Author: bh@worldluxurychamber.com

The definition of luxury is evolving rapidly, shifting from material excess toward emotional richness and personal transformation. For today’s traveler, luxury is no longer defined by marble details or champagne service, but by calm, self-exploration, renewal, and meaningful connection. 

According to insights shared by Board Members of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce (WLCC) – a leading global network shaping dialogue among the world’s most influential luxury leaders – these shifts will define luxury travel in 2026 and signal a new era of high-end journeys rooted in intention, experience, and personal meaning. 

Experience-Led Travel & Emotional Connection 

Luxury in 2026 will prioritize meaning over materialism, as travelers increasingly seek experiences that create emotional impact, authenticity, and cultural resonance. Across the luxury sector, destinations and brands are rethinking how value is created, placing emotional connection and a strong sense of place at the center of the journey. Experiences that feel personal, immersive, and authentic will increasingly define what travelers perceive as true luxury. 

Holistic Wellness & Intentional Restoration 

Wellness has moved from a complementary offering to a central motivator of luxury travel. In 2026, travelers will increasingly seek journeys that combine physical restoration, mental clarity, and long-term well-being through medical-wellness retreats, mindfulness programs, and purpose-driven escapes. 

“One significant trend among ultra-luxury travellers is the increasing use of private air travel and yachts, transforming the journey itself into a luxurious experience. For instance, The Ritz-Carlton now has three superyachts, offering a meticulously curated food and beverage experience. Similarly, Four Seasons has introduced private branded jets, elevating the travel experience to new heights,” said Bob Kharazmi, Founder & CEO, Global Hotel Advisors LLC, a WLCC Board voice on global hospitality strategy. “Another growing trend is the focus on wellness. Luxury travelers are increasingly seeking experiences that blend spa retreats, medical-wellness vacations, mental health, and mindfulness escapes.” 

Solo Female Travel & Safety-Led Luxury 

Women are driving one of the most influential behavioral shifts in luxury travel. In 2026, solo female travelers will prioritize independence, safety, discretion, and deeply restorative experiences, prompting leading brands to rethink service design around anticipation and empowerment. 

“Luxury travel in 2026 will see a surge in solo women travelers seeking what I call ‘Intentional Restoration’ – wellness-focused experiences that blend absolute safety with complete freedom,” said Neen James, WLCC Board Member, Author of Exceptional Experiences, and Client Experience Expert. “The most discerning properties will master the balance between attentive service and respectful distance, creating environments where women can explore, recharge, and indulge without compromise. This means anticipating unique needs – from strategic room placement to curated wellness experiences and trusted local connections – while honoring the independence that defines these journeys. When luxury brands think like a concierge rather than a bellhop, they transform solo travel from a logistical challenge into a liberating, legacy-defining experience.” 

Private Membership Clubs & Exclusive Access 

Access, rather than ownership, is becoming the new currency of luxury. Bespoke private membership clubs are reshaping how high-net-worth travelers experience the world, offering hyper-personalized itineraries and entry to destinations and events unavailable to the general public. 

“The demand for experiential travel through bespoke private membership clubs is a powerful global trend that will accelerate significantly in 2026,” said Kassie Smith, Visionary and Real Estate Development Leader at KS Global, contributing to WLCC’s strategic perspective. “These exclusive clubs specialize in crafting highly personalized destination journeys, granting members access to exotic adventures, private resorts, and coveted global private events. Key drivers include the rise of wellness and medical tourism and exclusive access to elite experiences.” 

Ultra-Luxury Mobility & Neo-Nomad Living 

As travel increasingly merges with lifestyle, ultra-luxury mobility is redefining how global leaders move, live, and work. Private aviation, yachts, and mobile residences are transforming mobility itself into a statement of freedom, exclusivity, and control over time. 

“Neo-nomad living represents the next frontier of luxury – a lifestyle where mobility becomes the ultimate privilege,” noted Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce. “These ultra-luxury mobile residences allow global leaders to carry their world with them, blending freedom of movement with impeccably tailored comfort and the privacy of a truly personal sanctuary.” 

Cultural Immersion & Gastronomic Exploration 

Alongside these global shifts, destinations offering authentic cultural immersion paired with refined luxury are emerging as leaders. Culinary discovery and storytelling are becoming central pillars of the luxury journey, transforming restaurants and local heritage into essential components of the travel experience. 

“Luxury travel in 2026 will be defined by a shift toward experience-led journeys, where travelers seek deeper meaning, emotional connection, and authentic cultural engagement,” commented Iyad Rasbey, Vice President, Destination Tourism Development, Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, speaking as part of the WLCC Board’s global outlook on luxury travel. “Ras Al Khaimah is naturally aligned with these expectations, with its unspoiled landscapes, generous space, and inherent sense of place that modern luxury travelers increasingly prioritize. The Emirate’s intentionally curated hotel pipeline – including upcoming openings from Anantara, Sofitel, SO/ and the landmark Wynn Marjan Island – reflects this movement toward premium, experience-driven hospitality. As a result, Ras Al Khaimah is rapidly emerging as a leading luxury destination, propelled by a clear strategy and a hospitality inventory that is steadily shifting toward the upper-upscale and luxury segments.” 

This destination-led evolution is also visible across the wider Middle East. “It’s a space where Saudi Arabia and the wider GCC are now taking a leading role,” said Ahmed Alajmi, Chairman & Founder of Takara Hospitality Group, sharing insights aligned with WLCC’s global destination outlook. “Riyadh is emerging as a global destination for high-value travelers, driven by landmark developments and a rapidly expanding dining landscape. The arrival of ZIBA and Sold Out in the heart of the capital reflects a pivotal shift in which restaurants are no longer complementary to travel but an essential part of the luxury journey. As journeys increasingly revolve around culinary and cultural experiences, Saudi Arabia is setting the benchmark for next-generation luxury.” 

A Global Outlook Shaped by WLCC 

Across the WLCC Board, a shared perspective is emerging: luxury travel in 2026 will be defined not by extravagance, but by intention, access, wellbeing, and emotional resonance. From solo journeys and wellness-led escapes to neo-nomadic lifestyles and immersive cultural experiences, the future of luxury travel reflects a deeper desire for meaning, freedom, and connection. 

The World Luxury Chamber of Commerce continues to serve as a strategic forum where these global trends are identified and shaped by the leaders driving the luxury industry forward. 

Readers are invited to join the WLCC Community to receive curated news, expert insights, and exclusive updates from the world’s leading luxury minds. 

Subscribe today: https://worldluxurychamber.com/wlcc-community/  

In this exclusive interview, Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, sits down with WLCC Honorary Board Member Iyad Rasbey, Vice President of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority, to uncover the strategy behind one of the world’s most compelling destination transformations. With global travel shifting toward authenticity, emotional connection, and elevated experiences, Ras Al Khaimah is emerging as a standout case study in how a destination can evolve with purpose. Rasbey shares the vision, decisions, and guiding principles that are shaping the Emirate’s ascent as a luxury powerhouse, one built on nature, culture, and long-term sustainability.

Alexander Chetchikov: What was the original strategic insight that convinced you Ras Al Khaimah could evolve from an emerging destination into a luxury powerhouse?

Iyad Rasbey: Travellers are directing more of their budget toward experience-led holidays, driven by higher lifestyle expectations and a desire for greater meaning in how they travel. This steady rise in luxury and lifestyle demand is helping destinations stand out in a competitive market. These shifts are also influencing how value is created. New ultra-luxury brands are coming to markets, and destinations are keen to attract new projects or elevate quality and rethink their offer.

Ras Al Khaimah naturally has what modern luxury travellers value most – unspoiled landscapes, cultural authenticity, generous space, and a sense of place. This wasn’t something we had to manufacture; it was inherent in the destination. At a time when global luxury is shifting away from excess and toward emotional connection, experience, and authenticity, Ras Al Khaimah already embodied these attributes. The real catalyst came when we analysed our current and upcoming hospitality offering and saw not only strong existing foundations where more than half of our inventory is already in the luxury segment, but also the opportunity to shape a more intentional future.

Our upcoming hotel pipeline is deliberately curated to enhance the Emirate’s overall livability and attract a higher-yielding visitor who values quality and seeks deeper engagement. New openings from globally recognised luxury brands such as Anantara, Sofitel, and SO/, represent a conscious movement toward more premium experiences that elevate both the resident and guest experience.

With the opening of Wynn Marjan Island, the first integrated luxury resort in the region, and our hotel pipeline maturing, we expect nearly 80 percent of the Emirate’s total inventory to be in the luxury and upper-upscale categories in the coming years.

This deliberate evolution supports our strategic insight. Ras Al Khaimah is not simply capable of becoming a luxury powerhouse – it is already on that trajectory, and our role is to guide and accelerate it with purpose and clarity.

AC: How did you determine which elements of the Emirate – nature, culture, sustainability – would become the core pillars of its luxury identity?

IR: Ras Al Khaimah has something few destinations in the region can offer, and that is natural diversity, authentic heritage, and space to grow sustainably. When we examined global luxury travel trends, we saw a clear shift toward destinations that provide meaningful experiences, privacy, heritage, and nature-driven escapism. Luxury today is no longer defined by opulence alone, but by rarity, authenticity, and emotional connection. With our mountains, desert, coastline, mangroves, and rich cultural narratives, we knew we had the foundation to build a new kind of luxury destination. These pillars align perfectly with where luxury tourism is headed globally.

That naturally led us to highlight our landscapes, from mountains to coastline, as the defining stage on which luxury experiences could unfold. Our cultural heritage added depth, offering a narrative that is both timeless and distinctly ours. And sustainability became essential because high-value travelers now expect destinations to protect what makes them special. Importantly, our hotel landscape reflected this direction too. For example, the upcoming Saij Eco-lodge by Mantis Collection on Jebel Jais embodies nature escapism. Opening in 2026, it will be the first luxury, eco-driven mountain lodge of its kind in the UAE.

AC: In a country known for world-leading luxury cities, what was your approach to positioning Ras Al Khaimah with a distinctive and authentic luxury proposition?

IR: Our approach was grounded in complementarity. The UAE already excels in urban, architectural, and shock-and-awe luxury. Considering that we are only 45 minutes from Dubai, we chose to stand apart by embracing the kind of luxury that is rooted in space, nature, and authenticity. Ras Al Khaimah offers a serenity that contrasts beautifully with the energy of nearby urban hubs. Our proposition focuses on immersive, nature-led experiences and a slower, more reflective style of travel that allows visitors to connect deeply with the landscape and its stories. This is reflected in our hotel as well as in our attractions. In doing so, we’re creating a type of luxury offering that is unmistakably ours and inherently authentic.

AC: What are the most critical initiatives within Destination 2030 that directly support the Emirate’s luxury repositioning?

IR: The destination’s masterplan is essentially a blueprint that ensures Ras Al Khaimah evolves with intention, coherence, and long-term value. At its core, the strategy is driven by a curated hotel pipeline and the deliberate structuring of the Emirate into distinct, high-quality destination zones. These zones take advantage of our 68 kilometres of coastline and are being developed in a way that protects their natural integrity while offering luxury brands the opportunity to create one-of-a-kind, context-led experiences.

A major focus is on attracting premier hospitality names that align with our low-density, high-value philosophy. The introduction of brands such as Janu, Nobu Hotels, Four Seasons, W Hotels, The Unexpected Hotels, and other high-end brands is not incidental; it is the result of a selective approach that assesses how each property contributes to the broader masterplan, enhances experiential diversity, and elevates the Emirate’s premium positioning.

The master also advances a coordinated infrastructure plan that supports the luxury ecosystem—from mobility and accessibility enhancements to integrated green spaces, cultural touchpoints, and community-centric developments that improve resident livability. For example, we recently announced plans to develop a VVIP terminal at Ras Al Khaimah International Airport. In essence, the strategy ensures that as Ras Al Khaimah grows, it grows purposefully: building a destination where elevated hospitality, thoughtful planning, and the preservation of natural and cultural assets reinforce one another to create an exceptional luxury environment.

AC: How did high-profile collaborations and events (WTTC, AHIC, PATA) help elevate global perception and attract luxury travelers?

IR: These partnerships played a pivotal role in amplifying Ras Al Khaimah’s visibility and credibility internationally. Hosting influential tourism bodies and major global conferences positions the Emirate at the forefront of industry dialogue, demonstrating that we are shaping and not just participating in the future of travel. These platforms allowed us to showcase our long-term vision, secure new development opportunities, and build trust with investors, operators, and travel brands. As a result, perceptions shifted rapidly, and Ras Al Khaimah became recognized not only as a destination for rapid tourism growth but as one with a clear vision and capability to deliver a strong luxury destination proposition.

AC: Why is sustainability central to RAK’s premium travel strategy, and how do you balance environmental responsibility with luxury expectations?

IR: Today’s travellers want to enjoy a holiday experience knowing that their presence contributes positively to the destination. Our development philosophy prioritizes low-density, high-quality projects that protect our landscapes and preserve cultural integrity. Operationally, by working closely with our hotels and attractions through our certification programmes like Responsible RAK, created in partnership with EarthCheck, we ensure that sustainability metrics are monitored and sustainable practices are embedded into operations and guest experience. This allows us to deliver elevated experiences while preserving the very elements that make those experiences luxurious in the first place.

AC: During challenging global periods, RAK achieved record visitation. What leadership decisions proved most pivotal for maintaining growth and consumer confidence?

IR: Our resilience in challenging times was rooted in quick, decisive action. For example, as tourism recovered from the pandemic, we focused on creating compelling, nature-led offerings that resonated with travellers seeking open spaces. We were agile in implementing world-class safety protocols early and communicated transparently to reassure travellers and industry partners. We also supported our hospitality partners with relief measures so that the entire tourism ecosystem remained strong. And during recent periods of geopolitical tensions and airspace disruptions, we were able to effectively communicate and reassure partners and travellers of the stability of the UAE. We also pivoted strategically toward regional markets to maintain visitor levels. These decisions built confidence at moments when visitors were cautious, and they positioned Ras Al Khaimah as one of the safest destinations during uncertainty.

AC: From your experience, what are the key principles any destination or luxury brand must follow when attempting to elevate their positioning in the global market?

IR: In a globally competitive industry where so many great destinations are competing for the same traveller wallet, being distinctive and authentic is the only thing a destination or a brand should be to remain competitive. The most successful destinations and luxury brands have this in common. They’re anchored in authenticity, building their value proposition around what is inherently unique. They pursue quality over quantity, focusing on curated experiences that resonate with discerning travellers. And they invest in strong partnerships that elevate their credibility and amplify their reach. When these principles come together, the result is a destination that earns lasting relevance in the global luxury landscape.

Thank you, Iyad! With its curated hotel pipeline, transformative infrastructure plans, and dedication to preserving natural and cultural heritage, Ras Al Khaimah is not only shaping its own future but offering a blueprint for destinations worldwide. The journey ahead is ambitious, but as this exclusive interview demonstrates, the foundations of a true luxury powerhouse are already firmly in place.

To learn more, visit https://raktda.com/

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In this exclusive feature, Chef Shawn Osbey, known internationally as The Traveling Chef, joins Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, for a conversation on the future of luxury hospitality. Chef Shawn has built a reputation for blending American foundations with global influences drawn from his journeys across continents. His work spans luxury events, media appearances, culinary strategy, and high-profile collaborations that highlight his creative range. With experience in both celebrated restaurant kitchens and large-scale premium dining, he brings a perspective shaped by real cultural engagement and a deep respect for ingredients and community. In this interview, he reflects on the role of culture, emotion, and authenticity in defining what luxury means today and what guests are seeking in modern culinary experiences.

Alexander Chetchikov: Chef Shawn, as “The Traveling Chef,” you’ve explored diverse cultures and cuisines around the world. In your view, how is cultural immersion becoming a new benchmark for luxury hospitality?

Chef Shawn Osbey: I think people are starting to want more than just a nice room or a good meal — they want to feel connected to the place they’re in. When you let guests experience the culture, the people, the stories behind the food, that’s when it becomes real luxury. It’s about creating moments they can’t get anywhere else.

AC: Luxury consumers today expect more than exceptional food; they seek meaningful experiences. How do you transform culinary moments into emotional, memorable journeys?

SO: I focus on how I want people to feel first. A great dish is technical, sure, but the emotion is what stays with you. I try to create little moments — a flavor that reminds you of home, a dish that surprises you, a story behind an ingredient. When you tap into that, the experience goes way beyond the plate.

AC: Storytelling plays a powerful role in gastronomy. How do you weave cultural heritage and narrative into your dishes?

SO: For me, food is personal. I pull from my upbringing, from the big family dinners I grew up on, and I mix that with things I’ve learned traveling. I love blending Southern roots with techniques or flavors I pick up abroad. That’s how I tell a story — by putting pieces of my journey right on the plate.

AC: You work across travel, food, and cultural landscapes. What lessons can luxury brands learn from the culinary world about creating authenticity and connection?

SO: Keep it real. People can feel when something is genuine. In the kitchen, authenticity comes from respecting your ingredients and the cultures you’re inspired by. Luxury brands can take the same approach — lead with intention, pay attention to the details, and make people feel like the experience was created just for them.

AC: What role do sustainability, local ingredients, and ethical sourcing play in shaping a truly modern luxury experience?

SO: A huge role. People care about where their food comes from now. They want to know it’s fresh, local, and responsibly sourced. To me, that’s modern luxury — knowing the story behind your ingredients and doing right by the people and communities you’re sourcing from. It adds depth to the experience.

AC: What is the most memorable cultural or culinary experience that has influenced your approach to luxury hospitality?

SO: South Africa, without question. The food, the energy, the way people welcome you — it all hit me in a different way. There’s so much pride and history in the cuisine. It reminded me that hospitality is really about heart. It’s about making people feel seen and cared for, no matter how fancy the setting is.

AC: Looking ahead, what opportunities excite you most as luxury hospitality continues to evolve?

SO: I’m excited about how creative things are becoming. People want immersive dining, destination experiences, collaborations… all the stuff that lets chefs tell bigger stories. It feels like the lines between travel, culture, and food are blending in a really fun way, and there’s so much room to push boundaries. I’m ready for all of it.

Thank you, Chef Shawn! Chef Shawn’s journey reflects a commitment to growth, creativity, and meaningful hospitality, and his influence will continue to inspire the industry as it evolves.

Follow his journey here: https://linktr.ee/ChefShawn

Want to read more exclusives? Check out our news and insights: https://worldluxurychamber.com/insights-news/ & sign up for our newsletter here: https://worldluxurychamber.com/wlcc-community/

For nearly three decades, Kassie Smith, Founder & CEO of KS Global, has shaped some of the world’s most iconic luxury destinations – spanning resorts, branded residences, mixed-use master plans, and transformational hospitality developments across global markets. Renowned for her ability to fuse vision, strategy, and cultural nuance, Kassie brings a rare combination of creative leadership and investment intelligence to every project she touches.

This year, she joined the WLCC Board, strengthening the Chamber’s global perspective across luxury development, capital investment, and destination strategy. In this exclusive interview, Kassie shares her insights on the future of luxury, the evolving behavior of capital, and the forces reshaping how affluent travelers live, invest, and explore the world.

Alexander Chetchikov: You’ve dedicated your career to shaping some of the world’s most iconic luxury destinations. When you look at the global luxury landscape today, what fundamental shifts will define the next generation of luxury real estate and hospitality?

Kassie Smith: The future of luxury hospitality will be defined by immersive collaboration – where iconic brands and high-end hotels converge to create deeply layered experiences. Strategic partnerships and luxury licensing are no longer enhancements; they’re becoming core drivers of identity and differentiation.

We’re seeing this evolution accelerate through crossover collaborations between fashion, automotive, and hospitality brands. What began years ago with Bulgari, Versace, and Baccarat has now matured into a powerful global movement, with the 2026 opening of the Louis Vuitton hotel on the Champs-Élysées standing as a landmark example. Affluent travelers increasingly seek experiences that feel both personally expressive and seamlessly integrated with the luxury lifestyles they already inhabit.

Looking ahead, several frontiers are reshaping development:
• Mixed-use luxury communities anchored by hotels and branded residences, where the name alone elevates real estate value.
• Wellness and medical tourism, now fully embedded into the luxury ecosystem with sophisticated, well-being-driven hospitality offerings.
• Private members’ clubs within hotel environments – an increasingly vital revenue stream that enhances exclusivity and long-term engagement.

Together, these forces are crafting a new era where luxury destinations are not merely visited, but lived, felt, and remembered.

AC: What principles guide you when crafting places that become lasting symbols of luxury culture?

KS: Every destination begins with understanding the market’s strongest benchmark, and then elevating it beyond what currently exists. I always ask: What will the affluent traveler desire here that no one else is offering? Luxury must deliver an experience so exclusive and so thoughtfully curated that it becomes unforgettable.

It’s never about cost; it’s about value creation, revenue success, and strategic distinction. I’m willing to innovate boldly, but only when the vision, the market, and the story align. Every project is a precise puzzle – where each element must work together to create something iconic.

AC: As a WLCC Board Member, where do you see the greatest opportunities for WLCC to shape the future of the luxury sector?

KS: WLCC is uniquely positioned to become the global orchestrator between investment, luxury hospitality, and destination development. The organization has built an impressive and polished platform, and the next chapter lies in expanding this foundation through the expertise of leaders across these sectors.

By curating knowledge, showcasing successful journeys, and facilitating high-impact introductions among capital partners, visionary brands, and industry innovators, WLCC can drive transformative partnerships. Capital is at the core of every thriving luxury destination, and WLCC can play a decisive role in connecting the right resources to the right opportunities – shaping the future of the entire luxury ecosystem.

AC: What signals or emerging trends are you watching that luxury leaders should pay attention to?

KS: I closely monitor both market performance and innovation, always distinguishing between long-term value and temporary trends. The luxury segment has demonstrated remarkable resilience through economic cycles, but one area that demands discernment is technology.

The ultra-luxury market will always remain fundamentally high-touch. Human expertise, emotional intelligence, and personalized service are irreplaceable. Technology has great power when it enhances these elements, but it becomes a liability when it attempts to replace them.

Having spent two decades developing in Las Vegas and witnessing multiple reinventions, I’m convinced of one thing: luxury endures when it remains rooted in the human experience.

AC: What shifts are you seeing in how capital behaves in the luxury asset space, and how should leaders adapt?

KS: Capital today behaves very differently than it did a decade ago. Traditional funding models are no longer sufficient; success depends on alternative capital strategies and building a diversified, resilient capital stack. Luxury development is inherently expensive, but it becomes achievable when supported by a compelling story, a proven team, and a robust revenue model.

Family offices and private investors now evaluate opportunities as much through vision and narrative as through traditional financials. Developers must enter conversations from a position of strength – with clarity, differentiation, and optionality. Those who master alternative funding mechanisms and present a unified, high-caliber team will remain competitive and far less vulnerable to shifting lending conditions.

AC: How do brand partnerships elevate the value of a project, and what makes a brand worthy of anchoring a luxury destination?

KS: Brand partnerships are no longer optional – they are essential to positioning a project within the competitive luxury landscape. When the right brand aligns with the right destination, it immediately enhances valuation, strengthens market relevance, and elevates everything from amenities to long-term revenue potential.

Whether it’s a spa, golf experience, fine dining, or a signature moment unique to the location, the brand must feel authentic, complementary, and strategically aligned. Not every luxury brand is the right fit. The most successful collaborations are those where both the property and the brand elevate one another, creating a shared identity that resonates with the global luxury traveler.

AC: What leadership principles guide you when managing large, multi-market luxury development teams?

KS: Leadership in luxury development is both visionary and deeply hands-on. Inspiration fuels my teams, but that inspiration must be anchored in market intelligence, engineered strategy, and cohesive planning. Before anything reaches a large group, my core team and I refine the vision together – listening, analyzing, and aligning.

I work alongside my teams, offering support, clarity, and accountability. A strong middle-management layer and a culture of mentorship are essential. When people feel emotionally invested from the beginning, they produce their best work. Ultimately, leadership is about creating the environment where excellence becomes inevitable.

AC: What long-term impact do you hope to create through your role on the WLCC Board?

KS: My goal is to contribute strategic insight, global connectivity, and long-term vision to WLCC’s mission. I hope to help shape new initiatives and expand existing ones – especially by forming sector-specific committees that unite leaders in capital, luxury development, and consumer brand innovation.

I also aim to support the growth of WLCC in the Western US through curated events that highlight exceptional talent, expand membership, and elevate ambassador engagement. Globally, I look forward to traveling, participating, and serving as an industry expert wherever WLCC seeks to make an impact.

Together, we can build a platform that not only reflects the future of luxury but actively shapes it.

Thank you, Kassie! Kassie’s perspective highlights a truth that increasingly defines the future of luxury: the industry’s most powerful innovations emerge at the intersection of vision, collaboration, and human-centered experience. Her leadership continues to shape global landscapes, and her contribution to the WLCC Board brings a vital strategic dimension to our mission.

To explore more of Kassie’s work and global portfolio, visit https://www.ksglobalco.com/

Want to read more exclusives? Check out our news and insights: https://worldluxurychamber.com/insights-news/ & sign up for our newsletter here: https://worldluxurychamber.com/wlcc-community/

In this exclusive interview, the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce presents a compelling conversation with Alberto Menegatti, newly appointed to the WLCC Board. The discussion, held by Alexander Chetchikov, President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, explores Alberto’s perspectives on leadership, innovation, and the evolving dynamics of the global luxury sector. As a seasoned executive known for bridging heritage-rich creativity with cutting-edge digital transformation, Alberto offers deep insight into the challenges and opportunities facing luxury brands today. His addition to the WLCC Board marks a significant moment for the organization as it continues to elevate cross-industry dialogue and foster the next generation of luxury leaders.

Alexander Chetchikov: Alberto, welcome to the WLCC Board! What excites you most about joining this community, and how do you envision contributing to its mission of connecting and supporting leaders across the luxury industry?

Alberto Menegatti: What excites me most is the opportunity to be part of a global community that brings together leaders from such a wide spectrum of the luxury world. The conversations that happen within WLCC — across fashion, hospitality, real estate, yachts, wellness, and art — are incredibly rich. Many of the challenges we face today are shared across sectors, and I believe there is immense value in creating spaces where ideas can cross-pollinate.

I hope to contribute by fostering even more knowledge exchange within the community, particularly by supporting initiatives that strengthen cross-industry dialogue and create meaningful exchanges between emerging brands and experienced leaders. My goal is to add perspective, share what I’ve learned from my experience in brand building and strategic marketing, and help expand WLCC’s role as a catalyst for collaboration and forward thinking in the luxury ecosystem and as a platform that nurtures talent and elevates the next generation of luxury entrepreneurs.

AC: You’ve led major initiatives at a globally renowned luxury fashion house that connect digital innovation with brand heritage. How do you balance maintaining a luxury brand’s tradition while delivering modern, data-driven experiences?

AM: Balancing heritage and innovation starts with recognizing that they are not opposing forces. A brand’s history gives depth and purpose to innovation — and thoughtful innovation, in turn, ensures that heritage continues to resonate.

For me, the balance comes from having a clear understanding of what the brand stands for: its codes, its values, and the emotions it wants to evoke. Heritage anchors the narrative, while data helps us fine-tune how that narrative comes to life for different audiences and moments.

Digital initiatives, because of their scale and visibility, offer a unique opportunity to show a broad audience what the brand truly represents. When technology is used as an enabler, it helps extend the brand universe in a way that feels modern, intuitive, and fully coherent with its identity. This is where innovation becomes meaningful: when it reinforces, rather than competes with, the brand’s essence.

AC: From your perspective, what distinguishes effective leadership within a creative organization at a leading global luxury fashion house, where artistry and business objectives must work hand in hand?

AM: Effective leadership in a creative environment is rooted in trust, clarity, and the ability to create the conditions for creativity to thrive while staying anchored in a strategic vision.

Great leaders are translators: they bridge creative intuition and business ambition, ensuring that teams feel both inspired and aligned. In practice, this means giving enough space for ideas to take shape, while providing a clear framework — whether it’s the brand’s long-term direction, client expectations, or commercial opportunities.

It also requires empathy. Creative and business teams both share the same goal: building cultural relevance and long-term value. Leaders who can connect these worlds, protect the creative process, and maintain strategic discipline are the ones who create the most meaningful outcomes.

AC: Omnichannel marketing is often discussed as the gold standard for luxury retail. In your view, what are the most critical elements brands overlook when creating a seamless customer journey?

AM: The first is consistency of service and emotion. Many brands focus on harmonizing systems and touchpoints, but the emotional dimension — how the brand makes you feel at every step — is often inconsistent across channels.

The second is the role of the client advisor. Technology is essential, but in luxury the human moment is irreplaceable. Brands sometimes underestimate how much data, digital tools, and content should be designed to empower people, not replace them.

Third, brands sometimes overlook the transitions: how a client moves from inspiration to research, from social media to store, from store to post-purchase. Seamlessness is not created within channels but between them.

Lastly, omnichannel requires a long-term cultural shift inside the organization. It’s not a project — it’s a mindset that touches product, operations, communication, and service. When brands treat omnichannel as a technology challenge rather than a holistic transformation, the experience inevitably feels fragmented.

AC: Mentorship seems to be a personal passion of yours. What do you believe young professionals entering the luxury sector need most from mentors today?

AM: They need clarity, perspective, and confidence.

More than ever, young professionals need mentors who can help them see the bigger picture. The luxury industry is complex, fast-evolving, and increasingly influenced by technology, shifting customer expectations, and global cultural dynamics. It’s easy for someone early in their career to get absorbed in day-to-day tasks without understanding how their work connects to the broader ecosystem of the brand.

A strong mentor can give them that perspective — helping them understand how creativity, strategy, operations, and customer experience all intersect.

I also believe they need exposure: to different functions, geographies, and ways of thinking. The most valuable mentorships show young talents how interconnected this industry is, and how careers grow through curiosity and cross-functional learning.

Finally, they need mentors who encourage them to nurture their own curiosity. The best growth happens when someone feels safe to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and explore new ways of thinking. In a sector like luxury — where heritage and innovation coexist — that curiosity is often what makes young talent truly stand out.

AC: Looking ahead, what do you foresee as the next major shift in how luxury brands will connect with their customers globally?

AM: The next major shift will come from the convergence of personalization, cultural relevance, and experience.

Clients increasingly expect brands not only to know them — but to understand them. This means connecting data, creativity, and human insight to build experiences that are tailored yet meaningful, global yet locally resonant.

We will also see a stronger emphasis on value-driven engagement: brands will need to articulate not only what they offer, but what they stand for. Clients are looking for authenticity, responsibility, and emotional depth, not just product excellence.

Finally, the relationship between brands and clients will become more circular. Instead of linear journeys, brands will build ecosystems that keep clients engaged beyond the moment of purchase.

In essence, the future of luxury will be built on relationships that are more personal, more human, and more continuous.

Thank you, Alberto! Alberto’s reflections reveal a leader driven by curiosity, empathy, and a genuine desire to elevate others. His approach to innovation and mentorship resonates strongly with the WLCC’s purpose, making his appointment to the Board especially meaningful. The WLCC community is delighted to welcome him and eager to see the impact of his vision and generosity of spirit in the months ahead.

Want to read more exclusives? Check out our news and insights: https://worldluxurychamber.com/insights-news/ & sign up for our newsletter here: https://worldluxurychamber.com/wlcc-community/

Luxury has never been defined by price alone. It’s shaped in the mind – by story, memory, and the subtle choreography of interactions that determine how a brand makes someone feel. JOURNEYS, the latest paper from luxury consultancy Matter Of Form, explores this truth through insights drawn from conversations with over 30 leaders across hospitality, travel, and tourism, including Accor, Mandarin Oriental, Jumeirah, Soneva, Design Hotels, and Regent Seven Seas.

What emerges is a clear message: modern luxury isn’t a funnel, it’s a sequence. A tapestry of moments that build belief over time. When brands optimise every touchpoint purely for speed or conversion, they flatten and fracture their own value. When they design with intention, connecting spirit and experience, emotion and function, they create the conditions for loyalty that lasts.

From early signals in the journey to the role of ritual, sensory design, innovation loops, and the evolving expectations of the contemporary traveller, JOURNEYS offers a grounded, practical framework for brands ready to move beyond familiar tropes and towards richer, more resonant connection.

The luxury audience has changed. Their expectations have changed. Their definition of value has changed. JOURNEYS was written to encourage brands to rise and meet that shift.

Download your copy now: https://journeys.matterofform.com/

From Maison to Metaverse: The New Realm of Luxury Experience 

A diamond necklace no longer needs to glimmer under glass to feel precious. Today, it might shimmer inside a virtual world, worn by an avatar, certified on the blockchain, and admired by millions who will never touch it. Luxury is changing, and fast. What was once defined by craftsmanship, rarity, and heritage is now being rewritten through code, pixels, and immersive experiences. The metaverse has become the new atelier of imagination, reshaping what it means to own, desire, and belong. 

The New Meaning of Exclusivity 

A limited-edition timepiece, a couture gown, or a private client experience. In the digital world, rarity is expressed through non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and limited-edition digital goods. These assets replicate the codes of luxury: authenticity, provenance, and limitation, but within a decentralized ecosystem. Collectors now invest in virtual handbags, jewelry, and even architectural spaces, all of which are authenticated through blockchain technology. Digital exclusivity has become the modern heir to the waiting list. 

Immersion as Experience 

Luxury has always been experiential, but the metaverse transforms that experience into something participatory. Virtual stores allow visitors to explore collections as avatars, attend digital fashion shows, or interact directly with brand ambassadors in 3D environments. The difference lies in presence: instead of watching luxury, consumers can now enter it. 

Brands are discovering that these activations do more than entertain; they extend the brand story into a new dimension, engaging a younger audience that values both creativity and digital ownership. 

Digital Artistry and Craft 

The rise of digital artisans, designers who shape garments and accessories in 3D, is challenging conventional ideas of craftsmanship. Virtual fashion is just as intricate as its physical counterpart; it demands technical skill, design intuition, and aesthetic precision. The “atelier” of the future may exist on a screen, yet the emotion it evokes remains rooted in artistry and imagination. This evolution reflects how luxury can preserve its essence even as its materials change. 

Sustainability and Access 

Virtual fashion offers an intriguing advantage: it decouples creativity from physical production. Digital collections reduce waste, minimize environmental impact, and allow for experimentation without the costs of materials or logistics. At the same time, it opens doors for new audiences who can participate in the luxury experience through avatars and virtual worlds, democratizing access without diminishing exclusivity. 

Example: Bulgari’s Step into the Metaverse 

As SDA Bocconi notes, LVMH’s Bulgari recently launched an exclusive virtual world on the South Korean social platform “Zepeto” after announcing its entry into the metaverse at VivaTech 2022. The initiative exemplifies how luxury houses are exploring virtual assets, from NFTs and collectibles to immersive augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) experiences. These spaces, which can exist on platforms like Roblox, Decentraland, or Meta’s Horizon Worlds, allow brands to create meaningful digital encounters while maintaining their aura of rarity and sophistication. 

The Road Ahead 

The luxury industry is moving toward a hybrid era, one that merges tangible heritage with digital innovation. The maisons that endure will be those that understand how to translate emotion, exclusivity, and storytelling into every layer of their digital presence. The metaverse is not replacing craftsmanship; it is extending it into new dimensions, where authenticity and aspiration still define the experience, just through a different kind of canvas. 

SOURCES: SDA BOCCONI 

To learn more about the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, visit: https://worldluxurychamber.com/