Bahrain boosts GCC tourism

Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) has launched a new campaign targeting GCC travellers, backed by a summer calendar of entertainment, shopping and family-focused events across the kingdom.

 

The initiative includes the third Bahrain Summer Festival at Exhibition World Bahrain, concerts and theatrical performances in partnership with Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre, plus, shopping activations and sports events across malls and tourism destinations.

 

The campaign also comprises hotel offers and travel packages developed with tourism and hospitality partners, targeting short-haul and weekend travel demand from across the GCC.

 

Sara Ahmed Buhiji, Chief Executive Officer at BTEA, said: “This initiative reflects the BTEA’s continued efforts to strengthen Bahrain’s position as a preferred destination for GCC families and other visitors by offering a unique tourism experience that brings together entertainment, culture, sports, shopping, dining and family activities.”

 

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The tourism push comes as Bahrain expands its wider aviation and connectivity plans. Earlier this year, the kingdom launched its National Aviation Strategy 2026–2030, targeting expansion from 66 to 100 destinations by 2030 alongside a 52% increase in air connectivity.

 

At the strategy launch, Bahrain signed a partnership with boutique leisure airline Beond to establish a premium carrier in the kingdom, with plans to base up to 10 aircraft in Bahrain by 2030 targeting high-value leisure and business travellers. Bahrain International Airport also recorded its highest-ever passenger traffic in 2025 as the kingdom continued strengthening its regional aviation position.

 

The campaign follows the reopening of Bahrain’s airspace and the gradual resumption of Gulf Air services after regional disruptions linked to the Iran war earlier this year. In April, Bahrain also introduced an optional scheme allowing hotels, furnished apartments and licensed restaurants to defer first-quarter regulatory fees to support tourism businesses affected by the disruption.

For more information, visit www.btea.bh