Marbella is on the brink of a major hospitality milestone with the announcement of Waldorf Astoria Marbella, the first Waldorf Astoria hotel to be built in Spain. This landmark project—backed by Hilton and Higuerón Developments—is scheduled to open in 2029, setting a new benchmark for luxury tourism and real estate on the Costa del Sol.

A Strategic Partnership With Global Reach

The creation of Waldorf Astoria Marbella comes from a formal agreement signed between Hilton (NYSE: HLT) and Higuerón Developments, solidifying a powerful alliance that brings one of the world’s most iconic luxury brands to southern Spain. The signing ceremony took place in New York on 5 November 2025, with senior executives from both organisations in attendance.

This partnership aligns with Hilton’s broader strategy to expand its ultra‑luxury portfolio globally, and positions Marbella alongside other elite Waldorf Astoria destinations around the world.

What Waldorf Astoria Marbella Will Offer

Set against Marbella’s stunning Mediterranean coastline, Waldorf Astoria Marbella will blend world‑class hospitality with refined Andalusian character. The resort’s programme includes:

120 guest rooms and suites offering panoramic sea views
120 branded residences, combining private ownership with hotel‑level service
Multiple dining venues, including the iconic Peacock Alley, a signature restaurant, bar and pool grill
Wellness facilities, including a 750 m² spa, indoor/outdoor pools, fitness centre and more
Event and meeting spaces, including a grand ballroom and executive boardrooms
Access to a championship golf course redesigned by Robert Trent Jones Jr.

This dual‑offer of hotel rooms and branded residences caters not only to short‑stay luxury guests but also to international buyers seeking a premium second‑home experience with concierge‑style living.

Architecture, Design & World‑Class Amenities

Waldorf Astoria Marbella is being conceived with the involvement of three Pritzker Prize‑winning architects, who are shaping the project’s conceptual design. Their influence is expected to deliver a sophisticated architectural statement that harmonises with Marbella’s Mediterranean setting.

The resort’s design vision emphasises wellness, social engagement, and culinary excellence, with spaces crafted to elevate both everyday relaxation and special‑occasion experiences.

A Catalyst for Marbella’s Luxury Real Estate and Tourism Economy

The announcement of Waldorf Astoria Marbella is more than a hospitality story—it’s an economic signal. The development:

Strengthens Marbella’s luxury tourism infrastructure
Boosts investor confidence in premium real estate
Elevates the city’s global appeal for high‑net‑worth visitors
Creates employment and ancillary business opportunities

In combination with other high‑end tourism projects underway, Marbella is rapidly evolving into one of Europe’s most desirable luxury destinations, rivalled only by major capitals traditionally associated with world‑class travel and lifestyle.

Timeline & What’s Next

With an opening planned for 2029, the Waldorf Astoria Marbella project is still in the early stages of development. Conceptual design is progressing, planning approvals are underway, and anticipation is building among global travellers and investors alike.

As further details on design, amenities, and branded residences are revealed, this resort is poised to reshape how Marbella is perceived internationally—not just as a luxury city break, but as a permanent lifestyle destination.

Research enquiries:
James Evans — Managing Partner
📞 +34 643 390 376 | ✉️ james@justrealestate.es

Sales enquiries:
Alina Nouaimeh — Partner
📞 +34 600 689 749 | ✉️ alina@justrealestate.es