The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), a leading hospitality group under the Tata Group, has announced the signing of two luxurious Taj-branded hotels in Bahrain. This marks IHCL’s first step into the Kingdom of Bahrain, further expanding its presence in the fast-growing Middle East hospitality market.
The company has partnered with Kingdom Projects W.L.L., a prominent Bahraini real estate developer, to bring these two premium properties to life. The development includes a beachfront resort in Hamala and a sophisticated city hotel in the bustling Downtown Seef district of Manama.
This strategic expansion aligns with IHCL’s vision to grow the Taj brand globally by entering key international gateway cities.
Taj Resort to Open in Hamala
The first of the two hotels will be a luxurious Taj resort located in Hamala, on the west coast of Bahrain. Designed as a tranquil escape, the resort will offer 251 well-appointed rooms and suites. Set against the serene coastline, the resort is planned as a blend of contemporary elegance and traditional Arabian charm.
Amenities will include:
- An all-day dining restaurant
- Two specialty dining options
- A large outdoor swimming pool
- A private beach club
- A modern fitness center
- A luxurious spa and wellness center
- Over 1,200 square meters of banquet and event spaces
The resort will cater to both leisure travelers and event organizers, positioning itself as a premier destination for weddings, conferences, and high-end holidays.
Taj Hotel in Downtown Seef, Manama
The second property will be a city-style luxury hotel in the heart of Bahrain’s capital. With 200 rooms, the Downtown Seef Taj Hotel will appeal to business travelers, tourists, and locals seeking refined hospitality in the city.
Highlights of the property will include:
- All-day dining and specialty restaurants
- A stylish rooftop pool bar
- A full-service spa and wellness center
- A state-of-the-art gym
- An outdoor pool
- Modern banquet and meeting facilities
The hotel’s central location in one of Bahrain’s most active business and entertainment districts makes it ideal for both corporate guests and tourists exploring the capital.
Strengthening IHCL’s Global Strategy
With these two additions, IHCL now has seven hotels in the Middle East, including four that are under development. The expansion is part of the company’s larger goal to introduce the iconic Taj brand to more international destinations known for their vibrant tourism and business potential.
Puneet Chhatwal, Managing Director and CEO of IHCL, emphasized that the Middle East remains a significant growth market for the group. “We are delighted to partner with Kingdom Projects to launch the Taj brand in Bahrain. These hotels will offer a blend of world-class Indian hospitality and local cultural experiences,” he said.
In Line with Bahrain’s Vision 2030
This move also supports Bahrain’s Vision 2030, a long-term national development plan focused on economic diversification and tourism growth. The government is actively working to attract international brands and enhance the country’s position as a luxury tourism destination in the Gulf region.
By bringing a globally respected Indian luxury brand to Bahrain, IHCL is contributing to the nation’s goal of boosting its tourism and hospitality infrastructure.
Kingdom Projects W.L.L: Trusted Partner in Bahrain
Kingdom Projects W.L.L. is a Bahrain-based developer known for high-end real estate projects and its commitment to excellence. The partnership with IHCL is seen as a major step in raising the standard of hospitality offerings in the country.
A spokesperson from Kingdom Projects expressed confidence in the collaboration, stating, “We are proud to bring the Taj brand to Bahrain. Together with IHCL, we aim to create unique and world-class hospitality experiences for residents and visitors.”
Taj: A Legacy of Excellence
The Taj brand, founded in 1903 with the iconic Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai, is globally recognized for its unmatched service and timeless luxury. IHCL operates a portfolio of over 325 hotels across India and international locations, including the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and now Bahrain.
The company’s portfolio spans four brands:
- Taj – Luxury segment
- SeleQtions – Curated heritage and boutique hotels
- Vivanta – Upscale business and leisure hotels
- Ginger – Lean luxe for budget-conscious travelers
By introducing Taj to Bahrain, IHCL brings over a century of experience in luxury hospitality to a new audience in the Gulf region.
Conclusion: A Landmark Moment for IHCL and Bahrain
IHCL’s entry into Bahrain is more than just a business expansion—it is a meeting of cultures, ambitions, and future-focused visions. The two Taj properties promise to deliver Indian warmth and hospitality blended with Bahraini heritage and luxury, offering experiences that stand out in the region.
As tourism and international travel continue to rebound globally, these two hotels are expected to attract a mix of global tourists, business leaders, and event organizers, further placing Bahrain on the map as a luxury destination in the Middle East.
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