The World of Hyatt loyalty program, encompassing over 1,500 hotels and resorts across 83 countries, is set to implement significant changes to its award chart, which will generally lead to higher point costs for many stays. While the program will maintain its fixed award chart structure, the adjustments will expand the number of redemption levels and reclassify numerous properties, predominantly moving them into more expensive tiers.

Effective Wednesday, May 20, 2026, the current three-level system of Off-Peak, Standard, and Peak pricing will be replaced by five new categories: Lowest, Low, Moderate, Upper, and Top. Under this new structure, 112 hotels are slated to move to a higher Award Category, demanding more points per night. In contrast, only 24 properties will shift to a lower, more affordable category. For instance, top-tier Category 8 properties, previously priced at 45,000 points, will see a substantial 67% increase, rising to 75,000 points for a “Top” redemption. Even mid-tier categories will experience hikes; a “Moderate” Category 4 hotel, for example, will jump by approximately 33% in points cost. Travelers who have already booked award stays before the May 20, 2026, effective date will not be required to pay the difference if their property moves to a higher category, and will receive a points refund if it moves to a lower one.

Despite the impending increases, the World of Hyatt program continues to offer value, particularly through its consistent fixed-rate award chart, which allows members to plan redemption costs without daily fluctuations. The program also boasts strong transfer partnerships with Chase Ultimate Rewards® and Bilt Rewards. Additionally, new enhancements are on the horizon, including a simplified digital process for sharing points with friends and family, and exclusive early access to award night availability for Explorists, Globalists, Lifetime Globalists, and World of Hyatt cardmembers. These perks, along with Milestone Rewards for frequent guests, aim to sustain the program’s appeal even as point redemptions become more costly for many popular destinations.