82 Years Later, Hamra’s Le Commodore Hotel Is Closing Down
After 82 years as one of Beirut’s most familiar hotels, Le Commodore Hotel in Hamra will be closing its doors on January 10, 2026.
Article found in « Beirut.com » : https://www.beirut.com/en/768199/
Le Commodore was built back in 1943, growing into a central part of the city. Its location made it a go‑to spot for travelers, students, and locals alike, with 203 rooms and suites, pool access, conference facilities, and well‑liked on‑site restaurants including the famous Benihana, which sadly closed its doors on Monday.
During the Lebanese Civil War, the hotel became a safe haven for foreign correspondents and diplomats. After suffering damage during that period, the original building was demolished and then rebuilt and reopened in February 1996.
Along the way it also saw a major renovation in 2004, refreshing its facilities for new generations of guests.
During the Lebanese Civil War, the hotel became a safe haven for foreign correspondents and diplomats. After suffering damage during that period, the original building was demolished and then rebuilt and reopened in February 1996.
Along the way it also saw a major renovation in 2004, refreshing its facilities for new generations of guests.
A
Le Méridien Commodore
L’hôtel Commodore a été inauguré en 1958, au cœur de Hamra, à la rue de Lyon. En 1975, avec le début de la guerre, l’hôtel se transforma en quartier général des correspondants de la presse étrangère devenant leur home away from home. Il ne disposait, à cette époque, que de 132 chambres. Pris entre le feu croisé des différentes milices, le Commodore ferma ses portes en 1987. Neuf ans après, le 27 février 1996, l’hôtel s’agrandit, se dote de 209 chambres et redevient fonctionnel. Il signe un accord de gestion avec Le Méridien Hotels & Resorts et devient ainsi Le Méridien Commodore Beirut.
