Shangri-La Group has signed an agreement with United Bodrum Turizm A.Ş. to manage a new luxury resort in Bodrum, Türkiye. The property, to be named Shangri-La Bodrum, will be the group's second in the country, following Shangri-La Bosphorus, Istanbul, and is part of its expansion strategy across key leisure destinations in Europe and the Mediterranean.
The signing ceremony took place at Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong, attended by Hui Kuok, Chairman and Group Chief Executive Officer; Chee Wui Chua, Executive Director and Chief Finance Officer; and Chris Phong, Group Head of Investment and Asset Management. United Bodrum Turizm A.Ş. was represented by Güngör Çepni, Chairman; Kamil Uğurlu, Partner; and Ferzan Çelikkanat, Owner Representative.
The resort will be located in Yalikavak on the north-western end of the Bodrum peninsula, approximately ten minutes from Yalıkavak Marina. It will comprise 70 guest rooms and ten private villas, along with a private beach and views of the Aegean Sea. The opening is expected in the first half of 2029.
Chee Wui Chua, Executive Director and CFO of Shangri-La Group, said: “Bodrum’s spectacular natural setting, international appeal, and rising recognition as a global luxury hub make it an exceptional addition to our portfolio. We are delighted to bring Shangri-La’s timeless hospitality and contemporary sophistication to this remarkable corner of the world.”
Güngör Çepni, Chairman of United Bodrum Turizm A.Ş., said: “We are proud to collaborate with Shangri-La Group on a project that will redefine luxury hospitality in Bodrum. This resort will set a new benchmark for refined living and elevate Bodrum’s global standing as a destination of distinction.”
Why it matters
The signing marks Shangri-La's second entry into Türkiye, reinforcing Bodrum's position as a growing luxury destination. The development aligns with the group's stated strategy of expanding in leisure markets across Europe and the Mediterranean. For the travel trade, the addition of a 70-key resort with private villas and a private beach in Yalikavak will increase high-end accommodation supply in the region, potentially attracting affluent travellers and influencing package offerings. The project also signals continued international investment in Türkiye's hospitality sector, with a management agreement structure that allows the owner to leverage Shangri-La's brand and operational expertise.
