Mantis Keeps Building in Gulf as Demand Shrinks to Locals

Photo Credit: Basiqat by Mantis resort near Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. Mantis Collection Mantis Collection, half owned by Accor since 2018, is pressing ahead with its Gulf expansion plan despite the U.S.-Iran conflict, which has reshaped demand across its young portfolio. Its Bahrain resort shut completely at times during the war’s peak, then recovered quickly, while a new Saudi mountain resort is trading in line with expectations on domestic demand. Two upcoming openings remain on track despite procurement setbacks. “It would be naive to say the U.S.-Iran war hasn’t had an impact,” said Craig Erasmus, CEO of Mantis Collection. “Although the trends are positive, you need stability to return for a more diverse guest mix [to come back]. The region is very focused on the domestic market now.” The brand entered the Gulf last year with Hawar Resort by Mantis in Bahrain. It opened Gamra Mountain Resort by Mantis in Saudi Arabia’s Al Baha this year. Saij Mountain Lodge in Ras Al Khaimah and Basiqat by Mantis near Riyadh are ne