphasizing that modern luxury travelers increasingly seek curated, passion-driven experiences beyond traditional accommodation.

What the 2026 Awards Signal for the Hospitality Industry

The latest Forbes Travel Guide rankings confirm two major trends:

1. The GCC is solidifying its position as a global luxury tourism powerhouse.

2. International hotel groups are diversifying into experiential and maritime luxury segments.

As Middle Eastern destinations continue to invest heavily in high-end infrastructure and global brands expand their premium portfolios, the 2026 awards highlight a transformative period for luxury hospitality worldwide.