SLS Las Vegas is getting closer to the return of its old name ‘Sahara Hotel & Casino’ after the last remains of everything branded SLS were stripped away late last month. The casino has been operating under SLS Las Vegas for the past five years. The news of an official name change first surfaced in June but no official renaming date has since been announced. The renaming forms part of a $100 million re-branding strategy that is currently underway and is expected to run through next year.
The newly named Sahara Hotel & Casino belongs to The Meruelo Group owned by Cuban-American billionaire Alex Meruelo. Meruelo made the announcement late last month at a grand gathering attended by 700 guests that included dignitaries, celebrities, employees and other guests. The announcement was welcomed with a drone light show and fireworks. Meruelo told the crowd that the casino has played an important part in the evolution of Las Vegas, and that the time has come to write a new chapter for the SLS Las Vegas. The news of the return of Sahara was welcomed by residents who have embraced the casinos new throwback look.
The Meruelo Group bought Sahara Hotel & Casino from Stockbridge Capital Group in April last year for an undisclosed amount. The recent $100 face lift comes in addition to work already done to the casino since April 2018.
More Details on SLS Las Vegas Re-branding & Upgrades
All SLS signage was removed from the outside terraces of the building as part of the renovation process. This included the abolishment of a 32-foot statue called ‘Sam by Starck’ that was placed at the casinos front entrance.
The new project currently underway has already brought significant changes to the 60, 000 square foot Sahara Hotel & Casino. The $100 million upgrade consists of a completely new atmosphere created by a renovated ceiling and improved lighting. All the gaming areas that house the slot machines and table game areas were also given a new layout. An additional high-end gaming area has also opened called the Casbar Lounge. Paul Hobson, general manager at Sahara Hotel & Casino said in a statement that all the changes come in an effort to create an enhanced guest experience that can be enjoyed by everyone. He added that it feels great to debut all the new changes under a name that many have come to love.
Other new additions to the casino include a Chickie’s and Pete’s sports bar and restaurant located inside the new casino. Bazaar Meat will however remain the casinos signature restaurant. Sahara Hotel & Casino will also receive a new exterior paint job and the old Sam by Starck statue will be replaced by palm trees. The properties hotel facilities like the rooms, suites and tower corridors will also be renewed.
