Bahrain's Sofitel resort the latest...

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa's new accommodations include three bedrooms and a private infinity pool

The trend for overwater villas in the Middle East shows no sign of slowing, with Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa being the latest luxury resort to introduce aquatic accommodation.

The new villas, set above the Arabian Gulf, combine what the resort calls “a harmonious fusion of Parisian elegance and Bahraini charm”.

Four villas each cover an extensive 360 square metres with a master suite, two additional bedrooms, a living area, dining space with kitchenette and a private deck with an infinity pool.

Designed for up to nine guests, the villas offer access to the resort’s amenities, including diverse dining options, from Greek to Hyderabadi cuisine, as well as a kids' club, a fitness centre and the only seawater spa in the region.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa

Perched on the pristine beaches of Zallaq overlooking the Arabian Gulf on Bahrain's west coast, the resort – which opened in 2011 – is just a five-minute drive from Bahrain International Circuit for Formula 1.

Mehdi Hanayan, Cluster General Manager of Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, said the introduction of these overwater villas reflects Sofitel Bahrain’s commitment to offering “distinctive experiences in the region”.

“This new addition allows us to provide an elevated level of privacy and comfort while integrating elements of local and French-inspired design.”

Overwater villas are making waves in the region, having found fame and fans in traditional hotspots such as the Maldives.

Also in Bahrain, Hawar Resort by Mantis opened in January 2025 with 104 beachside and overwater villas. Nestled within a wildlife sanctuary on UNESCO-listed Hawar Island, a 30-minute boat ride from the mainland, the eco-luxury resort offers cooking classes, kayaking tours and wildlife adventures.

Hawar Resort by Mantis, Bahrain

Ennismore is bringing overwater villas to the King Abdullah Economic City in Saudi Arabia mid-2025 at the Rixos KAEC.

Already accepting guests in the kingdom, Shebara, the first luxury resort to be fully owned and operated by Red Sea Global, has 38 stunning overwater villas. Also part of Red Sea Global, Nujuma has 63 overwater and beach villas, offering one-to-three-bedrooms, living areas and private pools.

In the UAE, Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah opened in January 2024 and has overwater villas with outdoor decks with private plunge pools.

In Qatar, Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara also has overwater villas. Reachable by catamaran, the island recently launched a new adventure park.

For more information, visit visit www.sofitel.accor.com

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