Bahrain unveils new programme to boost tourism

The BTEA Inbound Travel Incentive Programme aims to foster collaborations between the government and the private sector

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) has announced a new programme designed to support the local tourism industry by incentivising travel and tour operators to attract inbound tourism to the kingdom.

The initiative was announced by BTEA deputy CEO Fatima AlSairafi, who highlighted the importance of collaborating with the private sector in order to boost the tourism potential of Bahrain. The session included a presentation by BTEA detailing the programme’s support, criteria and processes.

Alsairafi said: “The BTEA Inbound Travel Incentive Programme will surely help the tourism industry recover from the pandemic and is part of a broader effort to help reinvigorate tourism in Bahrain.”

Alsairafi added that the travel and tourism sector plays a vital role in creating jobs in Bahrain and driving significant economic activity and that through this initiative local travel and tour establishments can be activated to support inbound tourist travel.

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Commenting on the announcement, Ibn Firnas Travel & Tourism owner and managing director Fatima Ahmed said: “We’re very excited for this new initiative. It comes at a very critical time for the industry after a halt of activity because of the pandemic. This will definitely help boost inbound tourism in Bahrain.”

Visit Bahrain chief executive Ali Amralla added: “The new BTEA incentive programme will support local tour operators in promoting Bahrain as an ideal destination and will create a positive impact on increasing the number of tourists coming to Bahrain and the length of their stay.”