Destination Bahrain: Raffles Al Areen Palace offers a regal getaway

With villas, verandas and vivacious vastness, this property offers the royal getaway that you need.

Bahrain has long been a favourite getaway for Saudi residents — thanks to its proximity and cultural offerings. As someone who grew up in Riyadh, I frequented the island, primarily to catch the latest cinema releases or for Eid celebrations. So when I received an invite to stay at Raffles Al Areen Palace, I was ready to see a different side of Bahrain.

Upon arrival, the country looked very similar to my nostalgic memories from the late 90s and early 2000s. I spotted the Kids Kingdom where my younger sister once got lost. Other iconic locations, such as the Pearl Roundabout, were nowhere to be seen and had since been demolished. 

About 50 minutes from the revamped Bahrain International Airport, we arrived at Raffles Al Areen Palace. Located close to the Bahrain International F1 Circuit, the property’s concept of “secret gardens” became apparent as soon as we reached the driveway. The lush greenery with palm trees, a majestic fountain, and bold brown gates resembling those of ancient palaces welcomed us.

Arabian charm

The entrance was nothing short of spectacular. A doorman dressed in traditional Bahraini attire, complete with a ceremonial sword, greeted us — not for a duel, but as part of the grand welcome. The intricate Arabic design elements of the cantilevered roof created a beautiful mix of light and shadow.

Stepping inside, the grandeur continued with the lobby. High ceilings, over 1,000 cascading plants, and water fountains set the tone for the royal treatment that lay ahead. Marble flooring with patterns elevated the space while the pearly white decor perfectly complemented by lush greenery — including the Traveller’s Palm, which is found on the Raffles logo — and gold accents exuded elegance and luxury.

We were soon whisked away to our villa in a buggy—a short but beautiful ride through the expansive landscaped “secret” gardens. We passed by elaborate water features and dozens of palm trees and couldn’t help but feel like royalty. Little did we know that this feeling was going to reach new heights once we got to the villa.

Royal Hideaways

Raffles Al Areen Palace is the only all-villa property in Bahrain, boasting 78 units with one, two and three-bedroom villa layouts to provide a secluded haven of luxury.

The doors to our One Bedroom Royal Villa resembled a castle. The villa’s perimeter is lined with greenery and built like an Arabian fort — gleaming in the sunlight with its white exterior. The centrepiece was undoubtedly the private pool, complete with a Jacuzzi shaded by the villa’s main structure. 

To one side of the villa’s veranda was a spacious outdoor dining area with a table for six. Sunbeds for relaxation overlooked the pool and a cosy majlis area, with doors leading to the air-conditioned room with a TV and plush seating — perfect if you’re in the mood to host.

Passing by the pool, the living area greeted us with a plush, beige sofa and hints of blue. Part of the living area also featured a study table. Set in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows, it provided a perfect workspace with ample natural light.

Beyond the living area, partitioned by the sliding doors, lay the bedroom — fit for a queen. The super king-size bed promised luxury with comfort — and views of the pool outside. The Arabic design elements on the wall behind the bed added a touch of cultural richness, while the textured carpet complemented the beige and gold accents throughout the room.

Further into the villa, a walk-in closet with ample storage space and a vanity area awaited, complete with Dyson hair tools. This space led into the spacious bathroom. A heated private toilet area was to the left, and a luxurious black ceramic tub offered a chance to soak in.

Recreation and Relaxation

Beyond the luxurious villas, Raffles Al Areen Palace offers a wealth of amenities. The pavilion provides a great spot for guests to unwind with shisha or watch the sunset. It also offers outdoor seating that overlooks a small lake home to a flock of flamingos. 

Elsewhere, the outdoor pool transitions through a mirrored separation towards the indoor pool. Adjacent to the pool area are the tennis courts and fitness centre. While the Wellness Centre — the largest one in Bahrain — is currently undergoing renovations and is expected to be fully operational in the coming months.

Currently, the dining options at Raffles Al Areen Palace are limited when compared to other luxurious counterparts. However, the hotel does provide in-room dining and butler service — a feature that the property takes huge pride in — around the clock.

Ycone Paris, a patisserie in collaboration with world-famous pastry chef Yasid Ichemrahen, offers coffee and cake, while Palma, the all-day Mediterranean restaurant with a central tree, sets the tone for hearty meals. Looking ahead, the property has plans to expand its dining offerings, promising more culinary options. 

Close by is the Writer’s Lounge which is home to thousands of books, plush lounge seating, and a pool table. The darker interiors created a Gatsby-like ambience but with a Bahraini twist. The ceiling featured calligraphy by Bahrain poet Ahmed Mohammed Al Khalifa and the walls are adorned with gold-painted tapestry by local artists.

The Final Decree

If you’re looking for a truly royal getaway, without hopping on a long-haul flight, Raffles Al Areen Palace in Bahrain is a great choice. With expansive villas and verandas, pools and privacy, gardens and grandeur, it’s the perfect destination to bond with family, have a romantic retreat or revel in regality.

GO: Visit www.raffles.com for more information.