64 January 2014 www.bahrainthismonth.com As the first indigenous five-star hospitality company, the Gulf Hotel has a tradition of setting benchmarks in Bahrain. It prides itself on the wide selection of food and beverage outlets, 14, the biggest room inventory, the largest convention centre in town with 29 meeting rooms and the highest participation of nationals in its workforce. This heritage will be celebrated later this year when the hotel marks its 45th anniversary. In preparation of this milestone, the hotel is embarking on a comprehensive renovation exercise this summer, with the South Wing being completely refreshed. The Gulf Executive Residences will also be revamped with a modern ambience. “The Gulf Hotel has accomplished a lot since it opened its doors in 1969. Happily, my role will be to build on what has been achieved so far,” says new general manager, Rahim Omar. The Jordanian national is no stranger to the GCC market having spent 30 years in the hospitality sector in Dubai, where he opened five hotels. While he finds Bahrain much more relaxing after Dubai, Rahim makes it very clear that he wouldn’t have moved to the Kingdom at this point if it hadn’t been for the Gulf Hotel brand. “Combining the hotel with the executive apartments we have an inventory of 460 rooms, which is quite big for Bahrain. While competition from new players definitely represents a challenge, we believe the market is growing. If Bahrain is promoted well abroad, the business that’ll be generated will offset the large inventory piling up in the Kingdom,” he believes. Meanwhile, the Gulf Hotel will open its Indian restaurant in collaboration with an international celebrity chef in September this year. The launch of a commercial laundry on the hotel premises this year is expected to be another revenue generator. SIMI KAMBOJ Just shy of its 45th anniversary, the Gulf Hotel is ushering in many developments in the New Year. New general manager Rahim Omar outlines his plans. businessinterview xxxxx The Gulf Hotel has accomplished a lot since it opened its doors in 1969. Happily, my role will be to build on what has been achieved so far Rahim Omar To help guests relax and unwind, the Gulf Hotel is opening a BD3 million spa complex in late 2014 or early 2015. Designed by Portugal based spa specialist ASPA, the twostorey spa will feature hydro pools, hammam, sauna and steam room, treatment rooms and relaxation areas on both floors. The ladies’ floor will include a fully equipped gym, a beauty, hairdresser, nail salon, and a spa boutique. The complex will feature a roof-top terrace with an outdoor relaxation area and a healthy refreshment service. “The spa will provide the same level of exceptional service that the Gulf Hotel is renowned for and will help maintain our tradition of excellence in Bahrain,” says Rahim. New spa complex Surging Ahead
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