Kudzanai Gerede, Companies and Market Editor 
HYATT Regency Harare The Meikles (Hyatt Regency) formerly Meikles has opened the first batch of renovated guest rooms in its South Wing, advancing a refurbishment programme expected to cover all 153 rooms in the section by early next year.
The latest phase of the upgrade, which began welcoming guests this October, forms part of the hotel’s ongoing transformation since its rebranding under the Hyatt Regency franchise in May 2024, as it seeks to strengthen its hospitality offering for business and leisure travellers.
The remaining South Wing rooms and the Regency Club are expected to become available by the end of December 2026, with the full refurbishment of the wing scheduled for completion in early 2027.
Hotel general manager Stefan Bloemker said the latest improvements were intended to enhance the guest experience.
“The continued transformation reflects our commitment to evolving the guest experience while preserving the character that makes this hotel so special,” he said.
“With the first phase of renovated South Wing rooms now welcoming guests, we look forward to offering even more comfortable and seamless stays for our guests, whether they are visiting for business or leisure.”
The investment comes as the historic Harare property continues to modernise its facilities while retaining its identity as one of the capital’s longstanding hospitality establishments.
First opened in 1915, the hotel has undergone successive upgrades, with the initial phase focusing on public areas, including restaurants, the lobby, swimming pool, spa and fitness centre.
The second phase targeted meetings, conferences and events facilities, with six venues reopening after refurbishment in April 2025.
The current programme shifts the focus to accommodation, with the renovated rooms designed around contemporary interiors, modern comforts and functionality associated with the Hyatt Regency brand.
The completion of the accommodation upgrades will complement the hotel’s existing dining, wellness and conference facilities, positioning the property to serve corporate travellers, conference delegates and tourists visiting Zimbabwe’s capital.
The refurbishment also builds on the hotel’s integration into Hyatt’s international hospitality network, following its adoption of the Regency brand in 2024.
The Hyatt Regency brand operates in more than 245 locations across over 50 countries, giving the Harare property access to an established international hospitality platform.
However, the hotel’s announcement did not disclose the total cost of the renovation programme, the number of rooms included in the first phase or the expected financial returns from the upgrades.
The completion of the South Wing project in early 2027 will mark another milestone in the property’s phased modernisation, which has progressively covered public spaces, business facilities and now guest accommodation.
