45 YEARS OF RADISSON BLU KUWAIT

This October, Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait celebrates 45 years of memories, milestones, and moments that have helped shape the country’s modern hospitality landscape. Since opening its doors on October 11, 1980 as the Kuwait SAS Hotel, the property has stood as more than just a place to stay. It has become a landmark of Kuwaiti heritage, a hub for international travelers, and a gathering place for the local community.

The inauguration of Kuwait SAS Hotel on October 11, 1980, attended by His Royal Highness Prince Bertil of Sweden, marked the opening of the very first Radisson hotel outside of Scandinavia.

The story began with the vision of the late Abdul Husain Mohammed Rafie Marafie, whose foresight brought a world-class hotel brand to Kuwait at a pivotal time in its development. Under the leadership of General Manager Kurt Ritter, the hotel was born out of ambition and optimism, a reflection of Kuwait’s rising stature on the international stage. From the start, it sought to embody both sophistication and local character, blending global hospitality standards with authentic Kuwaiti traditions.

The opening team of Kuwait SAS Hotel in 1980, marking the beginning of what would become 45 years of hospitality.

In its earliest years, the hotel quickly distinguished itself, launching dining experiences that became part of Kuwait’s cultural fabric. In 1982, Al Boom Restaurant opened on board the Mohamedi II, a traditional dhow painstakingly restored and repurposed into a fine dining venue. The concept was groundbreaking, and to this day Al Boom remains one of Kuwait’s most iconic dining experiences, beloved for its atmosphere as much as its cuisine. Just a year later, Peacock Chinese Restaurant opened its doors, offering a taste of authentic Chinese cooking and cementing its reputation as a go-to dining destination for generations of guests.

An aerial view of the hotel’s seafront, November 1991.

By the mid-1980s, the hotel had grown beyond its role as a hospitality provider to become a central gathering space. The launch of the SAS City Lounge, the lively SAS Club, and the whimsical “Clock” Drive-in Restaurant offered locals and visitors alike new places to meet, dine, and celebrate. In 1987, the arrival of Al Ghazeer, another traditional dhow, added to the hotel’s expanding portfolio and reinforced its link to Kuwait’s seafaring past. These additions reflected the property’s role not only as a hotel but as a stage for cultural exchange and leisure.

An aerial view from the freshly renovated hotel, November 2012.

The Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in 1990 brought unimaginable challenges. Like much of the country, the hotel sustained significant damage, and its operations came to a standstill. Yet the spirit of resilience that defines Radisson Blu was already in place. By November 1992, just two years after the conflict, the hotel reopened its doors. The reopening was more than a return to business; it was a symbol of renewal for Kuwait itself, and a statement of determination that the hotel and its people would endure.

This resilience has continued to define Radisson Blu Kuwait across the decades. Time and again, the property has adapted to the changing needs of its guests while honoring its roots. From reconstruction and refurbishment to the careful expansion of its offerings, the hotel’s story is one of evolution guided by a strong sense of place.

The Al Ghazeer sailing, a dhow symbolizing the Marafie family’s proud maritime legacy — and famously featured on Kuwait’s 20 dinar banknote.

In 2000, the hotel unveiled one of its most ambitious and enduring achievements: Al Hashemi II, the world’s largest wooden dhow, certified by the Guinness Book of World Records. Built alongside the Marine Museum, it is a spectacular reminder of Kuwait’s proud maritime history. Far more than an architectural feat, Al Hashemi II has become a cultural and social icon, serving as the backdrop for weddings, national celebrations, and international gatherings. Its presence ensures that Radisson Blu is not only a place of comfort but also a custodian of Kuwait’s identity.

Al Hashemi II, completed in 1998 and recognized by the Guinness World Records in 2002 as the largest wooden dhow ever built — a landmark tribute to Kuwait’s maritime history.

The early 2000s brought a wave of fresh experiences. Rangoli Restaurant added rich Indian flavors to the property’s culinary offerings, while the Azur swimming pool offered guests a revitalized leisure space. The creation of Sky Fitness and the Kids Club further established the hotel as a family-friendly destination. These enhancements ensured that Radisson Blu continued to appeal to both travelers and the local community, adapting to evolving tastes while staying true to its legacy.

In recent years, the hotel has demonstrated its ability to embrace new trends in lifestyle and wellness. In 2022, the opening of the Padel Court showed that Radisson Blu Kuwait continues to keep pace with the passions of today, creating spaces that resonate with younger generations while maintaining the timeless qualities that have defined it for decades.

A gathering of Radisson Blu Hotel, Kuwait’s leadership across the decades. From left to right: Jan Petter Eilersten (GM 2006–2010), Heimo Leitgeb (GM 1995–2000), Philippe Pellaud (GM 1992–1995 and 2010–present), Andreas Fluckiger (GM 2002–2006), Werner Kuendig (GM 1987–1991), Gaston Gellens (GM 2000–2002), Werner Knechtli (GM 1984–1987), Abdul Ilah Marafie (Chairman, First Hotel Company), and Kurt Ritter (GM 1979–1984).

For General Manager Philippe Pellaud, who has overseen several phases of transformation at the property, this milestone anniversary is first and foremost about people. “Our 45th anniversary is more than a celebration of history, it’s a celebration of the people who made it all possible,” he says. “Every guest, every colleague, and every moment shared here has shaped our journey. We’re excited for what the future holds as we continue to be a place where Kuwait comes together.”

It is a fitting sentiment, because the real story of Radisson Blu Kuwait is written not just in grand openings and renovations, but in the everyday experiences it has hosted. Weddings that begin lifelong journeys, business meetings that lead to international partnerships, family gatherings that turn into cherished traditions, all of these moments form the hotel’s living history.

As Radisson Blu Kuwait turns 45, it does so with gratitude and with vision. Gratitude for the generations of loyal guests who have made the hotel a part of their lives. Gratitude for the dedicated staff whose service and commitment have been the foundation of its success. And gratitude for the community that has embraced it as a second home.

Mr. Abdul Ilah Marafie overseeing the construction of Al Hashemi II, bringing his lifelong love for boats to life in this record-breaking dhow.

At the same time, the anniversary is a moment to look forward. If the past has shown anything, it is that Radisson Blu Kuwait thrives by balancing innovation with tradition. As hospitality continues to evolve, the hotel remains committed to leading the way, introducing new concepts, raising the bar for service, and preserving the cultural heritage that makes it unique.

From its pioneering beginnings in 1980 to its present-day role as a leader in Kuwaiti hospitality, Radisson Blu has remained a symbol of resilience, heritage, and heartfelt service. The next chapter promises to be just as bold, ensuring it remains a place where stories are made, memories are cherished, and Kuwait’s spirit shines brightly.

For more information, follow Blu Hotel, Kuwait. Hotel on Instagram @radissonblukuwait or call 25673000.

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