Langham Hospitality Group Will Open Venice and Riyadh Hotels
The luxury hospitality firm is expanding its global portfolio with new locations in Italy and Saudi Arabia by 2027.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Middle East
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Langham Hospitality Group announced plans to open a 133-room hotel on the island of Murano in Venice by 2027. The company is also expanding into the Middle East with a new property in the Diriyah district of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Why it matters
These developments signify a major expansion for the group as it builds upon its existing footprint of more than 30 hotels worldwide. The move marks a strategic effort to enter new international markets while leveraging historic properties.
The Langham, Venice will feature 133 rooms housed within a 16th-century building on Murano island. This expansion is part of a broader strategy managed by parent company Great Eagle Holdings.
The players
Langham Hospitality Group
This international luxury hotel operator manages a global collection of hotels and is currently overseen by Great Eagle Holdings.
Josh Littman
He currently serves as the head of development for EMEA at Langham Hospitality Group and previously spent over five years at Starwood Hotels.
The details
The Venice project involves the conversion of a 16th-century building owned by Palladium Italia. Meanwhile, the Riyadh location represents the first Langham hotel to enter the Middle East market.
Timeline
Josh Littman joined the group as head of development for EMEA in June 2026.
The Langham, Venice is scheduled to open in 2027.
Travel Outlook
This development follows the broader pattern of luxury hospitality investment within the Saudi Arabian tourism sector, particularly in the historic Diriyah district. These projects reflect a global shift as established brands prioritize high-profile historic renovations and emerging luxury hubs.
Travelers looking for luxury accommodations in Italy can expect a new premium option on Murano island beginning in 2027. Those planning visits to Saudi Arabia should monitor updates on the Diriyah development for future booking availability.
The takeaway
Luxury hotel operators are increasingly looking to balance historic European preservation with rapid new development in Middle Eastern cultural districts. Travelers should expect these shifts to increase the variety of high-end lodging options available in both regions.
Further reading
For more information on regional tourism growth, visit the /travel/travel-destinations/middle-east/ section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by CoStar.
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