16 New Hotels Awarded Five-Star Status In 2026 Forbes Awards List. Check Which Ones

The global luxury travel landscape has entered a remarkable new phase as Forbes Travel Guide announced its 2026 Star Awards. This year's list spans more than 100 countries and features more first-time Five-Star hotels than ever before. As travellers increasingly seek personalised experiences, meaningful cultural connections and exceptional service, several new properties across the world have risen to the very top of global hospitality standards. Below is the complete list of 16 hotels that received a Five-Star rating for the first time in the 2026 Forbes Awards.

New Five-Star Hotels Across The World (First-Time Winners)

United States

The U.S. had a particularly strong showing this year, with five new hotels achieving Five-Star status for the first time. These properties highlight America's evolving luxury scene, from wellness retreats to grand city hotels.

• The Chateau at Nemacolin, Pennsylvania - Known for its expansive estate, refined interiors and highly personalised service, this resort joins the elite list for its commitment to delivering an immersive luxury escape. 
• Mii amo, Sedona, Arizona - A celebrated wellness retreat set in Sedona's red rock landscapes, Mii amo earned the region's first Five-Star rating thanks to its tranquil setting and healing-centred experiences. 
• The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes, Florida - Recognised as Orlando's first Five-Star hotel, it impressed with its sophisticated design, world-class dining and elevated family-friendly luxury.
• The St. Regis Atlanta, Georgia - This elegant property stands out for its polished service, refined atmosphere and strong dining credentials, contributing to Atlanta's first "double Five-Star" achievement.
• Yacht Club at The Boca Raton, Florida - Offering waterfront serenity and polished hospitality, this stylish retreat joins the prestigious list with its blend of modern luxury and coastal charm.

Caribbean

• Wymara Villas, Turks and Caicos - This serene, design-led property delivers high-end island living with panoramic views and private pool villas, earning its first Five-Star recognition for its elevated approach to tropical luxury.

Also Read: This Hotel Is Officially The World's Largest Building "Shaped Like A Chicken"

Japan

Japan continues to strengthen its reputation for hospitality excellence, adding three new Five-Star hotels.

• The Ritz-Carlton, Nikko - The hotel's peaceful lakeside location, traditional Japanese design and meticulous attention to detail helped it secure its first Five-Star honour. 
• Bvlgari Hotel Tokyo - With its contemporary luxury aesthetic and standout service, this glamorous property adds a new level of sophistication to Tokyo's hotel scene.
• Roku Kyoto, LXR Hotels & Resorts - Nestled in the foothills of Kyoto, this serene retreat offers a refined blend of natural beauty and modern comfort, making its debut in the Five-Star category.

Hong Kong

• Regent Hong Kong - After a much-anticipated revival, the Regent impressed with its elegant redesign, elevated dining and sweeping harbour views, earning a place among the world's newest Five-Star hotels.

Macau

• Capella at Galaxy Macau - Known for its intimate, high-luxury experience within one of Asia's most dynamic destinations, this property strengthens Macau's position as the global leader in Five-Star hotels. 

Middle East

• Nujuma, A Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Saudi Arabia - The first Five-Star property in Saudi Arabia's Red Sea development, Nujuma combines natural beauty, exclusive villa stays and immersive cultural experiences. 

Europe

Europe's new winners reflect a diverse blend of modern luxury, heritage and artistic design.

• The Maybourne Riviera, France - With stunning architecture perched above the Mediterranean, this contemporary European retreat delivers standout views and refined hospitality. 
• Mandarin Oriental Savoy Zurich, Switzerland - A beautifully restored icon, the hotel blends Swiss elegance with world-class service to secure its first Five-Star rating.
• Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, Spain - Celebrated for its sophisticated design, rooftop views and exceptional dining, this urban luxury hub joins the Five-Star ranks for the first time.

Montenegro

• One&Only Portonovi - Positioned on the scenic Adriatic coast, this upscale resort offers a mix of natural beauty, wellness experiences and Mediterranean elegance, earning its inaugural Five-Star award.

Also Read: 

Why These Wins Matter

The record number of new Five-Star hotels reflects a significant shift in the global luxury travel landscape. Travellers today are seeking thoughtfully curated stays that go beyond traditional opulence, prioritising authenticity, culture and a deep sense of connection. With 343 Five-Star hotels featured in this year's list, the 2026 awards capture a moment where luxury is evolving into something more immersive and meaningfu