Craving a luxurious eco-retreat on Bahrain’s UNESCO-recognised island? Hawar Resort by Mantis has officially opened its doors, inviting guests to an exclusive island getaway. Just 20 kilometres from Bahrain’s mainland, the resort blends luxury with sustainability, creating an unforgettable retreat surrounded by pristine landscapes and diverse wildlife.
The Resort was officially inaugurated in late December, following a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by His Royal Highness Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Personal Representative of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for the Environment.
The opening of this resort marks a significant milestone in Bahrain’s tourism goals. Hawar Island has long been one of Bahrain’s fiercely protected islands. Home to a plethora of biodiversity including the sand gazelles, Arabian oryx, multicoloured coral reefs, and endangered dugongs, the island also attracts various migratory birds, including Socotra Cormorants and nesting sea eagles, making it popular among birdwatchers. The resort has been an ambitious project for the Kingdom – offering tourists a slice of wellness, sustainability and adventure.
Guests begin their journey at the Durrat Al Bahrain Pavilion, the resort’s dedicated arrival hub, where warm hospitality and a seamless check-in set the stage for the adventure ahead. This thoughtfully designed space allows guests to relax before boarding a boat to Hawar Island, enhancing the anticipation of their stay.
With 104 elegant accommodations, including rooms, beach villas, overwater villas—many featuring private pools and direct beach access—and two tented suites, the resort caters to families, couples, and solo explorers alike.
Guests can enjoy land-based adventures such as camel and horseback riding, or marvel at the majestic Socotra cormorant birds in their natural habitat. Falcon shows offer insight into regional traditions, while water sports enthusiasts can take part in kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, paddle surfboarding, jet skiing, and house reef snorkelling. Scuba diving will also be introduced at a later stage for those eager to explore the island’s crystal-clear waters.
A highlight of the resort is the Bear Grylls Adventure Zone, which will open soon after the resort’s launch. Designed by Bear Grylls and his team, it offers survival courses and outdoor challenges tailored for both families and experienced adventurers.
For those seeking tranquillity, the resort’s spa provides a range of soothing treatments, while the seafront pool offers a perfect spot for relaxation. A state-of-the-art gym caters to fitness enthusiasts, and dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs ensure entertainment for younger guests.
Hawar Resort by Mantis boasts five distinctive dining venues, each offering a unique gastronomic experience. Bahri, the all-day dining restaurant, serves fresh Gulf seafood and regional delights, while the Beach Lounge provides a relaxed setting for refreshing cocktails. The resort’s signature restaurant, C-Salt, features an innovative dining concept with seasonal pop-ups and celebrity chef appearances, ensuring a dynamic culinary experience with every visit.
True to its eco-conscious philosophy, the resort is designed with sustainability in mind. Advanced conservation techniques and waste management systems protect the island’s ecosystem, while sustainable materials, such as bamboo and eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics, are used throughout the property. In-room amenities are thoughtfully curated to minimise environmental impact, ensuring that the island’s natural beauty and biodiversity are preserved for generations to come.
Andre Erasmus, General Manager of Hawar Resort by Mantis, expressed his excitement about the launch, stating: “We are thrilled to welcome guests to Hawar Resort by Mantis and showcase the breathtaking beauty of Hawar Island. This resort embodies a deep respect for the environment and Bahrain’s rich cultural heritage, offering an island retreat that is both luxurious and sustainable.”
