THE Makkah Hilton & Towers is undergoing a $15 million renovation to improve its look and facilities.
The renovation process, to be completed by July 2007, is expected to enhance room revenues by 15 per cent in addition to an increase in the number of guests staying at the hotel. Last year 860,000 guests stayed in the hotel and the number is anticipated to mount up to 920,000 guests by the end of 2007.
“We are embracing modernity and technology in the truest sense, whilst also maintaining the traditions that lie at the heart of Hilton. Our intention is to reaffirm our property as the place to be when in Makkah,” said Shuja Zaidi, general manager.
Work has started with renovation of half of hotel’s guest rooms. The other half is planned to be renovated right after Haj season early next year. New accommodation has been introduced represented in junior suites and Premier floors. “This will definitely add variety and will ensure meeting our valuable guests’ needs and expectations,” added Zaidi.
Extensive renovation process has taken place in towers three and six, both accommodating 450 units. Ongoing developments will witness an additional bathroom in towers large rooms, the transformation of kitchens into contemporary inviting kitchenettes, and the incorporation of a centralised welcoming reception desk and lobby for all towers. All rooms have been equipped with high-speed internet access.
Guests will also be able to enjoy the worldwide-standard Hilton Breakfast.
A new addition to Makkah Hilton & Towers is Café Cino, a high-street coffee shop concept developed by Hilton, and the first of its kind in the Kingdom. The high quality coffee shop will serve a wide selection of baked delicacies and soft drinks. The hotel has commissioned European coffee-maker Piazza D’oro to supply the coffee.
The hotel is also on the verge of introducing a fully functional business centre. It will include high-speed internet access. Wi-Fi zones for wireless internet access is also available in lobby lounge and in main gathering areas throughout the property to ensure the needs of all pilgrims are met.