Reema Lokesh – Bahrain
Bahrain is all set to attract the Indian traveller into the country and the obvious sign for the same is the reduction in visa fee from 25 Bahrain Dinar (BD) to five BD, which was announced three days ago. The tourism department, which is part of the Economic Development Board (EDB), has prepared a focused plan to offer the Indian clientele a comprehensive tourism product offering, both for the FIT as well as the MICE market.
Speaking to Express TravelWorld, Jerad Bachar, executive director, tourism and leisure, Bahrain EDB, stated, “Tourism is a big part of the economic growth of the region. It is the fastest growing sector and the EDB is responsible for product development and the tourism office is responsible for demand development. The reduction of visa fee clearly states our commitment toward the Indian market.”
Bahrain aims to offer the India market a niche tourism experience, providing a product portfolio of art, culture, shopping, history and nightlife. The Bahrain International Circuit proves to be a major attraction for Formula 1 sports enthusiasts. The aviation sector is also upgrading its current airport, getting it ready for future business and there are talks to increase air connectivity between India and Bahrain.
Bahrain also plays host to a 200-year-old Krishna temple, churches and other religious places of worship. From pearl diving experiences to its forts and museum, the region offers a new bouquet of experiential tourism. With a progressive and investment-friendly environment, the country is confident to bring in the right tourism clientele to experience a unique product in the GCC region.