Bahrain to Host Several Tourism, Entertainment Events

A diverse array of tourism and entertainment programs and offerings will be organized in Bahrain as part of the "Manama the Capital of GCC Tourism for 2024" program. Tourism Minister Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi on Sunday unveiled the identity of "Manama the Capital of GCC Tourism for 2024", said a report in Bahrain News Agency.

The series of accompanying events will run until year-end, collaboratively organized by the Ministry of Tourism, the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), and several private sector tourism establishments. The unveiling took place at the outdoor courtyard at the Bahrain National Theatre, and was attended by dignitaries, members of the Board of Directors of the BTEA, and representatives from the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities.

Al Sairafi emphasized that the unveiling of the slogan heralds the commencement of an extensive calendar of tourism and entertainment events, poised to significantly bolster regional tourism by attracting a greater influx of tourists and visitors. She underscored that the celebration of 'Manama as the capital of GCC Tourism' throughout the current year epitomizes the kingdom's successful endeavor in prioritizing the tourism sector within its development agenda.

This recognition reflects its pivotal role in fostering sustainable development and expanding economic growth horizons. Furthermore, the minister highlighted the concerted efforts of the Ministry of Tourism, BTEA, and private sector partners in promoting this significant occasion, she said.

The Minister emphasized ongoing efforts to introduce specialized tourism packages tailored for citizens and residents of GCC countries, aimed at attracting a greater number of visitors through various channels, and stated that this occasion presents a unique opportunity to showcase the kingdom's role in fostering an integrated regional tourism ecosystem and fostering inter-GCC tourism.

On the sidelines of Manama being designated as the Capital of GCC Tourism 2024, the Kingdom of Bahrain's achievements in advancing the tourism landscape in the GCC region will be spotlighted. This aligns with Bahrain's Tourism Strategy 2022-2026, aimed at diversifying the tourism product and amplifying the sector's contribution to the national economy.

The selection of Manama as the GCC Tourism Capital for 2024 was made during the seventh meeting of tourism ministers from GCC countries, convened on October 5, 2023, in Jabal Al Akhdar, Oman. This designation is a testament to Bahrain's persistent efforts to promote GCC tourism and foster collaborative GCC initiatives in the tourism sector, the report said.