Dubai's Le Royal Meridien completes major revamp

Andy Sambidge, February 9th, 2014

Dubai's Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort + Spa has completed major refurbishment works as part of Le Meridien hotels' $200 million revamp strategy in the Middle East.

The hotel said in a statement that the redesign of 108 rooms in Tower One of the property have now been finished and bookings are now being taken for them.

Refurbishment of public areas are also now underway with two new international branded F&B concepts, Geales - a seafood restaurant and lounge by Concept Venues - and Zengo, a concept by celebrity Chef Richard Sandoval, serving Pan-Oriental fare.

The revamp, costing AED55 million ($14.9 million) is part of a comprehensive renovation strategy worth more than $200 million announced last year for Le Meridien hotels in the Middle East and Africa.

Starwood Hotels and Resorts has committed to significant product upgrades in the region over the next three years.

The new rooms, restyled as the first new Le Meridien concept resort rooms, offer 24-hour butler service and "a fresh new perspective on décor, amenities and comfort", a statement said.

All the new rooms in Tower One feature the latest in technology including touch screen panels and extensive entertainment networks including two LED TVs, a DVD/CD player and iPod dock, as well as high-speed internet access. They also have their own private entrance, lobby, reception and guest services desk.

In total, 13 Le Méridien hotels and resorts are completing or currently undergoing renovations including Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort in Fujairah, Le Meridien Al Khobar in Saudi Arabia, Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi, Le Méridien Makkah and Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa in Dubai.

Pam Wilby, complex general manager for Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort + Spa and Grosvenor House Dubai, said: "The refurbishment plans reflect a new era of change and innovation.

"The hotel is one of the most established beach resorts and spas in Dubai and as part of our continued journey to provide enriching experiences to our loyal guests and dynamic mix of new visitors to the hotel, the newly refurbished property will include 108 redesigned rooms and suites, two new global branded F&B concepts and a refreshed approach to operations."