Meliá Hotels International Expands in the Middle East With First Bahrain Property

Image: Melia is expanding in the Middle East with a property in Bahrain. (Photo Credit: Melia Hotels International)
Image: Melia is expanding in the Middle East with a property in Bahrain. (Photo Credit: Melia Hotels International)
Eraine Wessler
by Eraine Wessler
Last updated: 8:00 PM ET, Thu October 30, 2025

Meliá Hotels International is expanding its Middle Eastern presence with its first hotel in Bahrain, marking a strategic entry into one of the Gulf's most dynamic tourism markets. 

The new Meliá Hotels & Resorts property will be located on Amwaj Island, an exclusive master-planned development just 15 minutes from Bahrain International Airport.

Set to open in 2027, the property will feature 256 units comprising 150 hotel rooms and 106 branded residences, all managed by Meliá Hotels International. This hybrid model reflects the company's growing commitment to merging premium hospitality with residential ownership, catering to the region's increasing demand for high-end lifestyle offerings.

The hotel is designed to deliver a comprehensive luxury experience centered on wellness, design and personalized service. Guests and residents will have access to five swimming pools, diverse dining and retail outlets, wellness areas, landscaped gardens and extensive meeting and events facilities. A highlight of the property will be Beso Beach, the renowned international beach club offering signature Mediterranean cuisine, private cabanas and members-only spaces.

Bahrain has positioned itself as a rising force in regional tourism, welcoming over 10 million visitors in 2023. According to the country's Tourism Strategy 2022-2026, visitor numbers are projected to exceed 14 million by 2026. This growth is driven by government investment in modern infrastructure and a strategic focus on economic diversification through leisure and cultural tourism.

Amwaj Island provides an ideal setting for the development, offering privacy, sea views, private beaches and upscale amenities while maintaining easy accessibility to the capital and airport.

“Bahrain represents a unique opportunity to strengthen our presence in the Middle East,” said Gabriel Escarrer, Chairman and CEO of Meliá Hotels International. “Its growing influence as a source market, combined with the development of high-value destinations, makes it a strategic hub for our brands. Being present and recognized in a region that is redefining global tourism is a key part of our long-term vision.”


For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.

Topics From This Article to Explore

Related Videos

Become A Travel Expert

Upcoming Webinar
Designing Meaningful and Seamless Experiences Across JapanThursday, January 15, 2026
4:00pm Eastern
Hankyu Travel DMC Japan is a destination management specialist serving both luxury and regular...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Baja California Specialist ProgramThe stunning landscapes of Baja California is a vacation paradise that is easily accessible from major...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Puerto Vallarta Specialist ProgramEnveloped in the beauty of a by-gone time, this colorful town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is sure to win...
Upcoming Webinar
Designing Meaningful and Seamless Experiences Across JapanThursday, January 15, 2026
4:00pm Eastern
Hankyu Travel DMC Japan is a destination management specialist serving both luxury and regular...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Baja California Specialist ProgramThe stunning landscapes of Baja California is a vacation paradise that is easily accessible from major...
Travel Agent Academy
Travel Agent Academy
Puerto Vallarta Specialist ProgramEnveloped in the beauty of a by-gone time, this colorful town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast is sure to win...

Get To Know Us Better

Agent At Home

Helping leisure selling travel agents successfully manage their at-home business.

Subscribe For Free

Agent Specialization: Group Travel

Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC

About Me
Agent At Home

Helping leisure selling travel agents successfully manage their at-home business.

Subscribe For Free

Agent Specialization: Group Travel

Laurence Pinckney

Laurence Pinckney

CEO of Zenbiz Travel, LLC

About Me