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Elegant Traveller

Are There Any 7 Star Hotels in the World?

schedule3 Minute Read

03-Jun-2026 Mark Martin

Are There Any 7 Star Hotels in the World?

We aim to clear up what is meant by the term 7 star hotels, where the term came from & what it means for your next luxury holiday.

The concept of 7 star hotels has fascinated luxury travellers for decades, yet it is also one of the most misunderstood terms in the hospitality industry. At Elegant Resorts, we are frequently asked questions about 7 star hotels, including whether they really exist, how many there are, and what qualifies a property to earn such a prestigious title.
We are using this opportunity to clear up the misunderstanding surrounding 7 star hotels by answering some of the questions we get asked most frequently on the topic. From the origins of the phrase to the hotels most commonly associated with it, this guide explains everything you need to know about one of luxury travel's most controversial classifications.

Are There Any 7 Star Hotels in the World?

ER

One of the most common questions we receive is: are there any 7 star hotels? The simple answer is no. There are currently no officially recognised 7 star hotels anywhere in the world. Hotel rating systems are typically administered by tourism authorities, industry organisations or independent rating bodies and these systems generally award a maximum of 5 stars. While some countries and organisations may have their own unique grading criteria, there is no universally recognised hospitality classification above five stars. This means that no hotel can officially be awarded a seven-star rating. Despite this, the phrase continues to be used widely in travel media and popular culture. Certain exceptional luxury properties have managed to stand out so spectacularly for their service, facilities, design and exclusivity that they are often referred to as 7 star hotels, even though the designation remains entirely unofficial.

What is a 7 Star Hotel?

ER

The term '7 Star Hotel' is used within the travel and hospitality industry to describe hotels that are considered to be among the most luxurious properties in the world. These hotels are seen as exceeding the standards typically associated with traditional 5 star accommodation and offering experiences that go above and beyond what guests might ordinarily expect. A hotel described as seven star is usually characterised by extraordinary levels of personalised service, exceptional accommodation, world-class dining, exclusive facilities and a commitment to creating unmatchable guest experiences. In many cases, these properties have become global icons in their own right. The phrase is widely believed to have originated following the opening of the Burj Al Arab in Dubai. According to popular accounts, a journalist visiting the property on a press trip described it as being so luxurious that it deserved more than the maximum 5 star rating, reportedly referring to it as a 7 star hotel. The description quickly gained attention and has remained associated with the property ever since. Although the term has no official standing, it has become a convenient way of identifying hotels that represent the very highest levels of luxury hospitality.

How Many 7 Star Hotels are There in the World?

ER

Another question we are frequently asked is how many 7 star hotels are there in the world? The answer depends on who you ask, as there is no official list or governing body responsible for designating hotels as 7 star. However, among those who are comfortable using the unofficial term, there are generally considered to be six hotels that have earned this reputation. These properties have become synonymous with ultra-luxury travel and are often recognised for setting new standards within the hospitality industry. While other luxury hotels may occasionally be described as 7 star, these six properties are the names most commonly associated with the title.

Are There Any 7 Star Hotels in Europe?

ER

At present, there is generally considered to be only one 7 star hotel in Europe. This is TownHouse Galleria in Milan, Italy. Located within the iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of Milan's most famous landmarks, the hotel has built a reputation for delivering a highly exclusive luxury experience. Its prime location, personalised service and elegant accommodation have helped it earn recognition among travellers seeking some of the finest hospitality experiences available in Europe. As with all 7 star hotel classifications, this status is unofficial. Nevertheless, TownHouse Galleria remains the only European property commonly included on lists of the world's most famous 7 star hotels.

How Many 7 Star Hotels in the UAE?

ER

The United Arab Emirates is widely regarded as the birthplace of the 7 star hotels phrase and it is therefore perhaps unsurprising that it is so commonly associated with terminology. At present, there are two 7 star hotels in the UAE. These are one of the leading destinations for luxury travel, so it is perhaps unsurprising that many people wonder how many 7 star hotels are located there Burj Al Arab Jumeirah in Dubai and Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is perhaps the most famous luxury hotel in the world and is often credited with inspiring the very concept of a 7 star hotel. Its distinctive sail-shaped design, lavish suites, and highly personalised service have made it a global symbol of lavish luxury. Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi is another property frequently associated with the 7 star hotel label. Renowned for its grandeur, stunning architecture, private beach and exceptional guest experience, it has become one of the Middle East's most celebrated luxury destinations. Together, these two iconic hotels best represent the UAE's unmatched reputation for pushing the boundaries of luxury hospitality.

Can You Provide a List of All the 7 Star Hotels in the World?

ER

Although there is no official list of 7 star hotels, six properties are generally recognised as carrying the unofficial title. Burj Al Arab Jumeirah in Dubai is widely regarded as the world's most famous 7 star hotel and remains synonymous with ultra luxury travel. Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi is celebrated for its opulent surroundings and exceptional guest experience. TownHouse Galleria in Milan is considered the only 7 star hotel in Europe and enjoys a prestigious location within one of the city's most famous landmarks. COMO Laucala Island in Fiji is renowned for offering extraordinary privacy and exclusivity on a stunning private island in the South Pacific. This is without question one of the best private island holiday destinations. Pangu 7 Star Hotel in Beijing, China, has built its reputation around luxury accommodation and its proximity to some of the city's most important attractions. This particular hotel even carries the "7 Star" phrase in its name. The Mark in New York is the only remaining 7 star hotel in the world. It has become one of the most prestigious luxury hotels in the United States, attracting discerning travellers from across the globe.. Together, these six properties are generally regarded by those who are comfortable using the moniker as being the only 7 star hotels in the world.

Experience Your Own 7 Star Holiday with Elegant Resorts

While there may not be any officially recognised 7 star hotels, the phrase continues to represent the very highest standards of luxury travel. From iconic landmarks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to exclusive retreats in Fiji, these exceptional properties demonstrate what is possible when hospitality is taken to extraordinary levels.
At Elegant Resorts, we aim to give every customer a 7 star worthy experience by helping them create their own tailor-made holiday package. We take account of each customer's individual wants and needs to create bespoke travel experiences that are every bit as unique as the people who enjoy them.
Whether you are dreaming of a luxury beach escape, a private island retreat, a cultural city break, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, our Luxury Travel Specialists are here to help. Get in touch today and start planning your next luxury holiday with Elegant Resorts.
Mark Martin

Mark Martin

SEO Consultant

An experienced marketing professional who has been fortunate enough to work in the travel industry since 2010. Over this time I've developed an increasing thirst for travel, particularly to holiday destinations which allow me to indulge my love of motorsport.

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