Hotel De Leopol, which was under renovation for the last six months, may be taken over by an international brand. They are adding more rooms, a swimming pool and a meeting hall that accommodates up to 1,000 people.
It was opened ten years ago with 54 rooms and lies on 7,000sqm. Soon it will have another building which is eight stories high and have 68 more rooms.
When the hotel renovation is completed it will create jobs for 300 people. It will have three bars, two restaurants and a pastry shop.
Presidential suite rooms, an underground health center and new services are part of the renovation.
All rooms have suite bathrooms, mini-bar fridges, satellite TV, work stations and tea/coffee making facilities.
The hotel located on Jomo Kenyatta Road commonly known as Bambis Supermarket is currently negotiating with European brand hotels to manage the hotel.
“The hotel is not only closed for renovation but also to come up with new energy that fits the international standard and gives more satisfaction to our customers,’’ a source said.
“The new property will become one of the upscale international brands to operate in the capital. This gives us a tremendous opportunity to give good service in Ethiopia. Addis Ababa by itself is a key commercial and tourism hub for the country, with a real and growing requirement for upscale hotels,” the source added.
Hotel De Leopol was founded by Damenaw Siman and his family a decade ago who are also planning to invest in manufacturing and agriculture.
The hotel’s goal is to reach at least a four star level.
Currently there are 140 star rated hotels in Addis Ababa including Sheraton, Hilton, Golden Tulip, Radisson Blu, and Marriot Executive Apartment.