Meliá Hotels International will enter the Bahrain market for the first time, confirming plans to open a new hotel and branded residences on Amwaj Island as part of its continued Middle East expansion strategy. The Spanish hospitality group said the development will open in 2027 and will feature 256 units, including 150 hotel rooms and 106 branded residences, all operated under the Meliá Hotels & Resorts brand.

The move comes as the Middle East strengthens its position as a global tourism hub, driven by rising demand for high-end travel experiences and lifestyle-focused hospitality. Meliá described the Bahrain project as a natural step in its regional growth plans, noting the country’s increasing appeal as an upscale destination and its growing role in international travel trends.

According to the company, the Amwaj Island property will deliver a “holistic lifestyle experience” incorporating wellness, tailored service and contemporary design. The resort will include five swimming pools, dining and retail options, landscaped gardens, wellness facilities and extensive MICE amenities. In addition, the resort will host Beso Beach, a Mediterranean-inspired beach club featuring private cabanas, exclusive areas and signature cuisine.

Amwaj Island has emerged as one of Bahrain’s key waterfront developments, combining beach access, residential communities and leisure facilities. Located roughly 15 minutes from Bahrain International Airport, the area is positioned as a premium beachfront district offering privacy and convenience. Bahrain recorded more than 10 million visitors in 2023, with forecasts suggesting the figure could exceed 14 million by 2026 under the country’s Tourism Strategy 2022–2026.

For Meliá Hotels International Chairman and CEO Gabriel Escarrer, “Bahrain represents a unique opportunity to strengthen our presence in the Middle East. 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”.

The project is being developed in partnership with Infracorp. Majed Al Khan, CEO of Infracorp, said, “Partnering with Meliá Hotels International marks a significant milestone in our mission to shape Bahrain’s future as a premier tourism destination. At Infracorp, we are committed to creating sustainable, high-impact developments that elevate the country’s global appeal.”

The Bahrain opening reinforces Meliá’s focus on combining hospitality services with branded residential offerings, a model the company says meets evolving traveller expectations for flexibility, exclusivity and long-term value.