Meliá Hotels International has presented in FITUR 2026 a positive balance sheet from its previous fiscal year and an ambitious roadmap for its 70th anniversary. The company, led by Gabriel EscarrerIt plans to open 28 hotels in 2026, prioritizing the luxury segment and expansion in the Mediterranean, America and Asia.
During the traditional press conference at the tourism fair, Gabriel Escarrer He highlighted the group's strength after seven decades of history, paying tribute to the founder's legacy, Gabriel Escarrer JuliáThe Spanish multinational faces the new year with optimism, anticipating a positive first quarter in España y Europa, as well as a recovery in the Caribe during its peak season. The company's strategy is based on brand diversification, strengthening its own channels, and an "asset-light" growth model through strategic alliances.
Global expansion and operating results
The 2025 fiscal year ended meeting financial expectations and exceeding inorganic growth forecasts. Meliá Hotels International signed a total of 51 new establishmentsadding approximately 9.200 rooms to its future portfolio. The company projects reaching a minimum of 411 operating hotels before the end of 2026.
The geographical distribution of these new brands reinforces what the hotel chain calls its "holiday focus," with a clear commitment to established destinations and emerging markets:
| Region / Area | % of New Firms | Featured Countries |
|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean and Europe | 60 % | España, Italia, Albania, Hungría, Andorra |
| America (Latin America and the USA) | 22 % | República Dominicana, Argentina, Miami, Perú |
| Asia | 6% | Vietnam, Indonesia, Tailandia |
Portfolio diversification includes entering exotic destinations with iconic brands. Notable examples are the Meliá Maldivas Whale Lagoon, Meliá Seychelles or Meliá BahreinLikewise, the brand ZEL It will continue its expansion with openings in Madrid, Cozumel, Fuerteventura y CretaWhile The Meliá Collection It will integrate unique assets, including hotels. MiM property of Leo Messi.
Strategic focus on the luxury segment
The business plan of Meliá It demonstrates a decisive shift towards premium positioning. 78% of hotels to be added in the future They belong to the luxury and upper segments. This strategy is reinforced by:
- Alliances with prestigious consortiums: The chain has almost 50 hotels affiliated with networks such as Leading Hotels of the World, AMEX Fine Hotels y Virtuoso.
- Investment in Repositioning: Since 2023, more than 90 hotels have been transformed with a joint investment with partners exceeding 975 millones de euros.
- Iconic reopenings in 2026: They highlight the return of renovated "flagships" such as the Paradisus Bali, Paradisus Cancún and the Gran Meliá Don Pepe.
Despite its global vocation, Escarrer He emphasized that this growth does not diminish the commitment to Españawhere they maintain their leadership in Andalucía y Islas Baleares, with upcoming openings in Estepona, Cádiz, Benalmádena y Granada.
Innovative management models and alliances
To sustain this long-term growth, Meliá Hotels International has consolidated a top-tier partner ecosystem. Since 2023, the company has doubled its stake in Joint Venturesencompassing 40 assets and 14.000 rooms with an approximate valuation of 3.000 millones de eurosAdditionally, the group is promoting the format of branded residenceswith 28 projects underway that maximize the value of their brands.
The company president concluded by reaffirming that the financial and corporate strength, along with the recognition in sustainability and talent —endorsed by S&P’s Global y Top Employer—, will allow Meliá to maintain its leadership in the segment leisure urban and holiday destinations for the next few decades.
Key points and frequently asked questions about Meliá's expansion
How many hotels will the company open in 2026?
Meliá Hotels International It plans to open 28 new establishments throughout 2026, including its first hotels in destinations such as Maldivas y Seychelles.
What is the main focus of Meliá's new strategy?
The strategy prioritizes the luxury and premium segment, which represents 78% of future hotels, supported by a strong investment in repositioning existing assets.
What role do alliances play in the group's growth?
Alliances are fundamental; the company has doubled its Joint Ventures Since 2023, managing assets valued at nearly 3.000 billion euros, enabling sustainable growth and greater revenue resilience.
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