Latest news with #MarriottMenaHouse
Zawya
03-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Egypt: Marriott Mena House, new era of global visitors
Arab Finance: Egypt's tourism sector is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, with robust growth figures in early 2025 underscoring its appeal as a global destination. A pivotal moment in this revitalization is the highly anticipated grand opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) in Giza. This landmark institution, situated just a stone's throw from the ancient Pyramids, is expected to transform Giza into a premier cultural hub and significantly boost the overall hospitality landscape of Egypt. In this exclusive interview, Omar Tantawy, General Manager of Marriott Mena House, Cairo Hotel shares his insights on how this iconic hotel, with its rich heritage and unparalleled location, is preparing to embrace this exciting new era of tourism and continue to offer a unique blend of timeless elegance and contemporary luxury. 1-How does the Marriott Mena House's proximity to the GEM and the Pyramids influence its identity and guest experience? The Marriott Mena House Cairo Hotel has long been the destination of choice for those inspired to walk in the footsteps of kings, presidents, and pharaohs. Nestled within 40 acres of lush gardens and offering breathtaking views of the Pyramids, the Royal Lodge has captivated travelers for over 150 years. Our 331 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, four distinctive restaurants and lounges, and versatile indoor and outdoor event spaces embody a remarkable fusion of ancient heritage and 21st-century innovation. Our identity is deeply rooted in the legacy of the historic Mena House Hotel, complemented by the refined standards of Marriott International. This unique blend offers guests a one-of-a-kind experience where timeless elegance meets contemporary luxury. The upcoming opening of the GEM will further elevate this experience, reinforcing Egypt's cultural significance on the world stage and enriching the journeys of our international guests. 2-What steps are being taken to balance the hotel's rich historical legacy with modern hospitality standards? At the Marriott Mena House, we have taken great care to preserve the soul of this historic landmark while embracing the conveniences of modern hospitality. We have maintained key architectural elements that reflect our storied past, ensuring our guests feel the essence of history once they arrive. Our rich legacy is interwoven throughout our guest experience and storytelling, from tales of iconic guests to significant historical events. Yet, we also embrace technology that streamlines the guest journey, including seamless digital check-in and booking platforms. Our rooms feature modern comforts such as marble bathrooms, private balconies, and a range of upscale amenities, catering to the expectations of today's traveler while retaining our classic charm. This balance between old and new allows us to offer an experience that is unique and truly unforgettable. 3-With the GEM set to open as the world's largest archaeological museum and expected to attract over 5 million visitors annually, what are your views on how this landmark will transform tourism in Egypt, specifically Giza? The opening of the GEM is a milestone for Egypt and the Greater Cairo. As the world's largest archaeological museum, it will redefine cultural tourism by offering a deeply immersive experience for travelers passionate about history, art, and archaeology. The increased visitation will benefit the entire hospitality industry, especially properties like ours that are ideally located. We expect a surge in demand for high-quality accommodations, as well as an uplift in local restaurants, tour operators, and cultural sites. This cultural renaissance will be supported by infrastructure enhancements, improved transportation, modernized public spaces, and expanded services, elevating the visitor experience. Additionally, the GEM's innovative approach, using advanced technology and immersive exhibits, will bring ancient history to life in ways never seen before. Ultimately, the GEM will reinforce Giza as a premier travel destination, driving international interest and strengthening Egypt's global cultural presence. 4-How do you see these changes influencing local businesses, infrastructure, and the overall hospitality landscape? The impact of the GEM on local businesses and infrastructure will be transformative. We anticipate a major increase in demand for restaurants, cafés, retail shops, and transportation services. This will open up various opportunities for entrepreneurs and stimulate economic growth in the region. The hospitality landscape will also evolve. Hotels, including ours, will need to scale and innovate to accommodate the rising expectations of global visitors. We will see greater emphasis on service quality, sustainability, and guest personalization. These developments will create jobs across multiple sectors and drive long-term community development. The synergy between the GEM, the Pyramids, and neighboring attractions will form a cohesive tourism ecosystem that benefits visitors and locals alike. 5-What preparations is the hotel making for the expected surge in tourism with the museum's opening? We, at the Marriott Mena House, are actively preparing for the anticipated growth in tourism following the GEM's opening. Our guest rooms have been thoughtfully upgraded with luxurious bedding, marble bathrooms, and private balconies, many of which offer uninterrupted views of the Pyramids. Our culinary offerings celebrate both global tastes and authentic Egyptian flavors, creating a rich dining experience that reflects the diversity of our guests. Additionally, our expansive event facilities are primed to host conferences, weddings, and celebrations of every scale. Staff development is a priority. We continuously invest in hospitality training and language development to ensure we can meet the needs of a truly international clientele. We have also expanded our concierge services, helping guests arrange exclusive direct access to the Pyramids, private guided tours, and cultural excursions, creating seamless and unforgettable experiences. 6-Have Marriott Mena House entered into any partnerships or initiated initiatives with local tourism authorities to enhance the visitor experience? At the Marriott Mena House, we believe deeply in collaboration as a driver for excellence. One of our most impactful initiatives is the Tahseen training program, a partnership with Helwan University's Tourism College and the Professional Development Foundation. Tahseen equips Egyptian youth with real-world hospitality skills, offering them hands-on experience within our hotel and financial and medical support during their training. In 2019, this program received the Ministry of Higher Education's approval in Egypt and earned bachelor's degree accreditation. The Marriott Mena House provided 7,561 mentoring hours to students from the Tahseen program since we started in July 2019 till May 2025. I am pleased to share that a selection of the trained students from the previous years will be hired as full-time associates to work at the hotel as of June 2025, which is a key success we are all proud of. This program is part of Marriott International's broader Serve 360 platform, which aims to make a sustainable and positive impact in the communities where we operate. Furthermore, we maintain close coordination with the GEM team to facilitate curated visits for our in-house guests and develop strategic programs to elevate their experiences. 7-What is your perspective on the current state and future of tourism in Egypt, especially in Giza? Tourism in Egypt is thriving. In the first quarter of 2025 alone, Egypt welcomed 3.9 million visitors, a remarkable 25% increase year over year. This speaks volumes about the world's renewed interest in Egypt's history, culture, and emerging tourism offerings. Greater Cairo plays a central role in this resurgence, with the imminent opening of the GEM reinforcing its importance. The government's ambitious National Tourism Development Strategy, which targets 30 million tourists by 2032, is supported by robust infrastructure investments, including new resorts, upgraded airports, and improved roads. We, at the Marriott Mena House, are evolving in step with these developments. We are enhancing our services, introducing new guest experiences, and aligning our operations with global standards, all while preserving our timeless legacy. Looking forward, Cairo is poised to become one of the world's premier cultural destinations, and we're proud to be a cornerstone of that transformation. 8-With new hotels and 1,500 more rooms added in the area, how does Marriott Mena House plan to maintain its competitive edge? We are confident that our unique combination of heritage, location, and service excellence gives us a significant edge. Our setting, which is just steps away from the Pyramids and the soon-to-open GEM, is unmatched. We capitalize on this by offering curated experiences that immerse guests in Egypt's extraordinary past. We also focus on personalization. From private dinners under the stars to bespoke concierge services, we go beyond the traditional hotel experience to create moments of lasting impact. With the influx of investment, the hotel's owning company, Legacy Company for Hotels and Tourism Projects, is keen to develop, restore, and renovate the hotel to set it apart and meet exceptional luxury hospitality standards. Innovation is central to our strategy. While we remain true to our historic roots, we continually invest in modern technologies, smart design, and sustainability practices. Our certifications and awards for eco-friendly operations speak to our commitment to responsible tourism. And above all, we never lose sight of what matters most, our people. Their passion and dedication ensure that every guest leaves with a story worth sharing. 9-What have been your biggest challenges and achievements as General Manager of such a historic property? Leading the Marriott Mena House has been a tremendous honor and an inspiring journey. One of the greatest challenges—and equally, one of the most rewarding opportunities—has been honoring the hotel's historical legacy while adapting to the fast-paced demands of modern luxury hospitality. Preserving the architectural integrity of this landmark, especially during restorations and renovations, required thoughtful planning and great attention to detail. Simultaneously, we had to ensure that our facilities offered the level of comfort and convenience expected by today's global travelers. Navigating the challenges of the pandemic was another defining period. Ensuring safety while maintaining a high standard of service demanded agility and deep collaboration across teams. I am incredibly proud of the resilience shown by our associates during that time. Achievements that stand out include being featured in Time Magazine's World's 100 Greatest Places and being recognized by Travel & Leisure MENA's Top 10. Our sustainability certifications, acclaimed guest experiences, and strategic partnerships, especially Tahseen, are testaments to our leadership in the industry. Above all, I am proud of the unwavering commitment of our team to excellence. Their dedication has helped us become more than a hotel, we are a destination. 10-How do you envision the hotel's role in Egypt's tourism landscape in the next five years? We envision ourselves continuing to play a leading role in shaping Egypt's tourism future. Our proximity to the Pyramids and the GEM puts us at the heart of what will soon become one of the most visited cultural corridors in the world. In the next five years, we plan to deepen our commitment to sustainable tourism. We will continue to innovate in energy efficiency, waste management, and community engagement, positioning ourselves as a model for responsible hospitality in the region. We also aim to expand our strategic partnerships with local authorities and cultural institutions, helping our guests discover the richness of Egyptian heritage through curated, immersive experiences. Modernizing our infrastructure while preserving the elegance of our historic property will remain a focus. At the same time, we will strengthen our commitment to personalized service and continue investing in talent development. Our mission is to ensure that every traveler who visits Cairo sees us not just as a hotel, but as an integral part of their journey, a place where luxury, history, and culture come together in perfect harmony. © 2020-2023 Arab Finance For Information Technology. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
CairoScene
09-05-2025
- Business
- CairoScene
MENA House's ‘Moghul Room' Just Got a New Chef
Chef Manoj Nautiyal is taking that restaurant's legacy and dialling it up. May 09, 2025 Moghul Room at Marriott Mena House knows how to set a scene: parquet floors, gilded chairs, and a straight shot of the Pyramids from your paneer. It's a Cairo classic, long celebrated for its legacy of authentic Indian cuisine - the kind steeped in tandoor smoke, tempered spices, and time-tested gravies that don't pander to the faint of palate. And now, Chef Manoj Nautiyal is taking that legacy and dialling it up. He's worked in kitchens across Delhi, Dubai, Nairobi, and Cairo. He's led brigades. He's served dignitaries. But more importantly, he's got an internal spice compass that doesn't miss. What he brings is refinement, not reinvention - a deeper precision to flavours that have always been at Moghul Room's core. The tandoor turns out char with real consequence. The gravies land with purpose - sour, heat, funk, fat. A new Lucknow-style lamb is simmered until it collapses; fish steeped in tamarind and coconut arrives glossy and bright. Even the dal - silky, earthy, impossible to stop eating - feels like it's had its technique tightened, not tampered with. In 2021, Nautiyal was formally recognized by the Egyptian Chefs Association - a tidy line for the CV. But the more convincing proof might be in the growing number of locals booking a second dinner.
CairoScene
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Chef Manoj Nautiyal Is Flipping the Script at Mena House's Moghul Room
He's led brigades. He's served dignitaries. But more importantly, he's got an internal spice compass that doesn't miss. May 09, 2025 The Moghul Room at Marriott Mena House knows how to set a scene: parquet floors, gilded chairs, and a straight shot of the Pyramids from your paneer. It's a Cairo classic, beloved more for its legacy than its seasoning - until now. Because Chef Manoj Nautiyal has entered the chat. He's worked in kitchens across Delhi, Dubai, Nairobi, and Cairo. He's led brigades. He's served dignitaries. But more importantly, he's got an internal spice compass that doesn't miss. Just a deep respect for what happens when ingredients are pushed to their best behavior. His arrival is recalibration. The tandoor is now turning out char with real consequence. The gravies land with purpose - sour, heat, funk, fat. A new Lucknow-style lamb is simmered until it collapses; fish steeped in tamarind and coconut arrives glossy and bright. Even the dal - silky, earthy, impossible to stop eating - feels like it's had its ego stripped and its technique tightened. In 2021, Nautiyal was formally recognized by the Egyptian Chefs Association - a tidy line for the CV. But the more convincing proof might be in the growing number of locals booking a second dinner. The ones who long ago filed the Moghul Room under 'only if we have guests.' There's heat in the kitchen again, and not just from the charcoal.
News.com.au
30-04-2025
- News.com.au
Sad reality behind Egypt's Giza Pyramids
Egypt's tourism sector is booming but just like in some parts of Europe and Asia – it's starting to feel the pinch of overcrowding. In 2024 alone, it welcomed nearly 17.5 million tourists and with the ambitious goal of reaching 30 million by 2030, the country has decided to act. While the economy is thriving, the influx of visitors has led to overcrowding, especially at popular sites like the Giza Plateau, with tour guides, street vendors, aggressive resellers and tourist vehicles tarnishing the experiences of many. Some tourists have taken to social media to express their concerns and share their experiences of the Giza Plateau – home to several pyramids and the Great Sphinx. 'When you come to see the pyramids, avoid all these scammers,' South Africa travel influencer Kurt Caz said in a clip. 'Alright, we made it to the other side and these guys are still following me. 'I told you I am looking, I told you I will come back later … see when it doesn't go their way they start getting a little cheeky.' His clip from 2023 has been liked almost 1 million times with tens of thousands of people still weighing in on the issue. 'Ppl are now filming more 'avoid the scammers' than they are pyramids,' one person wrote. 'Every tourist destination in the world has the same thing,' said another. Others complained the pyramids are beautiful, but the scammers ruin the experience. As such, Egypt is taking steps to clean up the UNESCO World Heritage Site that has been plagued by poor management and unregulated and aggressive vendors for years. Last week, a new access point to the complex on the Fayoum Highway was tested, replacing the historic entrance near Marriott Mena House, which frequently suffers from traffic jams and congestion. The project, led by Orascom Pyramids Entertainment Services Company, is reportedly set to cost $A80 million, according to Euro News. However, it has got off to a rocky start with the trial run copping pushback from horse and camel tour operators, who blocked vehicles from entering in a protest against their relocation to new designated parking areas. They say these are too far from the entrance and will damage business, Euro News reported. The vendors have long been accused of harassment and alleged extortion by visitors. Businessman Naguib Sawiris, the founder of Orascom Telecom Holding and Orascom Investment Holding, wrote on X that sellers who refuse to move to the new zone area would be banned. 'The wellbeing of the public and preservation of this treasure is far more important than catering to the interests of 2,000 individuals who have caused harm to the country for years,' he posted. Meanwhile, reports of animal cruelty such as the alleged treatment of animals used for tourist rides from horses, to donkeys and camels has also drawn harsh criticism. Organisations like PETA have been denouncing it for years. 'As detailed in a previous PETA Asia investigation, many camels purchased at the Birqash market end up at Egypt's top historical sites, such as the Great Pyramid of Giza and Saqqara's ancient burial site, to provide tourists with rides,' PETA said in a statement in 2023. 'And there's no retirement for these animals after a lifetime of servitude. Once they're too worn out to continue giving rides, they're returned to the market to be sent to slaughter.' PETA Asia Vice President Jason Baker also claimed the organisation has as documented the routine punching, kicking, whipping, and starving of horses and camels at the pyramids. 'Animals are literally ridden to death and then dumped like rubbish outside the gate. The Pyramids of Giza should symbolise Egypt's beauty and history – not unchecked animal abuse. The Egyptian government must act to remove these suffering animals from Giza.' However, the government has acted, launching a specific animal welfare program in the main tourist spots, including Giza that will see eco-friendly transport. @funnyoldeworld Big changes to accessing pyramids causing massive issues! #egypt #giza #overcrowding #sacredsites ♬ original sound - JahannahJames It is now betting on electric buses inside the necropolis to offer a more comfortable and sustainable alternative to animal rides – while also ensuring it does not pollute or cause discomfort to locals. While the transition aims to improve the sustainability of the complex, according to Euro News, some visitors have complained on social media about the availability of the vehicles, saying they've been forced to wait or walk in the heat. In a statement responding to the backlash, Orascom, the construction company leading the project, said 45 electric buses had been made available on the site and are scheduled to run every five minutes. The revamp will also see several tombs restored, the introduction of online ticketing and a new visitor centre. According to Statistica, travel and tourism added around $US31 billion – $A48b – to Egypt's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in 2023. Compared to 2020, this was an increase from $US17.2 billion – $A27b.
The Sun
25-04-2025
- The Sun
One of the world's most popular tourist attractions reveals plans for huge £38million revamp
One of the seven wonders of the world has revealed plans for a £38million overhaul. The Egyptian government has unveiled plans to clean up the Pyramids of Giza, with improved management and regulations. 5 5 In total, the project is expected to cost £38million. A new access point has been established, replacing the historic entrance near Marriott Mena House, which often experiences traffic jams and congestion. New measures will also stop private cars and tour buses from entering the plateau. Instead, visitors and guides will be provided with eco-friendly electric vehicles to get around the site. The revamp aims to improve overall sustainability of the complex, but some visitors have complained on social media that they have been forced to wait or walk in the heat. However, 45 electric buses have now been made available at the site and scheduled to run every five minutes. The revamp will also see several tombs restored, online ticketing introduced and a new visitor centre. The project, which is being led by Orascom Pyramids Entertainment Services Company, follows a number of complaints about the destination being prone to overcrowding and scams. For a number of years, the UNESCO World Heritage Site has experienced poor management, aggressive vendors and large crowds of tourists. There have also been some setbacks to the works. Some of the horse and camel tour operators block vehicles from entering in protests against their relocation to designated parking areas. The vendors claim that they will now be too far away from the entrance and that this will damage business. Egyptian authorities hope that works planned for the Pyramids will help to limit the overcrowding and persistent vendors. A mysterious city was also recently found under the Pyramids, according to scientists. Researches from Italy and Scotland discovered "a vast underground city" that is 10 times larger than the Pyramids themselves and span over 6,500 feet. The team used radar to established a detailed image of what lies below the Pyramids and labelled the study as "groundbreaking". Last year, The Sun's Alex Doyle also went on a bucket list cruise in Egypt and got to visit stunning historic attractions. 5 5
