Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts has announced its expansion into Egypt and the African continent with the opening of Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis…
Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis has opened its elegant doors, bringing with it, its trademark welcoming atmosphere, unforgettable experiences and seamless, personalised service to the Egyptian capital. Perfectly located in the ancient city of Heliopolis, the hotel is close to Egypt’s main presidential palace, with the Khan El Khalili Bazaar and the highly anticipated Grand Egyptian Museum all easily accessible. Complete with beautiful botanical gardens, the property provides a tranquil oasis for guests to unwind away from the bustling streets of the city.
“Egypt welcomed 11.7 million tourists in 2022, up 46 per cent on the previous year and with Cairo often being the starting point for travellers’ 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.”
Image credit: Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts
Drawing on influences from the city’s history and culture, the hotel boasts ancient Egyptian references reinterpreted in a modern way to invoke a deep sense of place. Designed by the London-based Adrian Barboza Design, the interiors are inspired by the Art Deco era and also include references to Pharaonic arts, with a calming colour palette of rich greens and blues, warm wood tones and natural materials.
On arrival, guests enter a soaring glass-walled atrium lobby curved into the shape of the eye of the Pharaonic god, Ra. Taking centre 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
Image credit: Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts
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 beautifully appointed rooms and suites. From the hand
painted ceramics, plush velvet fabrics and marble mosaic tiles to the locally inspired artwork and intricately detailed rugs, each design element has been meticulously curated to reflect the cultural history of Egypt whilst providing a comfortable and luxurious haven for guests.
In line with the Waldorf Astoria legacy of food and beverage excellence, Waldorf Astoria Cairo Heliopolis presents a variety of exceptional dining options for guests to enjoy, whether it is for pre-dinner cocktails, a relaxed dinner or poolside refreshments. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Brasserie Ayda serves an eclectic ‘Mediterranean-without-Borders’ menu, with stylish interiors designed to resemble a Mediterranean garden, the open kitchen, vibrant bar and pretty terrace offer a buzzing energy from breakfast right through to dinner and into the night.
Channelling a bygone era, Bar Raa is named after the ancient Egyptian sun god and offers an intimate, elegant atmosphere. Eclectic jazz music and live performances set the tone, along with some of Cairo’s most creative cocktails and premium beverages, inviting guests to linger long into the night. Those looking to soak up the sun and lounge by the pool can enjoy lighter fare and refreshing treats at Le Jardin Pool Bar. With a secret garden ambience, guests choose from Mediterranean fusion dishes alongside refreshing cocktails.
Opening later this year, the Waldorf Astoria Spa will provide a luxuriously curated experience for guests looking to relax and enjoy wellness treatments. The interior design of the spa is inspired by nature and features four state-of-the-art treatment suites, each providing a full guest bathroom and private relaxation
zone, and one multipurpose treatment room. Guests can enjoy a comprehensive menu of treatments from face to body, including a traditional Hammam scrub experience.
Main image credit: Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts
