In an elite review of the most distinguished luxury hotel brands worldwide, Luxury Travel Intelligence (LTI) has again named Mandarin Oriental as the world’s leading luxury hotel brand for 2024. This is Mandarin Oriental’s second consecutive win. LTI’s data-rich analysis reveals that the brand continues to dominate the global luxury hospitality scene through exceptional commitment to quality, property investment, and a consistent ability to surpass guest expectations. With prestigious new entries like Bulgari and the Dorchester Collection debuting high in the rankings, LTI’s 2024 report is the definitive guide for affluent travellers seeking the finest hotel experiences.
A Rigorous Evaluation Process That Sets LTI Apart
Unlike other rankings, LTI’s annual “World’s Best Luxury Hotel Brands” report results from a rigorous evaluation model meticulously designed to assess luxury hotel brands on numerous high-impact criteria. For the past 12 months, LTI’s team of experts applied a unique algorithm encompassing 130 touchpoints, with each factor holding a weighted score and contributing to a maximum cumulative total of 4663. By evaluating performance on brand attributes such as passion, ethos, management quality, staff excellence, investment in new properties, and renovations, LTI can offer a dynamic, real-world perspective of each brand’s reputation and standing in the luxury sector.
Mandarin Oriental Singapore.
Michael Crompton, Founder of LTI, explains the intricate process: “Our evaluation goes beyond individual properties. We focus on the overarching ability of each brand to maintain its promise and ethos while continuously investing in and innovating their hospitality experiences.”
Mandarin Oriental: The Leader in Luxury
For 2024, Mandarin Oriental led the list with an impressive 81.6% score, making it clear that this brand remains a beacon in the ultra-luxury hotel segment. Known for its timeless elegance and exceptional attention to detail, Mandarin Oriental has consistently set the bar high, meeting the demands of discerning travellers who value both sophistication and personalized experiences. The brand’s latest investments in new property openings have only enhanced its standing, solidifying it as a favourite among luxury travellers.
A Strong Debut for Bulgari and Dorchester Collection
Bulgari London entrance.
In a surprising and noteworthy turn, Bulgari entered the LTI rankings for the first time, placing an impressive second with an 81.3% score. With a brand presence defined by Italian elegance and exclusivity, Bulgari’s rise in the rankings is a testament to its carefully curated guest experience, which combines opulence with culturally resonant properties. Another exciting debut in the top 15 is the Dorchester Collection, which placed 11th, reflecting its commitment to providing ultra-luxury experiences across several properties.
LTI’s decision to reduce the minimum qualifying property count from ten to eight allowed for these prestigious new entries, widening the scope of brands eligible for consideration. “The inclusion of Bulgari is particularly significant,” Crompton added, “as they represent a focused, well-managed organization where each property offers a truly ultra-luxury experience. The reduction in property requirements has allowed us to recognize emerging brands that are making significant strides in the luxury space.”
The 2024 Top 15 Luxury Hotel Brands
LTI’s rankings for 2024 feature a blend of established names and new entries, reflecting the dynamic shifts within the global luxury hotel industry:
- Mandarin Oriental – 81.6% (1st in 2023)
- Bulgari – 81.3% (New Entry)
- Oetker Collection – 80.7% (2nd in 2023)
- Six Senses – 80.2% (4th in 2023)
- Aman – 78.1% (5th in 2023)
- One&Only – 77.4% (8th in 2023)
- Rocco Forte – 76.8% (9th in 2023)
- Rosewood – 75.1% (10th in 2023)
- Belmond – 73.9% (6th in 2023)
- Auberge – 72.1% (3rd in 2023)
- Dorchester Collection – 71.8% (New Entry)
- Four Seasons – 71.5% (7th in 2023)
- Peninsula – 70.1% (11th in 2023)
- COMO – 69.7% (New Entry)
- Raffles – 69.4% (12th in 2023)
Shifts Reflecting Industry Trends and Investments
This year’s rankings underscore significant trends reshaping the luxury hospitality sector. High-end brands increasingly invest in property upgrades, sustainable practices, and culturally immersive experiences, catering to the sophisticated tastes of a growing high-net-worth traveller demographic. Strategic changes across several top brands, such as the Dorchester Collection and Bulgari, indicate the importance of adaptive luxury, where continuous investment and market-savvy management are essential to staying competitive.
Brands like Mandarin Oriental and Six Senses have also distinguished themselves by aligning with global trends in wellness and sustainability. As these factors gain prominence, they will likely become pivotal in LTI’s evaluations in future years.
The Competitive Horizon for 2025 and Beyond
With new management strategies and rising investments across the luxury hotel industry, competition is at an all-time high. Crompton anticipates continued excitement and dynamic shifts in the rankings for the coming year: “With senior management changes across the brands and the fierce competition for the growing high-net-worth traveler market, the landscape is ripe for surprises in 2025. In the meantime, congratulations to all 15 brands in this year’s ranking. Their commitment to excellence has set an impressive benchmark for the industry.”
As the luxury travel sector continues to expand, brands must innovate and maintain high standards to stay relevant and capture the loyalty of discerning travellers. LTI’s “World’s Best Luxury Hotel Brands” report is a trusted guide, giving affluent travellers a clear view of the best in luxury hospitality and an exclusive window into an industry that defines indulgence, sophistication, and elite experiences.
Written by: Yves Thomas
