Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has rejoined the Executive Committee of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), strengthening its role in global tourism leadership and industry collaboration. Announced on October 29, 2026, the move renews a long-standing relationship between the luxury hospitality group and WTTC, where Mandarin Oriental previously served as an Executive Committee member for more than 25 years.
Its return comes as the Group pursues an ambitious international expansion strategy, with plans to increase its portfolio to 100 hotels worldwide by 2033. The appointment reflects Mandarin Oriental’s continued commitment to the global Travel & Tourism sector and its intention to contribute to discussions shaping the industry’s future. Through its renewed involvement, the Group will work alongside WTTC members, industry leaders and other stakeholders on shared priorities, including responsible growth, luxury travel, sustainability and improving guest experiences.
Mandarin Oriental Renews Long-Standing WTTC Partnership
Mandarin Oriental’s return to the WTTC Executive Committee builds on more than 25 years of previous participation in the council’s leadership. The renewed membership provides an opportunity for the Group to contribute its experience and perspective to the global tourism industry’s development while strengthening cooperation with leading businesses and organisations across the sector.
WTTC President and CEO Gloria Guevara welcomed the Group’s return, highlighting its international reputation and valuable industry experience. She said Mandarin Oriental would bring important insights to the council’s global community and expressed interest in working together as the hospitality company continues its international growth. Guevara also highlighted luxury travel, sustainability and exceptional guest experiences as key areas where the Group’s leadership could contribute to WTTC’s priorities.
Global Hospitality Portfolio Spans 30 Countries and Territories
Mandarin Oriental traces its origins to two renowned Asian hotels: The Mandarin in Hong Kong and The Oriental in Bangkok. The combination of their names established the identity of a hospitality brand that has developed into one of the world’s recognised luxury hotel groups. Over more than six decades, the company has built its reputation around personalised service, distinctive design and its Asian heritage.
The Group currently operates 47 hotels, 16 residences and 44 exceptional homes across 30 countries and territories. Its portfolio includes properties in major international cities, resort destinations and emerging markets, reflecting its evolution from its Asian roots into a global luxury hospitality operator. With further projects under development, Mandarin Oriental aims to expand its worldwide hotel portfolio to 100 properties by 2033.
Group Emphasises Responsible Growth and Global Collaboration
Mandarin Oriental Group Chief Executive Laurent Kleitman said the company was pleased to rejoin the WTTC Executive Committee as it enters a new phase of global growth. He described WTTC as an important platform for connecting people, cultures and communities and emphasised the value of working with industry partners to shape the future of travel and tourism. Kleitman also highlighted the Group’s commitment to responsible growth, meaningful collaboration, and creating long-term value for the destinations and communities where it operates. He noted that the future of luxury hospitality would depend not only on high-quality services but also on exceptional experiences that create meaningful human connections.
WTTC Strengthens Private-Sector Leadership in Tourism
The World Travel & Tourism Council represents the private sector of the global Travel & Tourism industry and works to highlight the sector’s economic and social contributions. Its membership includes chairpersons, presidents and chief executives of leading companies across hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators, technology platforms and destinations.
WTTC works with industry leaders and governments to encourage sustainable tourism growth, support global policy development and provide research on the industry’s economic impact. Mandarin Oriental’s return to its Executive Committee adds the experience of a major international luxury hospitality group to the council’s leadership network at a time when the company is pursuing significant global expansion.
