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Bahrain, an archipelago in the Persian Gulf, is witnessing a significant boost in its inbound tourism, thanks to its rich cultural heritage and modern attractions. The Kingdom offers a blend of ancient and contemporary experiences, from the historic Bahrain Fort and the traditional Manama Souq to the ultramodern Bahrain International Circuit and sprawling shopping malls. Bahrain, has been officially designated as the GCC Tourism Capital for 2024, along with an easy visa free policy for countries, signifies a major milestone in Bahrain’s journey to becoming a premier global tourist destination.

Tourists can explore the natural beauty of the Al Areen Wildlife Park and the serene Tree of Life, or indulge in water sports along its pristine beaches. With its welcoming visa policies and year-round warm climate, Bahrain is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers seeking a unique blend of history, culture, and leisure. Bahrain, an island country in the Arabian Gulf, consists of 50 natural and 33 artificial islands.

It boasts a growing Travel & Tourism sector, anticipated to reach a revenue of US$159.00m by 2024 and a compound annual growth rate of 5.42% through 2028, culminating in a market volume of US$196.40m. The primary segment in this market is the Package Holidays, projected to achieve US$58.07m by 2024.

As part of its economic recovery strategy initiated in 2021, Bahrain aims to boost tourist numbers to 14 million by 2026, increase the average daily expenditure to BHD74.8 ($198), and extend average stays to 3.5 days. This initiative mirrors Saudi Arabia’s ambitious National Tourism Strategy under Vision 2030, which aims to draw 100 million visitors annually by 2030, enhance tourism’s GDP contribution to 10 percent, and generate a million new jobs.

Forecasted to attract approximately 14 million visitors by 2028, Bahrain expects a significant uptick in tourist arrivals from about 12.5 million in 2023. Tourism revenues are predicted to climb from $3.1 billion in 2023 to $3.6 billion by 2028. Bahrain’s ambitious plan targets 14.1 million annual visitors by 2026, aiming to boost the tourism sector’s GDP share to 11.4%. In 2022, the nation welcomed 9.9 million tourists.

Mr. Anup Keshan Editor in Chief At Travel and Tour World, claims “The Gulf island nation has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to bolstering its tourism infrastructure and diversifying its offerings, making it an increasingly attractive leisure and holiday destination for international travelers. Leveraging its rich cultural heritage, captivating natural landscapes, and strategic geographical location, Bahrain is well-positioned to capitalize on the anticipated post-pandemic recovery in the global travel and tourism industry.”

List of Visa Free Countries

• Kuwait
• Oman
• Saudi Arabia
• United Arab Emirates

Bahrain’s Economic Growth and Tourism Milestone

Bahrain’s GDP growth rates were 4.9% in 2022, 2.6% in 2023, with forecasts of 3.6% in 2024 and 3.2% in 2025. This steady economic growth highlights the resilience and potential of Bahrain’s economy, which is increasingly diversifying and expanding its tourism sector.

In a significant milestone for its burgeoning Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, Bahrain has won the bid to host the 93rd Global Association of the Exhibition Industry UFI Global Congress. This prestigious event is expected to attract global attention, bringing numerous business travelers and boosting tourism. It underscores Bahrain’s growing reputation as a premier destination for international events, contributing to its vibrant tourism landscape and economic development.

Meeting and Events Venue in Bahrain:

The Bahrain Convention & Exhibition Centre in Manama is a premier Middle Eastern venue for conferences, exhibitions, and events, covering 145,000 square meters. It features 10 exhibition halls with 95,000 square meters of space, 50 meeting rooms, and a large conference room for 4,000 delegates. Amenities include high-tech audiovisual equipment, on-site catering, business centers, and VIP lounges. Strategically located 10 km from Bahrain International Airport and near luxury hotels, it offers parking for 5,000 vehicles. Hosting events like the Bahrain International Airshow and Jewellery Arabia Exhibition, the center is a key hub for regional business and cultural exchanges.

Prominent Airport of Bahrain:

Bahrain International Airport serves as the primary portal to the Kingdom of Bahrain, facilitating both passenger and cargo traffic. As Gulf Air’s main hub, the airport sees a diverse array of over 30 airlines. The airport, identified by the IATA code BAH, is prominently featured offers details on various airlines operating from this hub. Key players at this airport include United, Air Canada, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Airlines. The busiest routes from Bahrain include flights to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with 1155 and 902 weekly flights respectively.

Bahrain International Airport welcomed an impressive 8.7 million passengers in 2023 and is anticipating a groundbreaking 8.2 million passengers for 2024.

The first quarter of 2024, a peak travel season for Bahrain, saw 2,310,786 passengers, an 11% increase from the same period last year. The inclusion of Eid Al-Fitr and Eid Al-Adha holidays is expected to further boost numbers for the first half of the year.

Bahrain International Airport serves as the main hub for Gulf Air, Bahrain’s national flag carrier, which conducts over 2,270 monthly flights to 60 destinations across 28 countries in Africa, Asia, and Europe. The airport also supports the operations of 27 other airlines.

Gulf Air has broadened its network by adding Guangzhou and Shanghai as new destinations, with flights commencing in May 2024. Moreover, the airline has introduced a new route from Bahrain to Munich, starting July 1, with four weekly flights.

Airline in Bahrain:

Gulf Air, Bahrain’s national airline established in 1950 as one of the Middle East’s pioneering commercial carriers, now operates as a significant international airline with services to 50 destinations across 28 countries on three continents. Recently, Gulf Air introduced direct flights from Bahrain to Munich, Germany, enhancing its European network by providing a direct link to this major city starting July 1.

Bahrain’s inbound tourism sector is poised for a robust resurgence in 2024. Industry experts project a promising outlook for Bahrain’s inbound tourism in the coming years, as the country’s strategic initiatives to enhance visitor experiences and strengthen marketing efforts continue to bear fruit.

Unveiling the Grandeur of Bahrain’s Hotels

Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain beams with cultural pride as the Writers Lounge’s ceiling showcases Arabic calligraphy from renowned local poet Ahmed Mohammed Al Khalifa. This decor pays homage to Bahrain’s rich cultural tapestry in this luxurious setting.

In the heart of Manama, The Merchant House emerges as Bahrain’s premier five-star boutique hotel. Positioned conveniently near Bab Al Bahrain, the gateway to the country’s largest souq, it contrasts modernity with the area’s historical essence.

The Gulf Hotel Bahrain Convention & Spa stands as a testament to Bahraini hospitality since 1969. With its timeless design featuring neutral colors and wood paneling, the hotel offers stunning views of Bahrain’s Grand Mosque, captivating tourists with both its vista and historical significance.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay dominates the skyline from its private island in Bahrain Bay. The striking H-shaped structure of metal and glass not only captivates visually but houses some of the most opulent accommodations in the nation.

Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa enjoys a prime location near the Bahrain International Circuit, blending Arabesque style with French hospitality. This resort becomes a hub of activity every March or April during the Bahrain Grand Prix.

The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain has been a pinnacle of luxury on the island since the early 1990s. Known for its exceptional service and sophisticated ambiance, it offers a beach club and various dining options, attracting both tourists and locals.

The Westin City Centre Bahrain connects directly to the country’s largest shopping mall, catering to those who find wellness in retail therapy, aligning with the brand’s wellness philosophy.

The Pearl Museum at Siyadi Majlis, recently named Best New Museum at Monocle Magazine’s Design Awards 2024, celebrates Bahrain’s pearling history. Located on the UNESCO-listed Pearling Path, it was once the residence of the island’s grand pearl merchants.

Bahrain’s Cultural and Recreational Highlights

Bahrain International Airshow (13, Nov2024): This biennial spectacle returns with over 180 companies and 100 static aircraft. It serves as a platform for the latest aviation innovations, complemented by seminars and workshops on market trends and technology.

Celebrate Bahrain Season (1-31 December 2024): This month-long festival marks Bahrain’s National Day with concerts, live shows, games, and dazzling firework displays. Special promotions in hotels and shopping centers enhance the festive atmosphere, appealing to all ages.

Bahrain Autumn Fair (January 2025): This annual consumer extravaganza showcases products ranging from fashion to electronics, brought by local and international exhibitors. Food stalls, live performances, and interactive activities add to the fair’s vibrant environment.

Cultural and Historic Attractions in Bahrain:

Bahrain Fort (Qal’at al-Bahrain): This UNESCO World Heritage site, also known as Qal’at al-Bahrain, offers a window into Bahrain’s storied past. Optimal visiting months are November through March.

Al Fateh Grand Mosque: Known for its magnificent dome and tall minarets, the mosque is a splendid example of Islamic artistry, adorned with Arabic scripts and detailed mosaics. Best visited from October to April.

Amwaj Islands: These upscale man-made islands feature luxurious residences, pristine beaches, and diverse dining venues.

Juffair: This contemporary area blends modern skyscrapers with historic elements like traditional Bahraini houses and wind towers. It’s a year-round destination.

Bahrain World Trade Center: Situated in the capital, Manama, this iconic building, resembling enormous sails, reflects local architectural traditions.

Here are some other tourism sites in Bahrain:

• The Lost Paradise of Dilmun Water Park
• Bahrain National Museum
• Al Dar Islands
• The Lagoon Park
• Busaad Art Gallery

Top Activities in Bahrain:

• Arabian Sunset Horse Riding & Stable Tour
• Bahrain City and Desert Tour
• Half-Day Desert Tour
• Discover Sailing
• Archaeological Tour Bahrain
• Pearl Diving
• Scuba Diving