Iconic Meikles hotel in Harare renamed Hyatt Regency after five-year takeover – The Zimbabwe Mail

Harare – Zimbabwe’s famous Meikles Hotel, a historic landmark in the heart of Harare, has undergone a transformation and been rebranded as Hyatt Regency.

The name change comes five years after the hotel was acquired by Albwardy, a hotel company based in the United Arab Emirates, for $20 million.

Albwardy, renowned for her management of prestigious branded hotels such as Four Seasons and Hyatt, has made the decision to rebrand the five-star property, which has been an integral part of Harare’s hotel landscape since its inception in 1915 by the Meikle brothers –John, Thomas and Stewart.

The announcement of the name change has sparked mixed reactions among Zimbabweans, with many expressing nostalgia for the original name. On social media platform

Another X user, Mutape weChimanimani, condemned the name change as “sacrilege”, reflecting the sentimental attachment Zimbabweans have with the iconic hotel.

Despite the sentimentality associated with the old name, some are optimistic about the change. One X user expressed hope that the introduction of the Hyatt brand could restore the hotel’s former glory.

The hotel’s rebrand coincides with major renovations, including a new coat of paint and other renovations aimed at improving the guest experience.

Hyatt Regency Harare is set to welcome its first distinguished guests in August, coinciding with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit, which will attract regional leaders to the capital.

Additionally, the hotel is expected to play a pivotal role in hosting cricket teams from around the world during the ICC Cricket World Cup 2027, as Zimbabwe joins South Africa and Namibia as joint hosts of this prestigious event.

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