Saudi Gazette THE Waldorf Astoria standards of excellence are no better upheld than in the luxurious magnificence of the Qasr Al Sharq, which translates as Palace of the East, and which has the distinction of being the first Waldorf Astoria Hotel in the world to open since 1931 when the flagship Waldorf Astoria was established in New York. The hotel gives visitors their first indication of the opulence to come when they enter the lobby where the floor is made of the finest marble, the walls are adorned with beautiful artwork and the magnificent three tier chandelier sparkles with 600,000 Swarovski crystals. The premier choice of royalty, presidents, diplomats and other highly important guests, the Qasr Al Sharq has eight sumptuous royal suites, two luxurious Qasr suites and 40 luxurious guest rooms, each designed and decorated to surpass the expectations of the most discerning guests. On arrival, the guests' personal concierge who acts as their primary contact to guarantee every request is met, ranging from culinary preferences to organizing a special occasion, welcomes guests. Solely dedicated to ensuring guests enjoy a flawless experience, their personal concierge is at work on their behalf even before they arrive, taking care of special requirements ordered at the time of reservation. In addition, a personal butler service is available on request. The luxurious facilities of the Waldorf Astoria Jeddah – Qasr Al Sharq include a spacious cigar lounge and access to the men only Hilton Fitness Club at the adjacent Jeddah Hilton, including pools and sports facilities, while for ladies there is the famous ‘Waldorf Astoria Spa' including an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and whirlpool. For events there are seven multifunctional themed meeting rooms, which can be configured to accommodate 90 people in theater layout, and elegantly appointed, soundproofed boardrooms for 5 to 25 people. Facilities include state-of-the-art entertainment systems, the Waldorf Astoria's online e-events tool, the services of a team of expert event coordinators, and customized catering. In addition, sumptuous banqueting facilities are available. Waldorf Astoria Jeddah - Qasr Al Sharq guests and visitors have a choice of two restaurants: Aromi, where guests enjoy the finest authentic Italian cuisine with a Venetian twist while admiring the panoramic Red Sea vistas, and Mataam Al Sharq which offers premium modern Lebanese dishes in an exquisite setting of discreet luxury. A casual alternative is Al Shurfa Lounge offering a refreshing variety of teas and coffees served in a tranquil informal setting. Both the Aromi and Mataam Al Sharq are popular with Jeddah residents who come to enjoy gourmet dining and admire the magnificence of the Waldorf Astoria – Qasr Asharq, while Al Shurfa Lounge is a favourite meeting place for guests and visitors. In 2015 Waldorf Astoria Jeddah — Qasr Al Sharq hotel was honored with no less than four awards: Continent winner of two categories in the World Luxury Hotel Awards -- Best Luxury Diplomatic Hotel and Best Luxury Hotel Scenic Environment, while the Waldorf Astoria Spa won the Continent Award for the Best Luxury Fitness Spa. The World Luxury Hotel Awards are highly valued because they are based on votes cast by International tour operators, travel agents and hotel guests. Completing the quartet of prestigious awards in 2015, the hotel was awarded the coveted Golden Crown for the Best Luxury Hotel in Saudi Arabia at the Luxury Lifestyle Awards honoring the best in the Middle East. In 2014 the Waldorf Astoria Jeddah — Qasr Al Sharq won the World Luxury Hotel Award for the Best Luxury Hotel in Saudi Arabia, and in 2013 won the Golden Eye Award, a luxury hotel award that is presented to only the finest hotels in global luxury travel. Also in 2013 the hotel won the Global Luxury Award at the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards The only difficult part of any Waldorf Astoria stay is leaving, because it is the last thing guests want to do. But to ensure their stay has a happy ending their personal concierge will be there to make sure departure is smooth and effortless. From the complimentary packing service to a swift checkout, the Waldorf Astoria Jeddah – Qasr Al Sharq experience will leave guests wanting to plan their next visit before even leaving the hotel.
