Meliá Hotels Announces Nine New Malta and Gozo Properties

Meliá Hotels International has announced an ambitious expansion into Malta and Gozo, with nine new hotels set to open across the islands over the next three years. The Spanish hospitality giant's investment comes as Malta consolidates its position as one of Europe's fastest-growing tourism destinations.

Developed in partnership with Agius Group through its Blue Clay Collection hospitality arm, the portfolio will include properties under The Meliá Collection, INNSiDE by Meliá, Affiliated by Meliá, and Meliá Hotels and Resorts brands. Each property has been designed to reflect local identity, from restored historic residences in Valletta to converted townhouses in Gozo's Victoria.

The announcement follows the opening of Hotel Ben Marsalforn Affiliated by Meliá in November 2025, featuring heated pools and panoramic views across Marsalforn Bay. The new openings will target both Malta's UNESCO World Heritage capital and Gozo's traditional villages including San Lawrenz, Għarb, Qala and Għajnsielem.

Gabriel Escarrer, Meliá’s Chairman and CEO, said the country’s Mediterranean culture, natural beauty, and deep heritage aligned perfectly with the group's brand values. “Through our partnership with Agius Group, we look forward to creating character-rich hotels that celebrate local identity whilst delivering the elevated guest experience Meliá is known for globally,” he stated.

The expansion arrives as Malta enjoys unprecedented tourism growth. The Mediterranean archipelago welcomed a record 3.56 million visitors in 2024, a 19.5 per cent increase on the previous year, with total tourist expenditure reaching €3.3 billion. Malta recorded the highest growth rate in tourism receipts among Southern Mediterranean destinations, outperforming Spain, Portugal, Cyprus and Croatia.

With tourism contributing approximately 15 per cent to Malta's GDP, the sector's momentum continues into 2026.