Five-star hotel occupancy high for F1 Bahrain GP

TDT | Manama                                        

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com   

Reported by Zahra Ayaz

For years the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix has lured tens of thousands of motorsport fans to Bahrain, and boosted the occupancy in many five-star hotels, according to hoteliers.

Hotels usually run at 100 percent occupancy during grand prix week, with a useful synergy having developed with Gulf Air, national carriers, and the title sponsor of the Bahrain race, with a significant number of the guests arriving through Bahrain International Airport.

Charbel Hanna, General Manager of Crowne Plaza Bahrain, told The Daily Tribune that F1 has put Bahrain on the international sporting map, and the Kingdom is now a leading destination as the home of motorsports in the Middle East.

Bahrain has also showcased to the world that it is one of the most reputed countries to host many other sporting and motoring events since.

“F1 season plays an important part in our revenue strategies,” said Mr. Hanna. “This is much-needed, especially after the substantial losses over the last two years due to the pandemic-induced lockdowns.

“We regard the Bahrain Grand Prix as not only the opportunity to welcome the arrival of tourists but also our chance to showcase our signature hospitality and give them a memorable experience.

“Hence, it not only brings a positive economic impact but also the opportunity to increase our guest loyalty to our hotel.” In addition to the extravagant events hosted by Bahrain International Circuit, Mr. Hanna added: “We have also put together some exciting and memorable experiences in our outlets for our guests, such as our Theme Nights in our all-day dining, and an after party in our Harvester Lounge.”

Speaking to The Daily Tribune, Nicolas Gardier, General Manager of Downtown Rotana, said: “The hotel has been very busy from pre-season testing until the race day. We had good occupancy with the Formula 1 team and also with the fans coming to enjoy the show.

“The race has brought tourists from different parts of the world and hotels have majorly benefitted from the influx of F1 teams, media, FIA, etc. “The impact is major as the occupancy of the market was high for almost three weeks. We can see that all hotels have taken advantage of that.”

Mr. Gardier added: “To accommodate the new wave of guests visiting the city, we are currently running different activities in the hotel that cut across all areas. In our dining outlets, we have introduced new offers such as Seafood Night and themed daily lunches at Flavours on 2 sets to satisfy all cravings.

“To those staying with us, we have personalized F1 amenities in all rooms. Art lovers were also not left out as the hotel is supporting local artists by displaying their art at the hotel lobby throughout this F1 season, where anyone can take home a piece of the local Bahrain culture.