Hotel Grande Dames Do Battle in Paris

Two grand hotels in Paris, tarted up by mega-money from Mideast and Far East royalty, are preparing to compete for the carriage trade.

On Saturday the George V, long renowned as one of the City of Light’s most elegant hotels, reopens after a two-year, $125-million renovation. Its new name: the Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris. Although managed by Four Seasons, the eight-story building, off the Champs-Elysees, is owned by a nephew of Saudi Arabia’s King Fahd, Prince Waleed ibn Talal. Opened in 1928, the George V is known for its Art Deco facade and for celebrity guests. In World War II, U.S. Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower used it as headquarters.

The renovation has restored 17th century tapestries, redone bathrooms and installed modern communications. There’s a new spa, swimming pool, two restaurants and a bar. Rooms start at $500; three Royal Suites go for $7,650. Telephone (800) 332-3442.

Meanwhile, the sultan of Brunei is renovating the equally venerable Meurice, on the Rue de Rivoli across from the Tuileries. Closed since March, it is to reopen next April with 160 rooms. The 1835-vintage hotel has hosted Queen Victoria, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor and World War II forces from both sides. A spokeswoman said the sultan “does not want to disclose the amount of money he spends on the hotel.” Room rates: doubles from about $550, the rooftop Royal Suite for more than $8,000. Tel. 011-33-1-4458-1010.