What exactly is a 7-Star Hotel?
Amidst the glittering array of five-star hotels, there lurks a mysterious and mythical legend – the seven-star hotel. Although there are no official seven-star ratings, whispers, and rumors abound of hotels that have achieved this unattainable level of opulence. Thus, our list is to help de-mystify the soft chatter while bringing you some of the most exquisite hotels in the world.
These are no mere hotels – they are palaces of extravagance, temples of indulgence, and playgrounds for the ultra-wealthy.
With amenities fit for royalty and service that borders on the supernatural, these seven-star hotels cater to the most discerning guests – from global icons to titans of industry.
It’s no wonder they’re shrouded in secrecy – for those who experience their ethereal charms, they become the stuff of legend. Even if unofficially proclaimed as a 7-star hotel.
Standing tall and proud in Dubai’s skyline, the Burj Al Arab declares itself the sole 7-star hotel in the world, a place of emblematic and iconic stature (more on Burj Al Arab in a moment).
From its stunning architecture to breathtaking views and luxurious amenities, this grandeur palace promises an extraordinary experience to all its guests.
The Burj Al Arab Hotel would humbly say they achieved that status directly from their guests. Rumor has it that the concept of a “7-star hotel” was first introduced by a journalist who attended the opening of the Burj Al Arab in Dubai.
As we mentioned, the 7-star rating is not a recognized hotel classification, but an unmistakable indication of the exclusive and lavish treatment it provides, outshining even the finest 5-star luxury hotels.
The journalist felt that the standards of the hotel were far higher than regular five-star hotels and thus coined the term “7-star hotel.”
What you can expect at a 7-star hotel?
Here are some reasons that we think deem fit for an accommodation to be one of the top seven-star hotels in the world:
Private Drivers, Chefs, Cleaners, and Nannies
These hotels offer private drivers, chefs, cleaners, and even nannies, ensuring that every need of the client is fulfilled. A stay here is nothing short of a fantasy.
Private Infinity Pools and Beachside Bedrooms with Panoramic Views
We look for elegantly designed exteriors against expansive backdrops in a way that makes them extraordinary. The rooms are spacious, and there is a wide range of room types. The views from the rooms are exceptionally overwhelming.
Personalized Experience
Every customer’s experience is personalized, and their interests, likes, and dislikes are taken care of. Even your pets should they decide to tag along.
Our List of 7 of the Most Luxurious 7-Star Hotels in the World
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Suites starting around US$1,100 per night
The Burj Al Arab has often been described as the world’s first “seven-star hotel” or “the most luxurious hotel in the world” since opening its doors in 1999.
This sail-shaped hotel is located on an artificial island off the coast of Dubai and boasts a stunning exterior and interior design. The hotel offers 202 luxurious suites, each of which has a private butler service, a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce (said to have the largest fleet of Rolls-Royce in the world), and access to some of the best dining venues in the world.
The Burj Al Arab is also home to the world’s highest tennis court, a helipad, and a spa that offers exclusive therapies and treatments.
World-Class Butler Service and 24-Hour Concierge
One of the most notable features of the Burj Al Arab is its world-class butler service and 24-hour concierge service.
The butlers are specially trained to cater to the guests’ every need and ensure the ultimate luxury experience. They are available 24/7 to assist guests with anything they might need during their stay, from unpacking luggage to arranging reservations for restaurants or activities.
Luxurious Hermès Amenities
The Burj Al Arab provides bespoke Hermès amenities to its guests, including toiletries, bathrobes, and slippers. These amenities are of the highest quality, ensuring guests’ ultimate comfort and luxury during their stay.
Master Bathroom with Full-Size Jacuzzi and Five-Head Rain Shower
The master bathroom in each suite is complete with a full-size Jacuzzi and a separate five-head rain shower, ensuring guests can relax and unwind in ultimate luxury.
Design Inspiration: A Billowing Arabian Dhow Sail
The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah’s design was inspired by the billowing sails of an Arabian dhow, a traditional sailing vessel used for fishing and pearl diving.
The architects wanted to create a building that would reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region while also representing the modernity and innovation of Dubai. The result was a stunningly beautiful structure that has become an icon of modern architecture.
The building is 321 meters tall and consists of two wings that slope outwards, creating the shape of a sail. The wings are connected by a central atrium that rises 180 meters above the ground.
The exterior of the building is covered in a double layer of Teflon-coated fiberglass, which gives it a shimmering effect in the sunlight. The building also features a helipad that extends out from the 28th floor, making it one of the most exclusive and sought-after landing spots in the world.
The cheapest rooms start at around US$1,100 per night, and the most expensive suite can cost up to US$25,000 per night.
Pillow Menu
At Burj Al Arab, guests can expect luxury in even the smallest details, such as the pillow menu. Each room comes with a pillow menu featuring 17 different options, ensuring that guests get a good night’s sleep. There’s something you don’t see every day!
Emirates Palace – Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Rooms start at around US$400 per night
Nestled on a pristine private beach, Emirates Palace is a luxury five-star hotel in Abu Dhabi. With its opulent Arabian décor and world-class amenities, it’s no surprise that it’s considered the epitome of luxe, making our list as one of the top luxurious hotels in the world.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Arabian culture and hospitality, then a stay at the Emirates Palace is a must-try experience.
This hotel is spread over 85 hectares of lush gardens and features 394 rooms and suites, all of which are exquisitely furnished and equipped with state-of-the-art amenities.
The hotel also boasts 14 restaurants and bars, a private beach, a marina, and a world-class spa that offers a range of treatments inspired by Arabic traditions.
The Emirates Palace consists of 390 residences, with 92 suites and 22 residential suites. The majority of the suites are furnished in gold and marble, with stunning sea or garden views.
With its grand central building boasting a stunning marble floor and a magnificent dome adorned with glistening gold accents, this luxurious destination is fit for royalty.
The penthouse floor, known for its lavishness, is home to six Rulers’ Suites – an exclusive retreat reserved only for esteemed dignitaries.
Each suite comes complete with a dedicated 24-hour butler service, ensuring a tailor-made and comfortable stay, with no detail left unattended.
The construction costs were around US$3 billion (11.02 billion dirhams), making it one of the most expensive hotels ever built.
The Emirates Palace is surpassed only by the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas in Las Vegas (US$3.9 billion) and the Marina Bay Sands in Singapore (US$5.5 billion). The price of luxury may not be priceless, but still a pretty penny. Regardless, sparing no expense puts this at the top of our luxurious 7-star hotels list.
Pangu 7 Star Hotel – Beijing, China
Suites starting around US$580 per night
This hotel offers a unique blend of traditional Chinese architecture and modern luxury. The hotel is located near the Olympic Park and features 234 rooms and suites, all of which are elegantly decorated with traditional Chinese motifs.
The Pangu 7 Star Hotel also boasts a private museum, a spa, and several dining venues that serve authentic Chinese cuisine. We’d expect that, but did not expect seeing “7 Star” in your hotel name. Maybe it is a real thing after all.
Unique Experiences
In addition to its standard amenities, the Pangu 7 Star Hotel offers unique experiences that set it apart from other luxury hotels.
For example, guests can take part in a traditional Chinese tea ceremony or watch a performance of Chinese opera. The hotel also has a private art gallery that features works by prominent Chinese artists.
Another unique experience offered by the hotel is the opportunity to explore the surrounding area on a private yacht. Guests can take a tour of the nearby Olympic Park and Water Cube, or simply enjoy a leisurely cruise along the river. The hotel also offers a helicopter service for those who want to see Beijing from above.
This hotel is known for its exceptional services and amenities that go beyond the standard five-star rating. The hotel was designed by the world-renowned architect, C.Y. Lee, who is also the mastermind behind Taipei 101.
The name “Pangu” is derived from an ancient Chinese creation myth in which Pangu was the first living being who created the world.
The hotel has 234 rooms and suites spread over 20 floors that are decorated in a Chinese modern and warm style. It is equipped with state-of-the-art audio/video communication technology and features 140 elegant suites, including a palatial, one-of-a-kind Presidential Suite, and 84 Grand Deluxe, Premium Deluxe, and Premium Luxury Rooms.
The hotel features luxury interiors designed by Milan-based Ricardo Bello Dias. The guest rooms have eight-foot ceilings and Baker furniture, which is similar to the furniture found in the U.S. Presidential White House.
One of Pangu 7 Star Hotel’s most remarkable features is its location. It is situated in the Olympic area, next to the Birds Nest and the Water Cube, which are the National Stadium and Olympic Swimming Pool, respectively. Both are also must-see architectural wonders.
The architects who designed the Pangu 7 Star Hotel were also mindful of controlling sound pollution in this hyper-luxurious environment.
The world-renowned architectural acoustic consultants, WSDG provided expert counsel on avoiding sound leakage, reverberation, HVAC, elevator, generator, and related noise issues. That’s some serious thoughtfulness in this top luxury 7-star hotel.
Laucala Island Resort – Fiji
Rooms start around US$6,180 per night or buy out the entire island for US$187,200 per night
Nestled amidst the serenity of nature, the Laucala Island Resort in Fiji offers a plethora of experiences to indulge in while basking in the glory of ultimate hospitality, world-class comfort, and tranquil beach vibes.
Laucala Island Resort is situated on 3200 unspoiled acres, making it the perfect vacation spot for those who want to indulge in relaxation and privacy. With its breathtaking beauty and space, the resort offers guests an unforgettable experience.
From the warm-hearted smiles of the islanders to the resort’s own farm, where a large part of the products it requires are grown- from vegetables to poultry, Laucala Island Resort is committed to offering guests an authentic Fijian experience.
The resort has 25 unique Fijian villas, with a choice of overwater or beachfront, as well as hilltop residences carved into the volcanic cliffs.
Each villa opens onto its own private pool. Inside, you’ll find the expected mod cons such as Bose sound systems, giant plasma TVs, and a personal bar stocked with champagne.
Exuberant sofas evoke seashells, light shades are crafted from hundreds of butterfly cocoons, and the bathtubs are carved from single slabs of granite.
Guests can experience ultimate private island living with an 18-hole Golf course, Spa, outstanding cuisine from the island’s five restaurants, private boats to explore diving or fishing, and 3 miles of trails and activities to satisfy every whim.
The heart of Laucala Island Resort is its garden, where a wonderland of natural ingredients includes herbs, spices, tropical fruits, and vegetables.
The resort’s spa makes the most of this fresh spread, crafting a range of chemical-free soaps, shampoos, and lotions that are personally prepared for each guest upon arrival.
The resort’s spa is located on a forested hilltop location among the birds. The spa uses the island’s herbs, stones, flowers, fruits, and soils to create treatments that cater to individual needs.
Laucala Island Resort has a strong focus on sustainability and eco-friendliness.
As a result, the island offers scenery like no other with natural forests, coconut plantations, traditional-style farms, mangroves, beaches, coral reefs, and even volcanic mountains. As the saying goes, if you’ve got it, flaunt it!
The Mark – New York, New York
Starting rate at around US$1,100 per night
Located in the heart of New York’s fashion destination, Madison Avenue, The Mark is a place not to be missed. This hotel has long been a favorite of celebrities and high-profile individuals and for good reason.
With its movie-like vibe, luxurious rooms, and exceptional service, guests are sure to feel like royalty during their stay.
This has been a preferred destination for celebrities attending the Met Gala for over a decade. Some of the A-listers who have stayed at The Mark include Oprah Winfrey, Anna Wintour, Russell Crowe, Marc Jacobs, Katie Holmes, Kelly Ripa, Novak Djokovic, and even members of the British Royal family.
Speaking of celebrities, Robert De Niro doesn’t mess around when it comes to hotel style with his very own Greenwich Hotel you can stay when visiting New York.
Apart from its celebrity guests, The Mark is also a favorite among local entertainment, art, fashion, media, and business personalities.
Woody Allen is one such regular, along with other high-net-worth individuals who come to the hotel for breakfast or lunch at Jean-Georges Vongerichten-led restaurant, which is tucked away at the back of the hotel to maintain privacy.
One of the most impressive features of The Mark is its two-story, dual full-floor penthouse suite. According to Elite Traveler, it is currently ranked as the largest and most expensive suite in the world, outshining Geneva’s Hotel President Wilson at number two.
To give you an indication, The Mark Hotel hosted Meghan Markle’s baby shower, at a jaw-dropping US$75,000 a night. If you’re going to throw a party, might as well pick a luxurious 7-star hotels.
While it may be difficult to secure a room at The Mark during high-profile events like the Met Gala or Fashion Week, the hotel offers a sense of normalcy and privacy for its guests.
Like Novak Djokovic, many A-listers and billionaires prefer to stay at The Mark to escape the paparazzi and enjoy a quiet retreat, and sometimes just a nice quiet lunch.
Signiel Seoul – Seoul, South Korea
Rates start around US$600 per night, Grand Deluxe Double
From the moment you arrive at Signiel Seoul, you’ll be treated like a celebrity. The staff members are experts in hospitality, and they’ll go above and beyond to ensure that your stay is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
They’re fluent in multiple languages, so communication won’t be a problem, and they’ll greet you with a gracious bow every time you arrive or depart. That’s a nice touch at this luxurious 7-star hotel.
But to really understand what makes this a flagship hotel, you’ll need to understand the iconic LOTTE World Tower, where this top luxury 7-star hotel is located.
LOTTE World Tower, Home to Signiel Hotel
This remarkable structure is the tallest building in South Korea and the 5th tallest in the world, standing at an impressive height of 555 meters.
One of the most unique features of Lotte World Tower is its design, which was inspired by traditional Korean ceramics and writing brushes.
The tower consists of nine different-shaped components that grow progressively wider as they ascend, giving it a dynamic and visually stunning appearance.
The hotel’s 235 rooms are spread across floors 87 to 101, offering breathtaking views of Seoul that you won’t find anywhere else. No matter which room you choose, you’ll be able to soak up the stunning panoramic vistas from your window.
But the luxury doesn’t stop there. The Signiel Seoul 7-star luxury hotel has two highly acclaimed restaurants that offer contemporary cuisine in a sophisticated atmosphere. From traditional Korean dishes to international flavors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
And if you’re looking to relax and unwind, head to the property’s 85th-floor pool, where you can soak up the skyline views while lounging in the water.
The hotel is within walking distance of many of Seoul’s top attractions, including the Lotte World amusement park, the Seoul Tower, and the Gyeongbokgung Palace.
The rooms and suites, all of which are decorated in a modern and sophisticated style, are spacious and well-appointed, and they all feature floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the city.
The hotel also has a number of amenities, including a world-class spa, a fitness center, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of Seoul.
Signiel Seoul is home to a number of restaurants, including a Michelin-starred restaurant, a Korean restaurant, and a Western restaurant.
For dining, STAY Modern Restaurant is available to offer its guests a creative, refined French cuisine experience of multi-Michelin starred chef, Yannick Alleno.
Additionally, Salon de SIGNIEL located on the 79th floor of the hotel offers a lounge exclusively to hotel guests where they can try different types of tea and coffee while enjoying a view of the Han River.
The Brando – Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
Rates start around US$4,200 per night for a 1-bedroom villa, usually 2-night minimum stay
With one, two, and three-bedroom villas available, The Brando Hotel is the perfect destination for couples, families, and groups traveling together.
Accessible only by private plane, The Brando Hotel offers a secluded and exclusive escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
If you’re searching for an exclusive and luxurious private island resort, The Brando in French Polynesia may be just what you need. Nestled on the breathtakingly beautiful private island of Tetiaroa, this resort offers carefree luxury in the midst of pristine nature.
The atoll that makes up the island is composed of a dozen small islands surrounding a sparkling lagoon 30 miles northeast of Tahiti.
An atoll is When the island completely subsides beneath the water leaving a ring of growing coral with an open lagoon in its center.
This resort was built by legendary actor Marlon Brando and Richard Bailey, who shares ownership of the island.
The Brando is unique and offers 35 villas on white-sand beaches frequently visited by sea turtles, manta rays, and exotic birds. The resort was designed to reflect Polynesian lifestyles and culture.
They offer one, two, and three-bedroom villas, as well as the Teremoana Residence. The level of privacy and seclusion you get here is seriously unmatched!
Each villa has been carefully designed to blend into and enhance the serenity of the surroundings, so you’ll feel as though the indoors and outdoor have merged together.
The Brando provides two restaurants showcasing Polynesian-inspired dishes, East/West fusion, and classic French cuisine, as well as a luxurious spa and wellness center.
This natural wonderland was once home to the legendary actor Marlon Brando, who finally found his home here.
Getting to The Brando is quite easy, but it’s only accessible by a 20-minute private plane flight from Tahiti. Once you’re there, you’ll find that the resort concierge can help you figure out the flight and swing the rate for the villas.
The resort features 35 deluxe villas, each with its own private beach area and plunge pool, providing guests with unparalleled privacy and relaxation. The villas are nestled on white-sand beaches, with rare biodiversity and a natural sanctuary for birds and marine life.
The Brando was designed to reflect Polynesian lifestyles and culture, making it a unique and immersive experience for guests.
The resort offers a range of services and amenities that cater to every need, including restaurants showcasing Polynesian and French cuisine, a luxurious Polynesian spa, a beach bar & massive infinity pool, an organic garden, a library, a boutique, water sports, and an environmental research station with guest programs.
The Brando stands out amongst the sea of opulent resorts with its unwavering dedication to sustainability. With a plethora of inventive initiatives and cutting-edge technologies at their disposal, they have succeeded in achieving carbon neutrality while simultaneously ensuring the ultimate comfort and luxury for their guests.
Imagine harnessing the cooling power of the deep sea to provide thermal comfort in a resort’s buildings. That’s exactly what the SWAC (Sea Water Air Conditioning) system does.
Drawing water from 930 meters (3,000 feet) below sea level, this system helps to cool the air and reduce energy consumption by almost 90%. It’s an innovative solution that’s as impressive as it is sustainable.
Conclusion
Staying at a 7-star hotel promises to be an experience unlike any other, but it comes with a hefty price tag. However, if you’re looking for the ultimate luxury travel experience, then it’s definitely worth considering.
Prices vary depending on the hotel and season but expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on if you want an entire island or not. It’s your call.
