Marriott International has announced the launch of its very first property in the Northern Territory, Courtyard by Marriott Darwin, set to open its doors in early 2025. The property, currently operating as the Smith Hotel Darwin, will undergo an ambitious, multi-phase transformation, wrapping up in 2027. Once complete, it promises to deliver a lifestyle-driven experience right in the heart of Darwin’s CBD.
With 186 guest rooms, an outdoor pool, a rooftop gym, and a restaurant serving up modern Australian-Asian cuisine, the rebranded hotel is poised to cater to leisure and business travellers alike. Its central location puts guests within walking distance of Darwin’s most notable attractions, from the vibrant Mitchell Street dining scene to The Esplanade and the Darwin Entertainment Centre.
A new face for Darwin
Marriott’s expansion into Darwin reflects a carefully planned strategy to broaden the global hospitality giant’s footprint in Australia, Marriott International Vice President of Hotel Development for Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Richard Crawford said.
“Our expansion into Darwin has been a priority, as we seek to grow our footprint in Australia.”
Transformation on the horizon
The hotel’s phased renovation — set to kick off immediately — will touch every aspect of the guest experience. The Courtyard by Marriott Darwin aims to set a new benchmark for hospitality in the city, aligning itself with the needs of modern travellers. Flexible workspaces, plush bedding, and thoughtfully designed rooms are just a few of the features aimed at empowering guests to unwind and recharge.
Locally owned and operated DCOH, the Northern Territory property heavyweight behind the project, aims to ensure this transformation reflects Darwin’s unique spirit.
“The Darwin community deserves the very best, and that means bringing an outstanding global brand like Courtyard by Marriott to the Darwin marketplace to increase its offerings,” DCOH Managing Director Shane Dignan said.
“As a proud Northern Territory hotel owner, we’re eager to highlight what makes Darwin a unique and special destination as part of the hotel’s transformation”.
And there’s no shortage of customers waiting in the wings. Tristan Cooper, Marriott International’s Director of Hotel Development for Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific, pointed to the property’s broad appeal.
“We are very confident that our 219 million Marriott Bonvoy members across the world will be an important customer base for our latest offering,” he said.
“Darwin enjoys strong proven demand from leisure, corporate, government, defence, and special events markets.”
Courtyard by Marriott Darwin reinforces the city’s position as a hub for unique cultural experiences and a gateway to Australia’s Top End.
This year saw Marriott International make headlines in South Australia with the opening of the luxurious Adelaide Marriott Hotel, marking the first-ever Marriott to the state and the flagship brand’s 600th hotel in the APAC. The Darwin announcement further cements Marriott’s commitment to delivering high-quality hospitality experiences in key regional hubs.
The announcement of Courtyard by Marriott Darwin continues this momentum, demonstrating the brand’s long-term vision for growth in Australia. With properties now operating in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, and soon Darwin, the hotel group is steadily increasing its reach across the country. The company’s focus on thoughtful design, strategic locations, and leveraging the power of its Marriott Bonvoy loyalty program is proving successful in meeting the needs of both travellers and property partners.
Each new opening represents a deliberate move to address the growing demand for quality accommodation in regional capitals, combining Marriott’s global brand standards with local elements to enhance the guest experience. For Darwin, this marks a significant step forward, with the rebranded property set to offer a modern and centrally located lifestyle hotel catering to both leisure and business markets.
