Marriott International introduced its Residence Inn by Marriott lodging brand for extended stay travelers in Bahrain, under a long-term management agreement with International Trading and Investment Co. The 80-unit Residence Inn by Marriott Manama Juffair, located in suburban Manama, welcomed its first guests on December 10, 2011. It is the first Residence Inn-branded property in the Middle East.

The property features a total of 80 units, including 26 studios, 17 one-bedroom suites, 35 two-bedroom suites and two three-bedroom suites.

“We are  thrilled by the continued expansion of our presence in Bahrain and are excited to introduce our third lodging brand in the country, giving travelers a growing choice in accommodations when they visit the country,” said Ed Fuller, president & managing director of International Lodging for Marriott International.

“One third of today’s global business travelers are extended stay guests. As the leader in this segment in North America, Residence Inn is proud to introduce to the Middle East our expertise and distinct service culture that tailors to the unique needs of this group of traveler,” said Diane Mayer, vice president and global brand manager for Residence Inn.

The Residence Inn by Marriott Juffair offers a mix of spacious, stylish and residential-feel studios, one-, two- and three-bedroom suites. A purposeful layout with designated zones allows guests to relax, work, eat, and sleep in their suites, while maintaining their routines at their own pace while traveling. Every suite features kitchens that come complete with full-sized refrigerators and stainless steel appliances that make living on the road easier for business travelers on long stays and families on leisure travel. With expansive workspace and ample easily accessible outlets, and 42 inches flat screen TV, guests are fully equipped with state-of-the-art technology. All the suites and lobby will have access to free High Speed Internet Access. Rates vary with length of stay.

Like its suites, the hotel’s public space is comfortable and multi-functional.  The Cafe-Lounge serves a daily complimentary hot breakfast buffet while a “Grab and Go” kiosk/market offers snacks for purchase 24 hours a day. The new hotel also has a business center that includes a 20-square meter meeting room for business or social gatherings.

Among the recreational amenities are an outdoor swimming pool and an 140-square meter  health and leisure club with men’s/women’s lockers with separate sauna and whirlpool, the perfect place to relax and unwind.

The Residence Inn by Marriott Juffair is located adjacent to the Marriott Executive Apartments in an attractive suburban neighborhood of Manama that is popular with international visitors and upwardly mobile Bahrainis. Juffair is the site of Bahrain’s largest mosque, the huge domed Al Fateh Mosque, as well as the adjacent new National Library.

Sam Van Campenhout, General Manager for both properties added “I would like to thank our owner Sheikh Mohammed Abdulrahman Al-Khalifa Managing Director of ITICO (International Trading & Investment Co.). He and his team have been instrumental in developing a great product for us to bring to our guests.”