25 July 2005

DUBAI -- Al Areen Holding Company, developers of the $750 million Al Areen development (Al Areen), yesterday announced the various components of the Banyan Tree Spa and Resort, which will be operated and managed by Asia's largest luxury spa and resort operator, Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts (Banyan Tree).

Announcing the details, a statement from Al Areen said construction of the spa and resort, coming up on a total area of 112,000 square metres, is on fast track and will be completed before the scheduled date of completion. The desert spa and resort is at the heart of the Phase I component of Al Areen -- the two million square metres integrated mixed-use project, which is being developed at an investment of $100 million. The construction of the unique spa and resort commenced three months ago.

The spa and resort is the first venture for Banyan Tree in the Kingdom of Bahrain and is a cornerstone of the company's Middle East expansion strategy.

The Banyan Tree Desert Spa and Resort will feature 78 luxurious bungalows on a total built-up area of 32,000 square metres, including 22 presidential two-bedroom villas and 56 single-bedroom villas, all with their own private garden, swimming pool and jaccuzi.

Banyan Tree will further incorporate their world-famous Saffron restaurant into the dynamic landscape of the resort, bordering the spectacular grounds of the Al Areen Wildlife Sanctuary.

The main spa complex will feature and provide facilities such as the world's largest hydro-therapy treatment centre, a private deluxe spa pavilion, and a dramatic swimming pool flowing from inside the complex out to the open-air sports and recreation courtyard. It will also house a range of specialised medical and therapeutic treatments, signature massage and beauty services, conference facilities, a library, and a children's play area.

The components of the Al Areen development span residential villages, themed hotels, a water park, and boast a variety of sports, leisure, entertainment and retail facilities.  It is being developed as a luxury resort, away from the hustle and bustle of city life, a 35-minute drive away from the Bahrain International Airport.

BY A STAFF REPORTER

© Khaleej Times 2005