Mandarin Oriental is expanding its Egyptian footprint with the launch of two properties in Luxor and Aswan, as well as the group’s first luxury river cruise, set to form an integrated journey between Cairo, Luxor and Aswan for its guests.
In Aswan, the historic Old Cataract hotel will from May 2026 come under Mandarin Oriental's management. Guests may continue to stay at its heritage building while a comprehensive renovation of the Nile wing is undertaken. When full renovation works complete in July 2027, it will reopen as Mandarin Oriental Old Cataract, Aswan.
In Luxor, the Winter Palace will close in early 2026 to begin a complete restoration, reopening in July 2027 as Mandarin Oriental Winter Palace, Luxor.
Completing the destination trio is the group’s 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.
Currently in the design stage, the Nile Cruise will sail three, four, and seven-night itineraries between Luxor and Aswan, housing guests in generously sized suites, three dining venues and a dedicated wellness space, complemented by curated cultural programming that will form a pillar of the experience. The cruise will also host expert-led talks and immersive excursions.
“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,” said Laurent Kleitman, group chief executive of Mandarin Oriental.
She added that the journey is curated through private access, expert guidance and offers encounters with Egypt’s most significant heritage sites.