Dubai International Capital’s (DIC) majority-owned Ishraq Gulf Real Estate Holding Company and IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group), on Monday announced the opening of the Holiday Inn Express Bahrain. With over 2,100 hotels worldwide, Holiday Inn Express is one of the fastest growing hotel brands in the world. The 274-room hotel, which cost $40 million to build, marks the debut of the brand in Bahrain.  The hotel is strategically situated on Exhibition Avenue, minutes away from Bahrain International Airport, the King Fahd Causeway, Bahrain Financial Harbour, diplomatic missions and the shopping district. Holiday Inn Express Bahrain has a unique operating model that addresses the needs of price-conscious business and leisure travellers seeking quality accommodation at affordable rates. The hotel features a 24-hour self-service business centre, free high speed internet connection, gym, the Great Room restaurant, 24-hour kiosk and lounge bar and has been given a local ‘four star’ rating. Maissan AI Maskati, Chairman, Ishraq Gulf Real Estate Holding and Managing Director, Private Equity, Dubai International Capital commenting on the launch said:  “We are confident that the limited service offer will be extremely popular in Bahrain.  There are currently few options in Manama for price-conscious business and leisure travellers seeking ultra-modern accommodation at affordable rates and strategically located in the heart of the central business district community.” Holiday Inn Express Bahrain is operated by Ishraq Hospitality Management, a subsidiary of Ishraq Gulf Real Estate Holding Company, under a franchise agreement with IHG.  Luca De Stefano has been appointed General Manager in charge of a team of 70 employees. Pascal Gauvin, IHG’s Chief Operating Officer, for India, Middle East and Africa  said: “Holiday Inn Express is going from strength to strength across Asia and the Middle East. Following our recent brand launch in Thailand, we’re thrilled to see the brand open up in Bahrain, just shortly before we launch in India later this year. As Bahrain’s first limited service hotel, and with the Ishraq management team behind it, we’re confident Holiday Inn Express Bahrain will be a great success.” From gulftoday