Waldorf Astoria brand arrives in Africa

i By August 22, 2023 No Comments

Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts today announced its expansion into Egypt and the African continent with the opening of Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis.

Located in the ancient city of Heliopolis, Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis is close to Egypt’s main presidential palace, with must-see spots like Downtown Cairo, Khan El Khalili Bazaar and the highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum all easily accessible from the hotel. The New Administrative Capital, a new urban community home to government, residential, business and cultural districts, is also nearby.

The five-star hotel features 252 luxury rooms and suites, four restaurants and bars, a Waldorf Astoria Spa, and a ballroom that can accommodate up to 2,000 guests..

“Egypt welcomed 11.7 million tourists in 2022, up 46 percent on the previous year, and with Cairo often being the starting point for travelers’ journey to discover Egypt, we are delighted to bring the world-renowned luxury of Waldorf Astoria to this sought-after destination,” said Simon Vincent, executive vice-president and president, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Hilton. “Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis will appeal to discerning guests seeking world-class luxury, offering enriching experiences and unparalleled service within easy reach of Cairo’s vibrant cultural and heritage sites.”

Designed by the London-based Adrian Barboza Design, the property’s interiors are inspired by the Art Deco era and include references to Pharaonic arts, and a calming color palette of greens and blues, warm wood tones and natural materials.

Upon arrival, guests enter a soaring glass-walled atrium lobby curved into the shape of the eye of the Pharaonic god, Ra. Taking center stage is the iconic Waldorf Astoria clock – a signature feature of Waldorf Astoria hotels across the globe – which displays the time within two rings of flowing water, inspired by the River Nile and Pharaonic architecture.

The sense of calmness and serenity continues in the guest bedrooms. Believed to provide strength and power, the white and blue lotus are often found within ancient Egyptian decorations and have been subtly incorporated into the design and artwork of the rooms and suites. Design details include hand-painted ceramics, plush velvet fabrics, marble mosaic tiles, locally-inspired artwork and intricately detailed rugs.

Opening later this year, the Waldorf Astoria Spa will have four state-of-the-art treatment suites, each with a full guest bathroom and private relaxation zone, and one multipurpose treatment room. The spa also features Psammo Therapy treatment tables in two of the suites. Psammo, otherwise known as hot sand therapy, was a tradition of the ancient Egyptians.

Meeting and event spaces at Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis include six fully equipped meeting rooms and a ballroom that can accommodate up to 2,000 guests.

Waldorf Astoria is located on Orouba Street, Heliopolis, Cairo, just minutes away from Cairo International Airport.