The Place To Be: The Resurgence of the Tourism Industry in Bahrain
Bahrain’s National Tourism Strategy:
Once a hidden gem, Bahrain has emerged as a premier destination for international travelers. The Persian Gulf Island oasis is open to tourists looking for a unique and beautiful vacation and businesses looking to host international events. The Kingdom’s ambitious national tourism strategy, launched in 2022, has fueled impressive growth. With ancient heritage sites, modern luxuries, world-class events, beautiful facilities, and stunning beaches, Bahrain offers something for every kind of traveler. As Bahraini officials continue to elevate the country’s global profile, official data shows a 13% rise in tourism revenue and a 20% increase in visitor numbers from 2023 to 2024.
In 2021, Bahrain’s Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority announced the National Tourism Strategy during a press conference. The strategy aims to diversify business and recreational tourism and increase the Kingdom’s GDP.
The Kingdom built the national tourism strategy from its COVID-19 Economic Recovery Plan. With all Bahrain has to offer, efforts to promote tourism, attract and organize exciting experiences, and invest in Bahrain’s vibrant hospitality scene were immediately underway.
The strategy relies on seven critical pillars that make for a booming tourism industry:
Marine and waterfront attractions
Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions, and business
Sports and Recreation
Culture and Heritage
Leisure and entertainment
Media and film
Medical and well-being
Beyond the impressive growth in tourism, awards granted to the Bahrain international airport demonstrate an elevated traveling experience. During the Skytrax World Airport Awards Bahrain took home the title as the World’s Cleanest Airport, Middle East’s Cleanest Airport, and World’s Best Airport. During the same ceremony Bahrain ranked third in passport services. Additionally, the Bahrain international airport received the Airport Service Quality Award for Best Airport at Arrivals globally by Airports Council International. From landing in Bahrain to departure, visitors
Why Visit Bahrain?
Bahrain’s rich history and culture enhance the island’s natural beauty. Once at the heart of the first civilization in the Arabian Peninsula, Bahrain’s heritage dates back over 4,000 years to the early Bronze Age. Its legacy of trade and industry lives on today through well-preserved historical sites and the enduring traditions of the pearling industry.
From food, to sightseeing to shopping, and adventure, Bahrain celebrates its commitment to peaceful, diverse coexistence and innovative creativity. Bahrain’s population is religiously and ethnically diverse. The primary language is Arabic. However, most people are bilingual and speak English. While tradition is widely celebrated through art, clothing, and daily life, many people and places reflect a modern and Western lifestyle. Bahrain welcomes international investment and trade, building strong capacity to host international business travelers. This blend of tradition, history, and culture renders Bahrain accessible and fascinating for global audiences.
The National Tourism Strategy at Work – Three Featured Attractions
Beaches and Resorts
Bahrain offers the best of both worlds—whether you’re seeking cultural discovery or simply looking to relax and recharge. As an island nation, Bahrain is home to beautiful beaches that are central to its appeal. Under the National Tourism Strategy, the Kingdom has committed to preserving its coastline, enhancing waterfront spaces, and developing resorts for both tourists and local residents to enjoy.
Popular destinations like the Al Ghous Waterfront, Bahrain Bay Beach, and Qalali Waterfront provide scenic spaces to unwind and connect with nature.
For a luxury getaway, visitors can book a stay at the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort. Designed to highlight the West Coast’s stunning shoreline, the resort offers state-of-the-art amenities and breathtaking coastal views from every private room.
Both the development of beach destinations and the Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort are part of the National Tourism Strategy, ensuring visitors can fully enjoy the natural beauty Bahrain has to offer.
Al Dana Amphitheatre
Since debuting its first entertainment lineup in 2021, Al Dana Amphitheatre in Manama, Bahrain, has become a premier tourist destination. The open-air venue accommodates up to 10,000 guests and offers a memorable experience under the stars. With state-of-the-art technology and a truly unique setting, it has welcomed some of the world’s top entertainers to its stage.
Upon arrival, guests are greeted by a vibrant plaza featuring a variety of food, beverage, and retail options to enjoy before the show begins. In addition to the main stage, Al Dana Amphitheatre offers equally striking spaces ideal for more intimate events and performances.
The Amphitheatre has played a key role in advancing the goals of Bahrain’s National Tourism Strategy. It stands as an exciting addition to the Kingdom and a thriving hub of creativity for the people of Bahrain. The venue continues to host thrilling events, chart-topping performers, and visitors from around the world.
Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre in Sakhir
In 2022, the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibition Authority (BTEA) unveiled the innovative new Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre (IECC) in Sakhir. Since its opening, the center has attracted a wide range of public and private events for both local and international audiences. Spanning 95,000 square meters, the venue features 10 exhibition halls, cutting-edge presentation technology, a tiered auditorium that seats 4,000, VIP chambers, and a 250-seat restaurant. The center is fully equipped to host events of any scale.
Complementing its expansive event capacity, the center features picturesque architecture infused with Arabic artistry seamlessly woven into its design. The venue attracts a diverse mix of business travelers and tourists, drawn by its distinctive exhibitions and dynamic programming. From weddings to global trade shows, the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre hosts a wide variety of events that contribute to Bahrain’s title as a prime tourist destination.
Visit Bahrain!
The success of the National Tourism Strategy has positioned Bahrain as a leading global travel destination, drawing a record number of visitors to the Kingdom. This growing tourism sector brings renewed energy and excitement to communities across Bahrain and strengthens the local economy, supports small businesses, and creates meaningful job opportunities for Bahraini citizens. From its rich cultural heritage to modern attractions, luxury resorts, and stunning natural landscapes, Bahrain offers something for every traveler. As you plan your next vacation or international business event, explore all this vibrant island nation has to offer—you may discover your new favorite destination.
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