Historic Stays: The Oldest Hotels in the Middle East

The Middle East is home to a rich history, and some of its oldest hotels have played a central role in shaping the region’s hospitality landscape. These hotels are living pieces of history, each with its own story to tell.

Here’s a closer look at some historic hotels that have stood the test of time and continue to offer unforgettable experiences to travelers today!

Mena House Hotel—Cairo, Egypt

Opened: 1886

Originally a royal lodge near the Pyramids of Giza, the site of the Mena House Hotel has a history stretching back to 1869 when it was expanded for the visit of Empress Eugénie of France during the opening of the Suez Canal. 

A road was even built to connect Cairo to the Pyramids to accommodate her visit. In 1885, the property was bought by the wealthy Locke-King couple, who transformed it into a luxury hotel, officially opening its doors in 1886 as “Mena Hotel.”

They preserved the Arabic ambiance, adding Mashrabia woodwork, blue tiles, mosaics, and medieval brass-embossed doors. Today, Mena House continues to welcome guests with its breathtaking views of the pyramids and its timeless elegance.

The Red Sea Palace—Jeddah, Saudi Arabia

Opened: 1959

Overlooking the historic Jeddah Corniche, The Red Sea Palace has been a landmark in the city for decades. Originally built to accommodate business travelers and visiting dignitaries, the hotel quickly became a symbol of Jeddah’s growing prominence as a commercial hub. 

While it has undergone renovations, it still retains elements of its mid-century charm. Plus, its prime location near the old town of Al-Balad makes it a gateway to the heritage and culture of Saudi Arabia’s coastal city.

The Palmyra Hotel—Baalbek, Lebanon

Opened: 1874

The Palmyra Hotel in Baalbek, Lebanon, is one of the country’s most historic accommodations. Established in 1874, it has remained operational through two world wars and a 15-year civil war, never closing its doors. Overlooking the Roman ruins of Heliopolis, it has hosted notable figures such as Jean Cocteau and Charles de Gaulle. 

Despite enduring wars and political upheavals, the hotel retains its old-world charm, with vintage furnishings and photographs that capture its storied past.

The Gulf Hotel—Manama, Bahrain

Opened: 1969

The Gulf Hotel in Manama is one of Bahrain’s most enduring luxury hotels. Opened in 1969, it was the first five-star hotel in the country and set the standard for hospitality in the region. Over the decades, it has expanded and modernized while preserving its legacy as a key destination for business and leisure travelers in Manama. 

With a blend of contemporary luxury and Bahraini hospitality, it continues to be a landmark in the country’s hotel industry.

The Baron Hotel—Aleppo, Syria

Opened: 1909

The Baron Hotel in Aleppo, Syria, is one of the most historic hotels in the region. Opened in 1909 by an Armenian family, it quickly became a hub for notable guests, including T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia), Agatha Christie, and King Faisal. 

The hotel’s grand architecture and prime location made it a favored stop for travelers exploring the Levant. Despite the challenges of war and economic difficulties, the Baron Hotel still stands tall as a symbol of Aleppo’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Where the Past Meets the Present

Each of these hotels tells a story of resilience, luxury, and cultural significance. From the grandeur of Cairo’s Mena House to the enduring elegance of Baalbek’s Palmyra Hotel, these landmarks continue to define hospitality in the region. For travelers seeking a stay steeped in history, these hotels offer an experience unlike any other!

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