The 65-storey luxury property, located on the Kowloon waterfront, beat last year’s winner Capella Bangkok to secure first place in the prestigious global ranking, announced at an awards ceremony in London.

Since opening in 2019, the contemporary 413-room hotel has become one of Hong Kong’s most recognisable landmarks and a major player in Asia’s luxury hospitality scene. It has appeared in the top three of the World’s 50 Best Hotels twice before, but this is its first time claiming the top position.

Designed by Taiwanese designer Tony Chi, Rosewood Hong Kong blends striking architecture with refined interiors, art collections and fine dining overlooking Victoria Harbour.

Accepting the award at London’s Old Billingsgate venue, Angus Pitkethley, complex director of sales and marketing for Rosewood Hong Kong, said: "It is a real surprise and a real honour to come out on top this year. What an emotional night here in London. Just a huge amount of pride and gratitude to be recognised with this award."

Pitkethley added that the hotel’s success was down to its people. He said: "We have an incredible team back at the hotel, who are not only passionate about hospitality, but really passionate about Hong Kong."

Emma Sleight, head of content for The World’s 50 Best Hotels, praised the property for setting new standards in luxury hospitality.

Sleight said: "This exceptional hotel offers world-class service and sensational guest experiences in the heart of one of the world’s most bustling and dynamic destinations. Rosewood Hong Kong’s positioning as No.1 further consolidates Asia as a leading luxury travel destination for both business and leisure travelers."

The Four Seasons Bangkok at Chao Phraya River was ranked second, followed by Capella Bangkok in third. Passalacqua, an 18th-century villa on Italy’s Lake Como, came in fourth and was also named Best Boutique Hotel. Raffles Singapore, the historic home of the Singapore Sling, completed the top five.