Business Traveller (Middle East)
REFURBISHMENT UPDATES
SHANGRI-LA HOTEL DUBAI
The first new suites in Shangri-La Hotel Dubai have been released, the latest phase in the hotel’s extensive AED70 million upgrade following the completion of the lobby and pubic areas. We stayed in a corner suite on the 29th floor (#2908) which offers Burj Khalifa views from the discreet bathroom – set back along a small corridor and vanity area – and sweeping Jumeirah views from the bedroom and living room. Neutral tones featuring grey-silver carpeting and light woods are complemented by abstract art pieces, including a modern Islamic calligraphy piece hanging above the bed. Alongside plentiful sofa seating and four chairs around a table are a Nespresso machine and elaborate lamp over the desk, which is bright. shangri-la.com/dubai/shangrila/
LE MÉRIDIEN DUBAI HOTEL AND CONFERENCE CENTRE
Le Méridien Dubai Hotel and Conference Centre’s lobby renovations are underway and 200 rooms are being refurbished in phases ahead of an early 2018 targeted completion. General Manager Shaun Parsons said: “The first phase of the lobby is scheduled to be back with us July 15, and by the end of September, we should be sitting here with a new lobby.” He added rooms will be renovated to Royal Club standard. The ‘palm tree’ columns are receiving a lighter look and a “high-impact” 3D art piece will be installed in the lobby. Guests continue to have access to facilities through partitioned corridors. The Bar will be rebranded Latitude 25 and serve teas and coffees by day and stronger drinks at night. lemeridien-dubai.com
GRAND HYATT DUBAI
Grand Hyatt Dubai has completed the renovations of 226 rooms across nine floors and aims to complete 438 rooms by August. Spacious rooms feature lighter, more contemporary designs – evoking more of a living space than hotel room – with orange and beige colour schemes, complemented by white and French gold bathrooms and purple and beige suites.