The region, which encompasses Mexico, the Caribbean and South America, currently has at least 449 upper segment projects underway, as indicated by our database.
North American nod
This development constituency is geared towards the more northerly areas of the territory, with the North American sites representing 62% of this pipeline, that’s 279 records, as opposed to South America’s 170.
Around 30% of these developments are in Mexico, which tops the country count on at least 126 projects. In a distant second is Brazil with 38, closely followed by Caribbean nation Dominican Republic on 34.
On an even more granular level, the leading cities for upcoming high end hotels are a trio of Mexican powerhouses: Cancun, with 17; Mexico City on 14; and Tulum with 12.
Luxury liking
Luxury properties lead the way in the development stakes, taking a 58% share of the pipeline, equating to 260 sites, with the remaining 189 hotels in the four star category.
The vast majority of projects are newbuildings, representing 379 developments or 84% of our records. This compares to 50 refurbishments, 13 conversions and seven extensions.
Steady stream
Deliveries look to be fairly constant over the next few years, with 2024 scheduled to bring 131 properties online and 2025 almost maintaining that rate, with 126 currently expected. The pace slows in 2026, with only 53 sites expected to complete, while in the last few weeks of this year, 20 more sites are slated for completion. The remaining 119 hotels are either due further in the future or are yet to be designated a delivery date.
Construction phases are similarly evenly distributed, with 168 Latin American sites under construction, plus 31 in pre-opening. Further back in the process, 109 projects are in planning, 72 are in pre-planning and 69 are at a vision stage.
Big brand battle
Major large hotel chains are competing for supremacy in the region, with Marriott International seemingly topping the standings on a minimum of 63 upper segment sites. Next up is Hilton Worldwide on at least 47, with Accor making the podium on 33, at worst.
In terms of individual brands, Marriott Hotels & Resorts claims first place with at least 14 developments, Hilton Garden Inn reaches runner-up spot on a minimum of 11, while that group’s sister brand Curio Collection shares third with Hard Rock International’s Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos, with both posting at least 11 upcoming hotels.
Major undertakings
Notable projects to watch out for include a dual Marriott International luxury development in Mexico’s Costa Mujeres: the 283-key JW Marriott All-Inclusive Costa Mujeres and the 300-key W All-Inclusive Costa Mujeres, both due for delivery in 2026. The adults-only W will be home to five food-and-beverage concepts, several pools, event space and residences, while the JW Marriott will feature six dining venues, multiple pools, meeting rooms and residences. The two resorts will be connected by a 70,000-sq-ft complex called The Village. Open to both guests and visitors, the Village will house a mix of food and beverage offerings, retail shops and event space.
One of the largest undertakings in the region is the 3,350-key Moon Palace Punta Cana coming to the Dominican Republic in Q4 2024. Marking Palace Resorts’ national debut, the luxury all-inclusive property will have 20 eateries, nine bars, seven swimming pools and a water park, along with a 75-booth wellness spa, a casino and a large convention centre.
