The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has revealed plans to expand its presence in Egypt with the renovation and operation of two historic hotel properties and the brand’s first-ever luxury river cruise. 

In 2022, Mandarin Oriental announced it would open its first Egyptian property, Mandarin Oriental Shepheard in Cairo. The hotel is undergoing a comprehensive renovation and is due to open in 2027.

Ownership and development

The river cruise, Old Cataract hotel in Aswan and the Winter Palace hotel in Luxor are owned and developed by KG Company for Real Estate and Tourism Investment – which is part of Egyptian hospitality company, Garranah Group.

The new portfolio of hotels and cruise form an integrated destination-led journey between Cairo, Luxor and Aswan.

The two hotels, which will cease to be operated under Accor’s Sofitel brand, are being reimagined in partnership with Egyptian real estate development conglomerate Talaat Moustafa Group (TMG Holding).

Laurent Kleitman, group chief executive of Mandarin Oriental, said: "“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.

"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," added Kleitman. "From the moment guests arrive in Egypt to the moment they depart, the journey is carefully curated through private access, expert guidance and exceptional care, offering encounters with Egypt's most significant heritage sites." 

Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract, Aswan

The historic Old Cataract hotel will join the Mandarin Oriental management portfolio in May. The Nile Wing will undergo significant renovation before the property re-opens in July 2027 as Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract, Aswan. 

The hotel will continue to welcome guests to its older heritage building, which faces the Temple of Khnum. It will have six dining venues and a signature wellness facility called The Spa at Mandarin Oriental.

Mandarin Oriental Winter Palace, Luxor

The Winter Palace hotel in Luxor will close this year for a full restoration, again with an opening date of July 2027, as Mandarin Oriental Winter Palace, Luxor.

The hotel, which overlooks the Nile and is located near the Temple of Luxor, will have six dining venues and The Spa at Mandarin Oriental will be set within tranquil gardens.

Mandarin Oriental, Nile Cruise

The river cruise will offer three, four and seven-night itineraries between Luxor and Aswan. The vessel is currently in design development and is described as having “a romantic feel with a contemporary finish.” 

The cruise will have three dining venues, a dedicated wellness space and cultural programming will be curated for the journeys. This includes expert-led talks and immersive excursions.