Méridien Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., announced on Tuesday the completion of Le Méridien-Al-Khobar’s extensive two-year $25-million renovation.



The renovation is part of a larger strategy by Le Méridien and its ownership-groups to invest more than $200 million in the renovations of 13 hotels and resorts in the Middle East and African region over the next three years.



To mark the occasion, Frits van Paasschen, President and CEO, Starwood Hotels & Resorts, and Mohamed Bin Jumah, Managing Director of the owning company, participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony at the hotel. Hosted by the hotel’s General Manager Han de Windt, the celebration was also attended by Roeland Vos, President, Starwood (Europe, Africa and Middle East), and Guido de Wilde, Senior Vice President and Regional Director, Starwood (Middle East). 



“The renovation of Le Méridien-Al Khobar marks a milestone for Le Méridien hotels in the Middle East as we continue to enhance and create a consistent portfolio,” said de Wilde. “Since its acquisition by Starwood in 2005, Le Méridien has transformed into a contemporary, design-led lifestyle brand and the revamped Le Méridien Al Khobar is a great reflection of this.”

 

Bin Jumah added: “Le Méridien-Al Khobar has undergone a complete transformation with contemporary design featured in all rooms and public spaces, the new club lounge and the addition of the Latitude 26 coffee bar. This renovation is a testament to our commitment to the growth of Al Khobar.”



The comprehensive renovation at Le Méridien-Al Khobar includes the integration of the Le Méridien Hub experience into existing public spaces, reinterpreting the traditional lobby into a social gathering place for curious and creative-minded travelers to converse, debate and exchange views. The hotel has partnered with Saudi artist, Abdul-Rahman All-Soliman, to offer contemporary, curated artwork at the Hub, setting the stage for stimulating dialogue at the hotel.



The hotel’s 333 rooms and suites feature a timeless chic design and are outfitted with the brand’s Le Méridien Bed and amenities such as illy coffee machines and a walk-in rain shower. The rooms also offer spectacular views of the Gulf and large working areas with a media hub.



Dining facilities include the new Latitude 26 coffee bar serving illy coffee and other refreshments; Café de Paris, an all-day restaurant; Fusion, an upmarket seafood and sushi restaurant; and the recently opened Leonardo, offering contemporary Italian cuisine.



Spanning 2,200  square meters, Le Méridien- Al Khobar’s extensive meeting space include two ballrooms and 12 meeting rooms. The revamped hotel features a new club lounge on the 12th floor which has already received positive feedback from guests for its design and spectacular views of the Gulf and Al Khobar corniche. — SG