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Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel Transforms South Florida’s Travel Landscape, Merging Luxury and Business for Unmatched Conventions and Leisure Experiences
Published on
January 2, 2026
South Florida’s dynamic tourism and hospitality scene has witnessed a groundbreaking addition with the opening of the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel. This highly anticipated property, which marks Omni Hotels & Resorts’ return to the region after more than 20 years, is expected to reshape the business and leisure travel landscape in Fort Lauderdale and beyond.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Intracoastal Waterway, the new Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel is strategically located near the Broward County Convention Center, offering direct connectivity for convention attendees and business travellers. This ambitious project is a vital element of South Florida’s ongoing transformation into a globally competitive business hub, one that balances both business demands and leisure tourism.
A Strategic Location for Business Events and Corporate Meetings
With its 801 guest rooms, including 82 luxury suites, and more than 120,000 square feet of meeting space, the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel is designed to cater to the growing demand for large‑scale business conferences and conventions in South Florida. The hotel’s convention facilities are among the largest in the region, with its Waterway Ballroom, spanning over 30,000 square feet, setting a new benchmark for the region’s hospitality sector.
This extensive meeting and event space offers a remarkable range of 41 meeting rooms, equipped with cutting‑edge technology and adaptable spaces for a variety of business events, from small corporate meetings to large international conventions. The property’s integration with the Broward County Convention Center enhances its appeal, making it the go-to venue for both corporate conferences and high‑profile trade shows.
For business travellers, the hotel provides a seamless experience, blending luxury accommodations with convenient access to the Broward County Convention Center, one of the region’s largest event venues. This proximity to the convention center, along with direct access to major highways and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, makes the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel an ideal destination for those attending conferences, meetings, and trade shows in South Florida.
Luxury Amenities and Leisure Offerings at Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel
While the hotel caters to the corporate crowd, it also provides a lavish experience for leisure visitors. Featuring a diverse range of luxury amenities, the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel positions itself as more than just a business venue. With seven distinctive dining venues, including Reef 76 Kitchen & Bar and the stunning Ibis Sky Lounge on the rooftop, the hotel offers a variety of culinary experiences that combine South Florida’s freshest flavours with sophisticated dining.
Guests can also indulge in the Mokara Spa, which is inspired by Florida’s natural springs, offering a tranquil retreat after a day of meetings or sightseeing. For fitness enthusiasts, the hotel provides a fully equipped fitness centre, while those seeking relaxation can enjoy the rooftop pool deck, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
In addition to these leisure amenities, the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel is set to open an Italian chophouse in 2026, adding to its already extensive offerings of dining options. With its stunning views of the waterway and the city’s skyline, this venue will further elevate the hotel’s appeal for guests seeking an unparalleled dining experience.
The Economic Impact of Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel
The opening of this landmark hotel is expected to have a significant economic impact on the region. Fort Lauderdale has long been a popular destination for leisure travellers, but the addition of this state-of-the-art convention hotel adds a new layer to the city’s hospitality offering, increasing its competitiveness as a destination for business travellers.
Local officials have underscored the economic benefits brought by the hotel. The Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel is expected to contribute over $450 million to the local economy, with the hotel and convention center complex generating thousands of jobs in hospitality, service, and related sectors. This partnership with the Broward County Convention Center forms a crucial part of the county’s ongoing efforts to position Fort Lauderdale as a leading hub for business tourism in the southeastern United States.
As part of the Broward County Convention Center District’s expansion, this new development will also support over 3,000 full‑ and part‑time jobs, providing a much‑needed economic boost to the area. The hotel’s opening directly ties into the broader efforts to revitalize and enhance South Florida’s tourism sector, especially in the competitive meetings and events market.
Design and Architecture: Reflecting South Florida’s Coastal Elegance
The Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel has been designed with a keen attention to the local environment and aesthetic. Architectural firm Nunzio Marc DeSantis Architects crafted a design that draws inspiration from the area’s coastal heritage, while the interior design by EoA Group embraces a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere that aligns with South Florida’s luxury lifestyle.
The hotel’s modern and sleek design blends with its surroundings, providing guests with an immersive experience that highlights the region’s natural beauty. Its prime location by the water and close proximity to the beach further enhances the hotel’s appeal, making it a destination not only for business but also for leisure and relaxation.
Public‑Private Collaboration Fuels the Project
The Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel was made possible through a public-private partnership, bringing together Omni Hotels & Resorts, Broward County, Visit Lauderdale, and Matthews Southwest. This collaboration allowed for the completion of the hotel and convention center development on schedule and within budget, positioning Fort Lauderdale as a new destination for large conventions and meetings.
Local government representatives have praised the hotel as a game-changer for the region, with Fort Lauderdale expected to see increased visitation from international business travellers. This is a major step forward for the city, which has seen an increasing demand for business‑oriented hotels but lacked the necessary infrastructure until now.
The Future of South Florida’s Tourism and Hospitality Industry
With the arrival of the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel, the region is well on its way to solidifying its position as a competitive player in the global tourism and business travel market. The new hotel will help attract large conventions, corporate events, and leisure tourism, all of which are expected to generate significant economic growth for Fort Lauderdale and the wider South Florida area.
The combination of luxury accommodations, state-of-the-art meeting facilities, and strategic location makes the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel a critical addition to South Florida’s tourism infrastructure. As the city continues to evolve and adapt to the growing demand for business tourism and luxury leisure experiences, the Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in the region’s future growth.
Conclusion: South Florida’s New Icon in Business and Leisure
The Omni Fort Lauderdale Hotel has redefined what it means to visit South Florida for both business and pleasure. With its luxury accommodations, extensive meeting spaces, and top‑tier amenities, the hotel is an integral part of the region’s journey toward becoming a leading destination for global conventions and business events. As this landmark property welcomes guests from around the world, it brings with it an exciting new chapter for Fort Lauderdale’s tourism and business sectors.
