Bahrain plans to attract 12.2 million visitors this year, an increase of five per cent, as part of an ambitious tourism plan.

Details of the tourism projection for 2020 were revealed yesterday by Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) chief executive Nader Al Moayyed, who said plans were also underway to increase the period of stay of visitors to the country.

He said the authority plans to launch the 2020 calendar of events and festivals with a renewed theme, which aims to attract a larger number of visitors.

It comes as the new identity and logo for Manama’s selection as the Capital of Arab Tourism for 2020 was revealed.

The logo comprises intertwined triangles that combine the prominent elements and iconic landmarks carefully chosen to signify the various elements of the country.

This includes the national flag, a sail symbolising the ancient maritime history, and the Bahrain World Trade Centre, representing its modern day presence.

“We aim to strengthen and develop intra-tourism between the Arab and international countries and its people through promoting the uniqueness of the Kingdom of Bahrain, which offers both rich historical offerings and modern city life,” said Mr Al Moayyed.

“We also strive to increase tourism numbers and expect to attract 12.2m visitors in 2020, an equivalent increase of 5pc.

“In addition, we seek to increase the total number of nights spent by tourists by 15.8m nights, an equivalent increase of 15pc compared to 2019, as well as increase the average length of stay to 3.5 nights per tourist, an equivalent increase of 3pc compared to 2019,” he added.

The selection of Manama as the Capital of Arab Tourism for 2020 was announced during the 22nd session of the Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism, which was held in Saudi Arabia last month.

Manama was previously given the title in 2013.

“The Arab markets have immense potential for further growth and development,” added Mr Al Moayyed.

“And in the upcoming period BTEA will dedicate its efforts to put an integrated calendar as we aim to attract tourists from neighbouring countries, thereby further increasing (the tourism) contribution to the national economy.”

The GDN previously reported that Bahrain has set itself a target of growing tourist numbers to 14.6m by 2022 and increasing the number of tourism nights spent in Bahrain to 15.9m.

Manama was previously named the Capital of Arab Women for 2017 by the Arab League’s Arab Women’s Committee, while Muharraq was chosen as the Capital of Islamic Culture 2018 by the Islamic Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation because of its significant contribution to the preservation of Arab and Islamic culture.

 

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