The first lifestyle franchise of its kind locally, ME Malta Hotel will be housed within a second 20- floor building that flanks a public square. It follows the recent opening of ME Dubai, an iconic architectural wonder also designed by Zaha Hadid Architects.
The entire project is being undertaken by Mercury Towers Ltd – owned by Gozitan developer Joseph Portelli – and promises ongoing improvements to the urban fabric of the area, and an introduction of inclusive, family oriented amenities.
Lifestyle destination project Mercury Towers will open its doors in September 2023, marking the first phase within a six month launch period which will see it go fully operational by the first quarter of 2024.
Designed by one of the world’s most prolific architects of her time, the late Zaha Hadid, the St Julian’s development consists of the restored Grade II listed Mercury House, accompanied by a 33-floor residential tower – Malta’s tallest to date – and the luxe five-star ME Malta Hotel by Meliá.
A company statement said that “the area is witnessing a gradual transformation, making it more welcoming for both residents and visitors”.
“During its inaugural phase, commencing in 2023, Mercury Towers will re-invent Malta’s retail landscape through a curated mix of over 80 multi-category lifestyle brands, setting a new benchmark in choice for the local consumer.”
It was also shared that the project’s portfolio of food and beverage concepts are highly diverse, as renowned international franchises and local artisan delights are poised to reinforce “Malta’s position as a premium foodie destination for the global traveller”.
Offering an experience that cannot be found anywhere else on the island, this curated mix responds to a growing appetite for delectable food and innovative experiential dining.
Mercury Towers will also introduce “cutting edge entertainment” to complement shopping and dining, such as “adrenaline-fueled activities” and “fully immersive, technology-driven performances”. More detail on this will be revealed in the coming weeks.
Once fully operational in Q1 of 2024, Mercury Towers promises to evolve into a vibrant new quarter encompassing accommodation, shopping, dining, entertainment, residential and wellness facilities, setting new standards for local industry.
Anchored in art, design, innovation, and community-led activity, Mercury Towers aspires to become a new cultural hub, curating lifestyle experiences which serve to inspire thought, and a sense of place. With 4,000 square meters of open public spaces, Mercury Towers has repurposed a once-gated space for public use, while paying homage to the futuristic flair of starchitect Zaha Hadid, whose work is characterized by the ever-present curve.
Article credits: https://whoswho.mt/en/mercury-towers-to-open-in-september-2023-and-be-fully-operational-by-q1-2024
Malta to welcome vaccinated Brits from June
As of June 1st, Malta will welcome passengers from the UK who have been fully vaccinated against Covid-19.
British travellers who can show proof of full vaccination received at least ten days before arriving in the country will no longer have to provide a negative PCR test certificate 72 hours prior to, or on arrival in Malta.
Passengers will need to show their vaccination card when boarding to be accepted to travel.
Malta is second to the UK in terms of European countries vaccinating the greatest proportion of its population, with 40 per cent of the adult population having received its first dose, making the destination a safe choice for future travel.
Tolene Van Der Merwe, director UK & Ireland of Malta Tourism Authority, commented: “Malta is a very popular destination for British holidaymakers and is a key contributor to Malta’s economy, so we are excited to welcome back fully vaccinated travellers from the United Kingdom from June.
This latest announcement is another example of Malta and the UK’s special, long-standing relationship which dates back to the 1800 when Malta voluntarily became part of the British Empire as a protectorate and in the 20th century Malta was famously favoured by her majesty the Queen, and she spent two years living on the island when the Duke of Edinburgh conducted his work for the Royal Navy and returned for many state visits.
Present day Malta offers world-class diving, a burgeoning gastronomy scene and year-round warm weather.
The islands have an exciting few months in store with a wealth of new restaurant, hotel and spa openings for travellers to enjoy when they can return.
