Mandarin Oriental Jnan Rahma, Marrakech

Twenty minutes outside the Moroccan city of Marrakech, the Mandarin Oriental Jnan Rahma, Marrakech plans to open in summer 2011. The design recalls the great Umaid Bhawan palace in Jodhpur, India, with its 40-foot gilded ceilings, oversized pool, and attendant riad-style accommodations. The 161 palace rooms and suites and attendant 36-room riads share 131 acres of verdant gardens backed by views of the Palmerai district and Atlas Mountains.

Plans include eight bars and restaurants focused on Moroccan, pan-Asian, and European cuisine. The spa will feature signature Mandarin Oriental programs as well as treatments based on local traditions—including an extensive hammam. Groups will meet in a ballroom seating up to 380 guests, two Banquet Suites, and in the riads, which feature central courtyards ideal for gatherings of up to 200.