One of Dubai’s oldest hotels, the Metropolitan Hotel Dubai will be demolished starting mid-next year.
Owner Khalaf Al Habtoor, chairman of Al Habtoor told local radio station Dubai Eye the group could not expand the 200-room hotel which has stood for more than 33 years.
"Therefore we have no choice but to demolish it and rebuild a new project. The flexibility in that hotel is not there."
Options for what could take its place included another hotel or even an attraction.
"Something else ... we are studying is whether we do a museum, theatre, mall, arcade, because it's a big site. Still we haven't made a decision yet. Maybe the beginning of January we will announce it," he said.
According to Al Habtoor, the hotel had 90% occupancy. It is also is home to popular venues Rattle Snake and The Red Lion.
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Dec 4, 2011 , United Arab Emirates
Don't destroy this property. Dubai needs the places that people used to go to. It is still making money and there are other ways of making a profit besides demolishing it! It is nearly a landmark! Please don't tear it down!!