Mandarin Oriental announces new luxury resort on Mexico’s Riviera Maya

The resort, slated to open in 2028, will feature 120 guestrooms and suites, each with private pools and Caribbean Sea views

Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group has announced a luxury resort set to open in 2028 on Mexico’s Riviera Maya. Located in the Kanai development, a 680-acre masterplan on the Yucatán Peninsula, the resort will be just 30 minutes from Cancun International Airport and 10 minutes from Playa del Carmen. Emphasising environmental conservation, Kanai dedicates only 9 per cent of its land to buildings, preserving the surrounding jungle and mangroves.

Mandarin Oriental Kanai, Riviera Maya will feature 120 guestrooms and suites, each with private pools and Caribbean Sea views, alongside 50 branded residences with private beach club access. The architecture and design will be managed by Migdal Arquitectos from Mexico City and New York’s Meyer Davis studio, blending local materials and Mayan influences for a seamless indoor-outdoor experience. Landscape architects Maat Handasa will integrate the surrounding natural environment into the resort, while Esrawe Studio will add unique design touches to the spa and beach club.

In what is a boon for the resort, renowned Mexican artist Bosco Sodi will act as art curator and design consultant. Known for his Wabi-Sabi aesthetic, Sodi’s work finds beauty in natural imperfections, aligning well with the resort’s eco-focused philosophy. “Our creative approach will enhance the resort’s ambiance, creating spaces that inspire contemplation and connection with the environment,” he commented.

The resort will provide a diverse dining experience with locally inspired and international cuisines across several venues, including a beach club, café and pool bar. Mandarin Oriental’s spa, meanwhile, will offer signature wellness programs and treatments inspired by Mexican healing practices. Facilities will include an indoor lap pool, an outdoor spa trail and three outdoor pools for families and adults. A dedicated Kid’s Club will offer a range of activities to engage younger guests.

Laurent Kleitman, Group Chief Executive of Mandarin Oriental, stated, “Mandarin Oriental Kanai, Riviera Maya exemplifies our commitment to delighting our fans at every opportunity, embracing local culture through a curated range of exceptional experiences, art, and design.”

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