One of Bahrain's most famous hotels celebrated its 40th anniversary in style last week with a banquet and ceremony.

Gulf Hotels Group chief executive officer Aqeel Raees said: "Being in business and continually expanding is a great achievement and I have been fortunate enough to be associated with the company for a large proportion of these exciting years."

Gulf Hotels Group, known previously as Bahrain Hotels Company, began its activities in December 1967.

During the last 40 years, its growth has been extraordinary, from a 130-room hotel on reclaimed land to becoming the largest five-star hotel on the island.

Mr Raees added: "As the only independent operator amongst our fellow competitors, we have witnessed the development and growth of the kingdom and have always managed to adapt and keep abreast of the latest trends to ensure that the hotel has remained at the forefront of the hospitality industry."