Metropolitan Hotel Dubai: Building on its legacy

The Metropolitan Hotel Dubai, one of city’s much-loved hotels since the late 1970’s, has reopened in a new location on Sheikh Zayed Road, after a three-and-a-half-year hiatus. Mohammad Al Habtoor, Vice-Chairman and CEO of the Al Habtoor Group welcomed members of the media on Monday 6 March 2017. Guests got the opportunity to experience many aspects of the Metropolitan Hotel Dubai, including sampling the delights of two old-favourite outlets that have made a revival in the new hotel – The Red Lion, one of the oldest English pubs in Dubai, and Don Corleone Italian restaurant, another popular eatery. The Metropolitan Dubai is also home to other culinary outlets including Al Safa, an all-day dining restaurant serving international cuisine, Al Sheif Lounge, serving Arabic cuisine, and the Tropicana pool bar. The chairman has kept and fulfilled his promise of rebuilding the Metropolitan Hotel to continue its legacy,” said Mohammad Al Habtoor. “The old Metropolitan had a very strong, loyal customer base. Since we opened we have welcomed back both old and new customers. We look forward to continuing the legacy of this hotel, which was one of the first hotels in Dubai.” The original Metropolitan Hotel, which was built in 1979, was demolished in May 2013 to make way for Al Habtoor City, an urban resort incorporating three hotels and luxury residential towers on The Dubai Water Canal. Al Habtoor added, “We have come a long way since 1979. We are proud to bring back the Metropolitan Hotel Dubai. The success of the hotel has helped shape our growth in the hospitality sector. As a Group, we have grown in unison with the economy of the UAE. We have 14 hotels around the world; seven in Dubai and seven internationally.” The refined and vibrant 4-star property is situated in a new location in the heart of the city, near Exit 41 (Al Thanya Street). The elevated Metropolitan Hotel Dubai still exudes the “home away from home” feel which is impeccably present the minute you walk into the property, with many familiar faces greeting and welcoming guests and the media who were among the first few invited to experience what the new hotel offers. Sanjay Luthra, General Manager, Metropolitan Hotel, said, “The Metropolitan and some of its establishments are part of the history of Dubai. When we closed The Red Lion many of our customers were upset because it had played a big part in their lives. With the revival of the hotel it only seemed natural that the most-loved outlets made a comeback, with a modern twist.” The Red Lion has been re-built to look as similar as possible to the original premises, with the same layout and elements, offering the informal yet traditional pub atmosphere. The new pub features the original oak bar, which is now 33 years old. The hotel’s chic and modern look starting from the lobby with its high ceiling, tasteful chandeliers and glass windows cater to a diverse clientele, such as the millennials, value conscious business traveller, leisure tourists, visiting friends and family, local nationals and GCC residents. The Metropolitan Hotel Dubai features 320 contemporary rooms including 18 suites and state of the art leisure facilities including a well-equipped gym, a rooftop swimming pool and a beautifully appointed spa. The elegant rooms feature modern amenities that are ideal for guests seeking contemporary comfort in the heart of the city. Guests can choose from a selection of room types including Premium Rooms, Premium Plus for up to three people sharing, Family Rooms for up to four people, Junior Suites, Premium Suites, and Ambassador Suites. The Metropolitan Hotel Dubai is the perfect place to host events in one of the region’s busiest cities. The beautifully appointed Al Shindagah Ballroom can accommodate up to 500 guests. In addition, there are five meeting rooms suitable for hosting corporate meetings, product launches, cocktail parties and gala dinners. The hotel has developed its own rewards program, called Loyal, which guests can use throughout the Group’s hotels and outlets.