The grand opening of The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi took place on 31 July 2016 and was hosted by the hotel’s owners, the UAE-based Dhabi Group and sponsored by Tera Bank.
The celebrations saw over 5,000 people gather on Rustaveli Avenue to witness a fireworks display and star-studded concert set against the backdrop of the hotel. An iconic addition to the skyline, The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi marks the debut of global hotel group Millennium and Copthorne in Georgia.
With a guest list comprising of glitterati from Georgian and international society, an official unveiling conducted by Georgian Prime Minister Giorgi Kvirikashvili and His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development signalled the start of the festivities. The celebrations continued on Rustaveli Avenue where the sky was lit up with a huge fireworks and laser display, followed by a live music concert featuring headline Georgian and international acts.
Introducing the hotel, Ali Hamad Lakhraim Alzaabi, President and CEO, Millennium and Copthorne, Middle East & Africa told Hotel News ME: “We are delighted to bring our luxury brand The Biltmore to Georgia and look forward to introducing its refined elegance and seamless service to our guests, providing them with exceptional experiences so they leave with long-lasting memories. The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi captures the soul of Georgia’s history and culture, where impeccable style and majestic architecture are combined with renowned Georgian charm.”
Also comenting, Sami Edward, CEO, Dhabi Group said: “Located in the most prestigious address in the city, The Biltmore Hotel Tbilisi delivers a new level of bespoke luxury hospitality, set within a remarkable space with unparalleled design inspired by Georgia’s rich history. We are very proud that our vision to develop a landmark property in Tbilisi has come to life and are confident that its timeless allure will resonate with both local residents and visitors to the city.”
Occupying a landmark historical building known as the former Institute of Marxism and Leninism (IMEL), with the addition of a striking glass skyscraper, the hotel’s distinctive design cleverly marries Georgian tradition and modernism. Guests are greeted by the restored grand lobby, which gives way to sweeping staircases, vaulted ceilings, polished marbled floors and crystal chandeliers. A glass walkway connects the past to the present, taking guests to the contemporary portion of the hotel, with sleek contemporary décor providing a juxtaposition. The hotel comprises of 214 rooms and suites, each equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and postcard views of the city’s historical downtown and bustling streets. Guests have the choice of eight room categories, including the exclusive Royal Suite, which offers the epitome of luxury.