Wayam Mundo Imperial goes out of business as other hotels plan 2025 openings
While numerous new hotels are under construction across Mérida, one has decided to close up shop after fewer than five years.
Grupo Mundo Imperial announced it will end operations at the Wayam Mundo Imperial Urban Design hotel in Mérida, Yucatán, on Thursday. This marks the end of the group’s first venture outside Acapulco.
The property, which opened during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, transformed an art-deco mansion in the García Ginerés neighborhood into the lobby of a modern, 52-suite hotel. Construction began in January 2017 under the name “Wayam by Xixim,” though the Celestún-based eco-resort operator Xixim later withdrew from the project.
The hotel made history as Yucatán’s first LEED-certified property, meeting international standards for sustainable building practices. The development preserved the historic street’s mature trees and integrated the area’s architectural heritage into its design.
“This change marks the end of a cycle in which the group contributed to the development of tourism and hospitality in this paradise destination,” the company said in a statement. “During its time in Mérida, Grupo Mundo Imperial offered its guests a unique experience, standing out for its quality service, its emblematic architecture and its commitment to the well-being and satisfaction of visitors.”
When it opened, the hotel implemented the “Imperial Clean” program to address pandemic-related health concerns. The property featured upscale amenities including a rooftop bar and pool, and the upscale Cuna restaurant.
The hospitality group now plans to focus on expanding its presence in other markets, with its most significant upcoming project being The Pierre and Diamonds real estate development in Acapulco, Guerrero.
“This farewell marks the end of a significant stage, but also opens new doors to the future. Grupo Mundo Imperial will continue working with the same commitment and passion to offer exceptional experiences in its other destinations and projects,” the statement continued.
The announcement comes as Grupo Mundo Imperial demonstrates its recovery in Acapulco following Hurricane Otis. In February 2024, the company reopened two major properties there: the Palacio Mundo Imperial hotel and the Expo Mundo Imperial convention center. These reopenings were particularly significant as they represented some of the first major tourism infrastructure to return to operation after the Category 5 hurricane devastated the Pacific coast resort city in October 2023.
The hotel group has not announced any immediate plans for the Mérida property after its closure.
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