The Crowne Plaza Bahrain hotel in the Diplomatic Area was struck yesterday morning, as Iran’s attack continued on the kingdom and across the region.
According to the Interior Ministry, the strike damaged the building but there was ‘no loss of life’.
A GDN team member at the scene reported that the strike also caused minor damage to the exterior of two other buildings in the area.
Firefighters rushed to the five-star hotel and quickly contained the ensuing blaze, which only managed to damage the hotel’s facade.
In the afternoon, the US Embassy noted that government personnel had been moved from hotels and confirmed that the Crowne Plaza Bahrain had been hit, resulting in injuries.
“The US Embassy in Bahrain is tracking confirmed reports the Crowne Plaza hotel in Manama was struck on March 1, resulting in injuries,” the embassy said, in a statement.
“We advise US citizens in Bahrain that hotels might be a target for future attacks, and encourage US citizens to avoid hotels in Manama.”
When reached, Crowne Plaza Bahrain management declined to comment on the situation, however award-winning general manager Charbel Hanna was seen at the site inspecting the damage.
Later in the day, the hotel confirmed that its evening ghabga and iftar events were cancelled until further notice.
Iranian strikes in the past two days have had a devastating impact on the hospitality sector during Ramadan – which is usually one of the busiest months of the year for four- and five-star hotels, with daily iftar and ghabga buffets often sold out.
The Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay and Sheraton Bahrain revealed that their iftar and ghabga would not be taking place yesterday evening.
Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention and Spa noted that its Khaimat Al Khaleej Ramadan Tent would be closed yesterday evening.
The InterContinental Bahrain hotel also closed its Regency Tent for both Iftar and Ghabga. “We truly appreciate your understanding and look forward to welcoming you soon,” the hotel added, on its social media.
The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain only served iftar and cancelled its ghabga in light of the circumstances.
Meanwhile, the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority also announced that all Ramadan Nights activities have been suspended until further notice.
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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