JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru: Luxury Urban Resort to Open by 2026 in Partnership with YTL Hotels

Published on December 5, 2025

YTL Hotels, in partnership with Marriott International, has officially announced the signing of JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru. This marks a new chapter for the city’s hospitality scene. The hotel is expected to open by December 2026 after converting the former Thistle Johor Bahru. This partnership shows both companies’ commitment to growth, innovation, and providing exceptional luxury hospitality experiences in Malaysia. The signing of this property highlights Johor Bahru’s rising status as a destination for business and leisure travelers. The hotel will be conveniently located at the crossroads of Jalan Sungai Chat and Jalan Lingkaran Dalam, offering easy access to major commercial, leisure, and transport hubs. It is just minutes from the future Bukit Chagar RTS Station and CIQ checkpoint. Additionally, it’s a short drive to Senai International Airport, Mid Valley Southkey, and LEGOLAND Malaysia. JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru is set to be a top destination for visitors to the region.

A Luxury Urban Resort Experience

The JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru will be a comprehensive urban resort offering a holistic well-being experience for guests. The hotel will feature 410 rooms and sit on a 1.9-hectare property designed with contemporary luxury in mind. Guests can look forward to panoramic views of the city from the comfort of their rooms, as well as access to an exclusive Executive Lounge.

The property will also offer extensive recreation facilities, including an outdoor pool, a fitness center, a five-room spa, and sports amenities such as a tennis court and three pickleball courts. The hotel is designed to cater to both relaxation and active guests, providing the perfect environment for unwinding after a busy day of business or leisure activities.

Comprehensive Event Spaces and Dining Options

For business travelers and event organizers, the hotel will feature 2,517 square meters of event space. This includes a 900-square-meter grand ballroom and a 600-square-meter junior ballroom, perfect for large-scale conferences, weddings, and corporate events. The expansive facilities reflect JW Marriott’s focus on offering versatile and high-quality spaces for meetings and gatherings.

In addition to its event spaces, the hotel will also feature a variety of curated dining venues to suit a range of tastes. The all-day restaurant will offer a diverse selection of international and local cuisines, while a bakery/coffee kiosk will provide guests with quick, convenient options for light bites and beverages. A Chinese restaurant, smokehouse, and Lobby Lounge will further enhance the dining experience, ensuring that guests have access to a wide array of culinary delights.

The hotel’s design will also incorporate JW Marriott’s signature JW Garden, a tranquil green space amidst the busy city, providing a peaceful retreat for guests to relax and rejuvenate. Additionally, a Kids’ Club will cater to younger guests, ensuring that the whole family can enjoy their stay at this luxury resort.

Strategic Expansion in Malaysia and Southeast Asia

The opening of JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru marks a key milestone in Marriott International’s expansion strategy in Malaysia and Southeast Asia. It will be the second JW Marriott property in the country, joining JW Marriott Hotel Kuala Lumpur. The addition of this luxury hotel further demonstrates Marriott’s confidence in the growth of Malaysia’s tourism sector and its commitment to expanding its luxury footprint across the Asia Pacific region.

Johor Bahru: A Growing Destination for Business and Leisure

Johor Bahru has emerged as a popular destination for both business and leisure travelers, thanks to its proximity to Singapore and its role as an important commercial and industrial hub in Malaysia. The city’s strategic location and strong connectivity have made it a key point for travelers looking to explore Malaysia’s southern region.

In recent years, Johor Bahru has seen significant growth in tourism, driven by its appeal as a gateway for international visitors and its vibrant cultural and recreational offerings. The addition of JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru will further enhance the city’s appeal, providing luxury accommodations and high-quality services that will attract even more visitors to this dynamic location.

A Commitment to Luxury and Exceptional Service

With its emphasis on holistic well-being, modern luxury, and intuitive service, JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru is set to become a benchmark for luxury hospitality in the region. The hotel’s comprehensive facilities, luxurious accommodations, and prime location make it an ideal choice for travelers looking to experience the best of Johor Bahru.

This new property exemplifies the shared vision of YTL Hotels and Marriott International to create enduring value through world-class hospitality experiences. As Johor Bahru continues to grow as a dynamic destination, the JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru will serve as a luxurious sanctuary for discerning travelers.

Conclusion

The signing of JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru marks an exciting new chapter in Malaysia’s tourism and hospitality sector. The hotel will transform the former Thistle Johor Bahru property. Its strategic location and luxury amenities will help it become a top spot for both business and leisure travelers. With a planned opening in December 2026, the JW Marriott Hotel Johor Bahru will play an important role in the ongoing development of Johor Bahru as a major regional hub.