We’ve curated another roundup of elegant hotel openings, renovations and expansions across global destinations including Ireland, Italy and the United Arab Emirates. These properties elevate luxury while embracing the distinct character and culture of their surroundings.
Dublin’s Iconic Shelbourne Hotel to Undergo Guestroom Makeover
Dublin’s iconic The Shelbourne, a Marriott Autograph Collection property, is set to begin a year-long renovation of its guestrooms starting in late October 2025. The million-dollar refurbishment project will update 226 rooms across the Queen, Deluxe and Heritage Premium categories.
Acclaimed interior designer Bryan O’Sullivan will lead the renovation. Guests can expect the updated rooms to blend traditional luxury with modern accents—a nod to both the property’s 1824 origins and contemporary feel. Much of the hotel’s furniture and lighting will be newly designed by O’Sullivan’s studio, while select existing pieces will be retained to maintain a sense of historical continuity in one of Dublin’s most historically significant hotels, often associated with major political and cultural moments in Irish history.
The new interiors will also spotlight Irish culture and artistry: custom carpets are being created to reflect the work of renowned artist Louis le Brocquy, and a potential partnership with Dublin’s Kerlin Gallery is in the works to curate a collection of contemporary Irish art for the guestrooms.
For more information, visit theshelbourne.com.
Hyatt Regency Rome Central Set to Open in the Fall
Hyatt is expanding its Italian presence with the upcoming debut of Hyatt Regency Rome Central, scheduled to open in the fall. Located in the historic Esquilino district, the 238-room hotel—including 20 suites—offers travelers easy access to Rome’s most iconic sites, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Spanish Steps, Via Veneto and Villa Borghese Gardens.
The hotel features a rooftop with a pool and pool bar, a spa and a fitness center with curated wellness programming. Hyatt Regency Rome Central will also appeal to food-focused clients, offering three distinct dining experiences: casual poolside dining, a signature Asian-inspired restaurant, and a third venue that channels Italian-American culinary influences — all crafted to reflect Rome’s dynamic culinary scene with international flair.
With its proximity to Termini Station and walkable access to major attractions and cultural institutions, the property is positioned as a convenient yet stylish base for travelers eager to explore Rome’s past and present.
For more information, visit hyatt.com.
Mandarin Oriental to Open Second Dubai Hotel in October
Mandarin Oriental is expanding its footprint in the Middle East with the highly anticipated launch of Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai, slated to open in October. The luxury property will be the brand’s second hotel in Dubai and will be located within the Wasl Tower.
The new hotel will offer 259 guestrooms and suites alongside 224 exclusive branded residences. Set against views of the Arabian Gulf and the city skyline, the hotel is designed to appeal to travelers seeking elevated experiences and personalized service.
Notable features include a rooftop helipad, two floors dedicated to wellness at The Spa at Mandarin Oriental Downtown, Dubai, and ten diverse dining and nightlife venues. Culinary offerings will span a global range of cuisines—from French and Asian to Greek and Italian.
The spa will combine ancient healing traditions with advanced wellness technologies, providing a holistic retreat for guests across its multi-level space.
For more information, visit mandarinoriental.com.
Octant Douro in Portugal Expands with New House Collection
Octant Douro, located on the hillside terraces of Castelo de Paiva in Portugal, has unveiled its new House Collection, expanding the property to a total of 79 rooms and suites.
The House Collection adds 20 new residential-style accommodations. The collection features:
- Four split-level, two-bedroom houses, each with a living room, dining area, kitchen and three with private plunge pools.
- Sixteen one-bedroom residences, four with private plunge pools, all offering balconies, patios or private gardens with sweeping views of the Douro landscape.
Guests in the House Collection can take advantage of curated in-residence experiences, including yoga sessions, Tibetan bowl meditation, chef-led dinners, BBQs and wine and cheese tastings led by the hotel’s expert sommeliers.
Octant Douro has also enhanced its spa offerings, introducing new treatments that emphasize muscle relief and stress reduction. Additional upgrades include a newly designed lobby and check-in area, and a refreshed À TERRA restaurant, now featuring expanded indoor seating.
For more information, visit douro.octanthotels.com.
Vista Ostuni Debuts in Puglia’s White City
Vista Ostuni, in southern Italy, recently opened its doors in July. Located in Puglia’s renowned “White City,” the property is housed in a restored 14th-century stone palazzo, offering 28 guestrooms and suites, and is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.
The building—once a convent and later a tobacco-processing factory—has been reimagined by architect Roberto Murgia of RMA Studio. The restoration preserves more than 64,500 square feet of historic interiors.
Vista Ostuni offers a year-round wellness program, including a full-service spa, an indoor pool and a fitness center. Outdoor spaces include a rooftop infinity pool with countryside views and a garden pool surrounded by Mediterranean olive groves.
The culinary program is led by Michelin-starred chef Andrea Berton, who brings a fine dining flair to Berton al Vista, the hotel’s signature restaurant, while the Chiostro Bar and Infinity rooftop bar offer cocktails and bites.
For more information, visit vistapalazzo.com.
