Gulf Air, the national carrier of Bahrain, has launched two new routes connecting the UK to Singapore, with services departing from London Heathrow (LHR) and Manchester (MAN) via Bahrain (BAH). This expansion marks an important step in Gulf Air’s strategy to increase its presence in the Southeast Asian market while offering UK travelers new options for travel to Singapore, a hub of business, tourism, and culture in Asia. Both routes are operated by Gulf Air’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, ensuring a premium travel experience with advanced comfort features.
Route Details and Stopover
The new routes offer flights from both London Heathrow (LHR) and Manchester (MAN) to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) with a stopover in Bahrain, which serves as Gulf Air’s primary hub. The London route was officially launched on October 27, 2024, and operates with a stopover duration of approximately five hours in Bahrain. The Manchester service has similar timings, with a four-hour layover in Bahrain. Gulf Air’s stopover at Bahrain International Airport offers travelers the opportunity to explore the airport’s upscale lounges and amenities, adding convenience for those who wish to take a brief rest or experience Bahrain’s hospitality en route to Singapore.
Aircraft and Onboard Experience
Gulf Air has strategically chosen the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for these new routes, offering an upgraded passenger experience in both Business and Economy Classes. Known for its fuel efficiency and reduced carbon emissions, the Dreamliner is an ideal choice for the lengthy UK-Singapore route. With a range of over 14,000 kilometers, the 787-9 Dreamliner provides Gulf Air the flexibility to connect long-haul destinations while optimizing operational efficiency.
In Business Class, passengers enjoy spacious, fully lie-flat seats with direct aisle access, making it ideal for both business travelers and those seeking extra comfort on long-haul journeys. The Dreamliner also features enhanced in-flight entertainment options, high-quality dining services, and noise-reducing cabin technology, creating a quieter and more comfortable atmosphere throughout the flight. In Economy Class, the Dreamliner offers upgraded seats with generous legroom and an advanced entertainment system, providing comfort and convenience to all passengers.
Competitive Pricing and Booking Options
Gulf Air’s new service offers competitive ticket pricing, making it an attractive option for UK travelers seeking value without sacrificing quality. Economy class fares from London Heathrow to Singapore start at approximately £541, while fares from Manchester begin at around £556. Business class fares are also available, with additional amenities catering to premium travelers who prioritize comfort and exclusivity.
To cater to the diverse travel needs of passengers, Gulf Air provides flexible booking options, including stopover packages for travelers interested in exploring Bahrain as part of their journey. This flexibility appeals to travelers who wish to break up their journey, enjoy a brief stay in Bahrain, or take advantage of Gulf Air’s extensive Middle Eastern and Asian network before reaching their final destination in Singapore.
Gulf Air’s Strategic Expansion in Southeast Asia
The introduction of the London and Manchester to Singapore routes aligns with Gulf Air’s broader expansion goals, aiming to solidify its presence in key Southeast Asian markets. Singapore, known for its vibrant economy, strategic location, and renowned tourism appeal, is a pivotal destination for Gulf Air’s regional expansion. By connecting UK travelers to Singapore, Gulf Air taps into the high demand for business and leisure travel between Europe and Southeast Asia, positioning itself as a strong competitor in the long-haul travel market.
Additionally, Gulf Air’s extensive codeshare agreements with other airlines enhance connectivity for passengers, offering seamless transitions to regional destinations beyond Singapore. This expansion builds on Gulf Air’s ongoing commitment to broadening its network and providing passengers with more travel options to Asia’s most prominent destinations.
Bahrain’s Role as a Stopover Hub
Bahrain International Airport has seen substantial upgrades over recent years, making it a more attractive stopover option for international travelers. The airport now boasts luxury lounges, upscale dining options, and duty-free shopping experiences that reflect Bahrain’s culture and hospitality. Gulf Air’s stopover packages allow passengers to extend their layovers and explore Bahrain’s cultural landmarks, local cuisine, and historical sites.
For travelers with extended layovers, Gulf Air offers curated experiences within Bahrain, including city tours, visits to historical attractions like the Bahrain Fort, and traditional souks. This added offering creates an opportunity for Gulf Air to showcase Bahrain as a compelling destination on its own, while also providing UK travelers with a richer, more memorable travel experience.
Gulf Air’s Commitment to Sustainable and Quality Travel
The deployment of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for the UK-Singapore routes also reflects Gulf Air’s dedication to reducing its environmental impact. The Dreamliner is known for its 20% lower fuel burn and emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft, making it a fitting choice as Gulf Air works toward achieving its environmental sustainability goals.
With its advanced fleet and enhanced route options, Gulf Air is committed to delivering a superior travel experience that balances passenger comfort with sustainable practices. As international travel demand continues to rebound, Gulf Air’s focus on providing quality service with environmental responsibility aligns with the expectations of today’s travelers.
Enhancing Connectivity Between the UK and Singapore
Gulf Air’s launch of the UK-Singapore routes through Bahrain not only adds an exciting travel option for UK travelers but also strengthens Gulf Air’s role as a key connector between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. As Gulf Air continues to expand its network and improve connectivity, UK travelers can expect a range of flexible, high-quality options for their journeys to Asia’s premier destinations.
By combining strategic route expansion, modern aircraft, and an emphasis on premium passenger experience, Gulf Air is positioned to capture a growing segment of the long-haul travel market, providing UK travelers with a reliable and enjoyable path to Singapore and beyond.
