Tag Archives: BTEA

Sarah Ahmed Buhiji, Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), held a dialogue session with a group of young participants in the third edition of the “Future Bet” programme, organised by the Bahrain Institute for Political Development (BIPD). The BTEA CEO underscored that investing in human capital is among the Authority’s top priorities, noting that capacity-building and skills development form the foundation of any sustainable growth and qualitative transformation in the tourism sector. This, she said, is in line with the aspirations of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the goals of its comprehensive development process, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. As reported by Bahrain News Agency, during the discussion, Buhiji highlighted the role of BTEA in promoting both domestic and international tourism and in contributing to the growth of the national economy. She highlighted the Authority’s strategies to develop tourism infrastructure and organise major events and exhibitions, in addition to the sector’s active contribution in creating promising job and investment opportunities and supporting entrepreneurship. She emphasised the importance of involving youth in advancing the tourism sector and raising their awareness of the fruitful opportunities it offers for the future, noting that the Authority’s vision and future plans are aligned with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030. Buhiji noted that tourism is a key driver of comprehensive development, as it creates quality opportunities for citizens across various sectors, attracts local and foreign investments, and supports an integrated ecosystem encompassing hospitality, transport, retail, food and beverage, creative industries, and related services. She also discussed the objectives …

Wego partnered with Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) to spotlight the Kingdom of Bahrain as a premier travel destination. This collaboration aims to promote Bahrain’s unique cultural heritage, top attractions, and cutting-edge tourism innovations to global travelers. Bahrain, known as the “Pearl of the Gulf,” is an archipelago offering a rich blend of history, luxury, and modernity. Through this partnership, Wego will leverage its platform to highlight Bahrain’s iconic destinations, including the UNESCO-listed Qal’at al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort), the vibrant Bab Al Bahrain Souq, the stunning Al Dar Islands, and the world-famous Bahrain International Circuit, home of Formula 1 racing. Commenting on the partnership, Mamoun Hmidan, Chief Business Officer at Wego said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority to showcase the Kingdom’s unique offerings to our global audience. Bahrain is a treasure trove of cultural, natural, and modern attractions, and through this partnership, we aim to inspire travelers to explore this dynamic destination.” Travelers will also be introduced to Bahrain’s innovative tourism initiatives. The Kingdom is embracing cutting-edge technology, offering seamless digital travel experiences and sustainable tourism practices. From immersive virtual tours to smart city solutions enhancing visitor convenience, Bahrain is setting a benchmark in modern travel. Additionally, Bahrain’s commitment to eco-tourism is evident in its focus on preserving natural habitats like the unique Hawar Islands and offering experiences such as pearl diving and marine conservation tours. Maryam Toorani Director, Marketing and Promotion at Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority added: “This partnership with Wego allows us to reach thousands of travelers and highlight Bahrain as a must-visit destination. From its historical landmarks to its forward-thinking tourism innovations, Bahrain has something to …

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) is set to announce a series of groundbreaking initiatives aimed at solidifying Bahrain’s position as a premier global tourist destination. The declaration follows Bahrain’s remarkable achievement in Manama being chosen as the capital of Gulf tourism for the year 2024 during the 7th meeting of the ministers responsible for tourism in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The prestigious designation of “Manama” as the capital of Gulf tourism for 2024 is a testament to Bahrain’s exceptional contributions to the growth of Gulf tourism sector. The Kingdom of Bahrain’s foresight in recognizing tourism’s potential as a vital sector capable of driving economic growth and ensuring sustainable development played a pivotal role in securing this honour. Bahrain is committed to nurturing a thriving and dynamically expanding tourism sector, with the aim of not only enhancing its reputation as a prominent hub for regional and international tourists but also fostering stronger tourism cooperation within the GCC region. Dr. Nasser Ali Qaedi, CEO, Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) said, “We take immense pride in this achievement in the Kingdom’s tourism sector, which stands as a testament to a series of successful tourism endeavors at local, regional, and international levels. The Kingdom has positioned the tourism sector at the forefront of its developmental agenda. This strategic position acknowledges the sector’s pivotal role in driving sustainable development. Under this vision, substantial investments have been channeled into expanding tourism infrastructure, refining tourism services, and establishing high-quality facilities. These endeavors are aimed at attracting a greater influx of tourists worldwide.” Dr. Qaedi added, “Collaborating closely with its public and private sector partners, BTEA persistently crafts success stories, aiming to fulfill …

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) confirmed that all preparations are finalized with the Kingdoms tourism facilities to receive the inflow of visitors in the coming period while taking the necessary precautionary measures to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and resume economic and tourism activity. BTEA stated that it has prepared several initiatives and projects aimed at promoting family tourism, as Bahrain is an ideal tourist destination for the GCC families to spend holidays, due to the presence of many tourists and entertainment attractions. The authority affirmed that it expects an increase in the inflow of visitors soon from the various entry points to Bahrain, especially through King Fahd Causeway after raising the level of government health coordination between the various GCC countries to adopt vaccination and recovery certificates to ensure the entry of visitors smoothly. BTEA pointed out that it launched a campaign through social media platforms targeting visitors from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The campaign focuses on digital marketing through the BTEA account on Instagram and Twitter (tourismbh)  to showcase all tourism activities in addition to the new tourism facilities in Bahrain that were finalized  during 2020. BTEA stated that the COVID-19 pandemic affected the flow of tourists from GCC countries especially from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The authority prepared symbolic welcome events by illuminating the control tower on the King Fahd Causeway in addition to some major buildings in several streets of the Kingdom in red and green colors, with the campaign slogan displayed on billboards inside some commercial complexes and promotional activities around the Kingdom which includes the Bahrain Bay area from 17 to 23 May. Bahrain Tourism Authority affirmed that it has coordinated …

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) is set to launch its brand-new campaign #WeWillMeet; as a part of its efforts to increase the number of tourists coming into the Kingdom of Bahrain with a special focus on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia post COVID-19. The campaign, which will be spread over the span of a year, will be launched in three parts, which will first kick off with the ‘Inspirational’ phase connecting with followers digitally through interactive posts and live sessions, move on to the ’Encouragement’ phase which will focus on the promotion of the islands activities, and ends with the phase of ‘Transformation’ which involves face-to-face interaction with visitors once events are safe to host once again. “We wanted to launch a proactive campaign to increase the number of visitors coming into the Kingdom from all around the world and specifically target those in Saudi Arabia, which shapes a significant part of the total inbound tourism coming into Bahrain each year. Once the situation allows, we expect to attract more visitors as Bahrain has always been considered an ideal and convenient weekend getaway for Saudis due its close proximity to multitude of attractions and experiences we have to offer,” said Nader Al Moayyed, Chief Executive Officer of BTEA. “We opted for an end to end digital campaign, to not only target the masses that have shifted online as a result of the epidemic, but also to directly tap into a new segment and appeal to the millennials and Generation Z’s that are online,” Moayyed added.

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) has announced the cancellation of the second period of the Bahrain Food Festival, which was scheduled to be held between March 12 and March 23, 2020. This decision was taken as a result of the recent developments and necessary health precautions undertaken by the Government of Bahrain in accordance with international standards to contain the COVID-19 and to prevent its spread. The Kingdom has been praised by the World Health Organization for its approach in tackling the spread of the virus. BTEA extends its sincere thanks and gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of the first period of the festival, including participants, attendees and organisers.

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) participated in the 20th Saudi International Wedding Fair 2020, held from March 5-7, 2020 in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It is considered the ideal one-stop wedding event for couture, fashion and jewellery. The Bahraini pavilion, covered an area of 25 m2, included exhibitors from hotels including Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, Al Areen Palace & Spa Bahrain in addition to the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, Gulf Air. The 20th Saudi Wedding Fair 2020 was the largest bridal event in the industry across KSA and the GCC, provided participants with the opportunity to showcase their latest products and services in the wedding sector. The event provided an ideal platform for participants and visitors alike to meet and connect with renowned international companies, as well as network with VIPs. On this occasion, Dr. Ali Follad, Acting Director of Marketing and Tourism Promotion Directorate at BTEA, said, “We look forward to showcasing what the tourism industry has to offer those who want to host and celebrate their special occasions in Bahrain. Our participation comes in line with our efforts to participate in regional and international events as we strive to strengthen Bahrain’s position as a leading tourism destination in the region and further develop the local tourism sector.”

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) is set to host the second edition of its ‘Saturday Market’, which will be held every Saturday from 9 am to 12:30 pm and from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm starting from January 25 until March 22, 2020, in Bab Al Bahrain at the heart of the Manama Souq. During the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix 2020, the Saturday Market will be open to visitors for four consecutive days. With its main focus centered on hosting a market where craftsmen can showcase and sell their handicrafts products, the ‘Saturday Market’ is held at Bab Al Bahrain every winter with an aim of developing the handicrafts sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This year, the event will feature 40 craftsmen specialised in 25 crafts including basket weaving, traditional chests, wooden works, pottery, hand embroidery, henna design, dolls, carpets, cage-making, and crochet among others. In addition, the event will feature live traditional performances, traditional Bahraini food vendors, and activities and play areas for children. “With Manama being named the Capital of Arab Tourism for 2020, it is with great pride that we continue our efforts at BTEA to preserve these traditional professions for the future generations while developing the local tourism sector and increasing its contribution to the national economy,” said the Nader Al Moayyed, Chief Executive Officer of BTEA.

Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) revealed the new identity and logo of Manama as the “Capital of Arab Tourism for 2020″ following the announcement that was made during the 22nd session of the Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism. The Kingdom of Bahrain celebrated the beginning of 2020 with a spectacular fireworks show as part of the New Year’s Eve celebratory event organised by the BTEA. BTEA had organised a number of entertainment activities for visitors including a live performance by Majaz Musical Band, a ballet dancer performance on stilts ‘A Dance of Color’, in addition to the breathtaking musical aerial performance by the dancers and acrobats of SONIC as well as the live DJ and drumming with Sonic Snares from the United Kingdom. During the countdown, the identity and logo of Manama were revealed on the side interface of the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, which was shortly followed by a spectacular display of fireworks to mark the occasion.

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) organised a familiarisation trip for a delegation of nine women from renowned Saudi travel agencies and tour operators. Hosting the trip comes in line with BTEA’s efforts to showcase the Kingdom’s tourism facilities and attractions, as well as introduce visitors to its rich history with an aim to further develop the tourism sector and increase its contribution to the national economy. The familiarisation trip, held from October 3-5, 2019, was organised in collaboration with BTEA’s representative office in KSA. During the trip, the delegation met with local representatives from the tourism industry and were taken on several sightseeing tours in Bahrain. “KSA is considered one of the largest tourism markets across the region and visitors from KSA comprise a huge portion of tourists in Bahrain, holding 88 per cent of the market share. Since the start of this year, BTEA’s collaboration with Saudi travel agencies through its KSA representative office has resulted in attracting approximately 31,500 visitors in Q1 of 2019, a growth of 31 per cent, and BHD 11.9 million in total spending. In the first half of 2019, the total number of Saudi visitors amounted to 5.3 million, including business and project owners which contributes to supporting the local GDP,” said Dr. Ali Follad, Tourism Advisor at BTEA. Organising the familiarisation trip comes in line with the BTEA’s strategy to promote and develop the country’s tourism sector under the slogan of ‘Ours.Yours.’, which contributes towards Bahrain’s economy and the 2030 Economic Vision.