Scottish hotelier visionary returns to Bahrain

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Report by Ashen Tharaka

Renowned Scottish hotelier Gordon Campbell Gray, known for his contributions to luxury hospitality worldwide and his vision behind The Merchant House in Bahrain, recently returned to the Kingdom. In an interview with The Daily Tribune, Mr. Gray shared his unique journey, industry insights, and future plans. Driven by a love for design and personalized service, Mr. Gray founded CampbellGray Hotels in 1996.

His vision manifested in beautiful, small-scale properties throughout the UK, Lebanon, and Antigua. Each hotel reflects Mr. Gray’s distinctive aesthetic and commitment to quality. The Merchant House in Manama stands as both a culmination of Mr. Gray’s legacy and a glimpse into the future of hospitality.

This intimate property embodies his belief in sustainability and locally-focused experiences.

“My desire was to be an architect,” Mr. Gray reveals, “but fate intervened. One day, while sitting with my aunt at a London hotel, the idea struck me—the hospitality industry was my calling.” This pivotal moment launched a remarkable career, leading Mr. Gray to gain invaluable experience at some of the world’s most prestigious hotels. Manama holds a special place in Mr. Gray’s heart. He described his initial vision, stating, “I wanted to create something unique and boutique in a vibrant city, and Manama fit the bill perfectly.”

He expressed his appreciation for the city’s energy and the Merchant House’s success over the past five years. Looking ahead, Mr. Gray revealed, “We are actively seeking new opportunities in Bahrain.”

He kept the details close to his chest but emphasised the importance of collaboration, stating his gratitude for the government’s support for investment ventures.

Optimistic about the future, Mr. Gray expressed his belief in Bahrain’s immense potential to grow its hospitality industry. He stressed the importance of “opening the market to potential investors” and conveyed his confidence in Bahrain’s potential to become a prominent player in the global hospitality sector, ultimately contributing to the Kingdom’s economic growth.