World of Hyatt to Roll Out New Enhancements Including Digital Points Sharing and Early Award Access to Provide Members More Flexibility and Planning Confidence
CHICAGO (February 25, 2026) — World of Hyatt today announced a thoughtful update to the program, including its published award chart, reinforcing its commitment to transparency, predictability and long-term member value. Beginning in May, World of Hyatt will expand from three to five redemption levels within each of its existing eight categories. World of Hyatt will also separately introduce two new enhancements designed to make the program even more rewarding for members.
World of Hyatt points represent possibility – a long-planned family vacation, a spontaneous weekend getaway, or once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations that matter most to members. Members travel with confidence because they know exactly how far their points can take them. That confidence is rooted in our published award chart, a true industry differentiator that provides the clarity and transparency members value and trust. World of Hyatt remains firmly committed to preserving that structure and continuing to operate with fixed point thresholds rather than moving to dynamic pricing for award nights at Hyatt hotels and resorts.
Beginning in May, the award chart will expand to five redemption levels, Lowest, Low, Moderate, Upper and Top. This update enables more precise alignment at the hotel level within clearly defined category caps, and the added levels allow the program to manage peak demand more precisely by reducing the need for broad increases or major category shifts in the future. While the updated framework takes effect in May, World of Hyatt will implement the changes thoughtfully, with limited hotels moving a limited number of nights into the Upper and Top categories in 2026 and broader adoption in the years that follow. After five years without a meaningful structural update, this evolution reinforces long-term stability and protects the integrity of the program rather than fundamentally changing it. This adjustment allows the program to grow into the updated chart for years to come.
“Our members tell us they value transparency and the ability to plan with confidence,” said Laurie Blair, senior vice president, global marketing and loyalty, Hyatt. “We know change can be difficult, especially in a loyalty program our members care deeply about. This update reinforces our commitment to a published award chart with fixed point thresholds while ensuring World of Hyatt remains strong, sustainable and rewarding for years to come.”
New Enhancements Members Are Seeking
As World of Hyatt continues to listen closely to members, the program plans to introduce new enhancements designed to make it even more engaging. Later this year, members will be able to share points digitally, making it easier than ever to help a loved one begin their next adventure or turn a special occasion into a shared experience.
Additionally, Explorists, Globalists, Lifetime Globalists and World of Hyatt Credit Cardmembers will enjoy early access to award night availability and more opportunity to plan ahead and turn points into memorable future getaways. More details coming soon.
Advance Notice of Annual Category Changes
Providing advance notice allows members time to plan and book at current category levels before changes take effect (those reservations will be honored as booked). The expanded redemption levels are intended to reduce the need for larger category shifts over time by allowing for more precise seasonal alignment within each category.
World of Hyatt will continue its established annual hotel category review process, with yearly category changes announced in April. Separately, five hotels will shift up one category (Andaz Pattaya Jomtien Beach, Hyatt Centric Malta, Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort, Hyatt Place San Antonio-Northwest/Medical Center and Grand Hyatt Incheon), one hotel with shift up two categories (Grand Hyatt Grand Cayman Resort & Spa, opening in 2026) and one hotel will shift down one category (The Barnett, which is part of the JdV by Hyatt brand) effective starting today, to better reflect current market conditions.
More Places to Earn, Redeem and Explore
Since the award chart was last updated in 2021, World of Hyatt has expanded in meaningful ways. Members can now experience iconic lifestyle brands like The Standard and Bunkhouse Hotels, discover luxury all-inclusive stays through brands such as Impression by Secrets, Zoëtry Wellness and Spa Resorts, Dreams Resorts and Spa and more, or enjoy immersive outdoor escapes with Under Canvas. At the same time, Hyatt has grown in sought-after destinations around the world, making World of Hyatt points one of the most powerful in the industry, opening the door to richer and more personalized experiences.
World of Hyatt’s loyalty program is designed to unite Hyatt’s growing brand portfolio while delivering meaningful member experiences. A strong program must balance exceptional value with long-term sustainability. By maintaining a published award chart with fixed amounts and expanding flexibility within defined category caps, World of Hyatt reinforces its commitment to transparency, predictability and lasting member trust.
Members can learn more about the updated award chart here.