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Raffles to debut in Bahrain with GFH

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Accor is set to debut the iconic Raffles brand in Bahrain after signing a milestone agreement with GFH Financial Group (GFH) to manage the Kingdom’s first ultra-luxurious retreat.

Raffles Hotels & Resorts is renowned for bringing old world elegance, first class travel experiences and genuine charm to the world’s most fascinating cities and desirable holiday hot spots since 1887. Raffles Bahrain will continue this legacy with a landmark takeover of the Al Areen Palace & Spa. This private resort features 78 pool villas as well as the region’s largest spa and hydrotherapy facility and landscaping inspired by the Arabian palace gardens.

“We are delighted to partner with GFH Financial Group, one of the leading investment houses in the Gulf region, to debut the Raffles brand in Bahrain, a destination which has emerged as a sophisticated option for discerning travellers from the Gulf and all over the world,” said Mark Willis, chief executive officer, Accor Middle East & Africa.

Hisham Al Rayes, CEO, and GFH, said: “It is a privilege to forge a long-term partnership with Accor, a world-leading hospitality group with an unrivalled portfolio of brands. Launching the globally-revered luxury brand Raffles is a major achievement for Bahrain, elevating its status as a lifestyle destination and significantly enhancing GFH’s fast-growing collection of prestigious real estate projects.”

Following its takeover of Al Areen Palace & Spa, Accor will conduct an extensive refurbishment programme with a view to repositioning the property as the ultimate luxury retreat, complemented by its proximity to major venues and attractions including Bahrain International F1 Circuit, the new Bahrain Exhibition and Convention Centre, Al Areen Wildlife Reserve, Bahrain Sailing Club and the Lost Paradise of Dilmun Waterpark.

Property enhancements attuned to Raffles brand standards will include the refurbishment of the 56 one-bedroom Desert Pool Villas and 22 two-bedroom Royal Pool Villas, which feature open-air swimming and jet pools, and converting its four F&B outlets to six.

Once renovations are complete, the property will then be re-launched as Raffles Bahrain – a luxurious, all-pool-villa retreat in a serene location, complemented by the legendary Raffles service.

The resort’s 10,000 sq m spa and hydrotherapy area, one of the Middle East’s largest and featuring 16 spa pavilions, the world’s first garden hammam and a hydrothermal garden, will be renovated and upgraded. Extensive health facilities including separate male and female gymnasiums, the kids’ club and indoor and outdoor swimming pools will see uplift and refurbishment.

Raffles Bahrain will also introduce signature wellness experiences to the Kingdom, including Raffles Sleep Rituals, designed to help guests unwind, get a peaceful night’s rest and wake up feeling refreshed and part of the brand’s well-being strategy.  

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