Oaks Hotels & Resorts has announced the opening of Oaks Beirut, marking the brand’s debut in Lebanon.

 Located in the heart of Sodeco, a commercial area of Beirut, the 110-key hotel is just five minutes’ drive from the city’s vibrant central downtown area and 15 minutes from Beirut Rafic Hariri International Airport.

“We are delighted for Oaks Beirut to launch in Lebanon, a dynamic business and social hub,” commented Dillip Rajakarier, CEO Minor Hotels. “Given our ongoing growth and success in cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Beirut’s reputation as a cultural trendsetter means the city will undoubtedly be a fantastic host for Oaks. Together with our partners Allied Investment Group, we are excited to bring a touch of renowned Australian hospitality to Lebanon”.

Oaks Beirut offers modern accommodation with 70 guest rooms and 40 suites. Rooms are designed with a functional layout, natural light is provided by large windows complemented by elegant dark hardwood floors and many have balconies. Suites come with fully equipped, well-designed kitchenettes ideal for extended stays. Standard guest rooms feature 49-inch LCD flat screen televisions, rain showers, minibar and in-room safe. Bathrooms are stocked with ecological amenities reflecting the hotel’s sustainability focus.

Dining options range from authentic Lebanese specialties to à la carte international cuisine at Robusta Café, guests are able to enjoy their dining experience on the buzzing al fresco terrace.

The sophisticated hȳdan Lounge Bar offers an additional space to relax and enjoy gourmet snacks and beverages.

By summer 2020, the rooftop swimming pool will offer unobstructed views of the Beirut skyline, with the Rooftop Pool Lounge serving refreshments alongside. Located on the 10th floor, the gym at Oaks Beirut will provide state-of-the-art exercise equipment, sweeping city views and a sauna.

Three flexible meeting rooms combine to offer a range of services for both private and corporate events which cater up to 150 guests. The hotel is perfectly situated for corporate travellers just moments from the auditorium and conferencing facilities at Saint Joseph University. Sodeco is a busy commercial area dominated by modern business towers and nestled within one of the oldest districts of Beirut. Oaks Beirut is situated in a residential area characterised by narrow winding streets, charming coffee shops and heritage buildings. With vibrant dining and nightlife right on its doorstep, the hotel is also within walking distance of a number of luxury shopping malls, traditional souks and cultural institutions.

 At the National Museum of Beirut, Lebanon’s largest collection of archaeological artifacts is on display, while Mim Museum contains one of the most significant private collections of minerals in the world and is just steps away.

For leisurely strolls, the Corniche in Raouché district is hard to beat. Evoking the city’s erstwhile moniker “the Paris of the Middle East,” Lebanon’s grand seaside promenade is filled with flaneurs, each strolling the palm lined waterfront and taking in the views of the Mediterranean and the summits of Mount Lebanon to the east. Off the coast of Raouché, a natural landmark called the Pigeons’ Rock – two hulking rock formations – is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Golfers can tee off on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea at the Golf Club of Lebanon, which boasts one of the largest green areas in Beirut and holding the title of the oldest and largest golf club in the country.

The hotel has undergone a complete refurbishment since September 2017, before its relaunch as Oaks Beirut. In addition to Lebanon, the brand is present in five countries, including the UAE where there are properties in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.