General Information » Economy » Tourism Developments

Tourism is an important and growing sector of the Bahrain economy accounting for 10 – 12% of GDP. Approximately five million visitors arrived in Bahrain in 2004; 80% of these came across the Saudi causeway and the number includes visitors from Saudi Arabia who make multiple trips during the year. Tourism falls into two main categories: middle- to high-end tourists from Europe and Asia who want a holiday in the sun in relative luxury, and short-term tourists from the region, particularly from Saudi Arabia.

Non-Arab tourists are few and far between and are mainly families or small groups. Backpackers and low-end holiday makers are rare in Bahrain. The second group comprises families who enjoy the relaxed atmosphere in Bahrain and groups who visit Bahrain for weekends to sample the entertainment and friendly environment. Tourists are catered for by Bahrain’s broad range of hotels ranging from relatively cheap guesthouses and apartments to world class hotels.

There are eight five-star hotels, 10 four-star, 20 three-star and over 40 one to two-star, where facilities are limited and pretty basic.

Tourism received a major boost with the opening of the Bahrain F1 Racetrack in 2004, the first ever in the region. Approximately 30,000 people attended the first Grand Prix with most of the foreign visitors coming from Europe. Needless to say, hotel prices skyrocketed, with most hotels only accepting bookings for a five-night F1 package at five or six times the normal rate.

Tourists are attracted to Bahrain for the weather, unique ambience (which is completely different from the average European package experience), diving and water sports, local culture and the relaxed friendly atmosphere. Bahrain also enjoys a comparatively liberal social climate (when compared to some other GCC countries), good shopping and minimal travel restrictions.

The growth of tourism in Bahrain is reflected in the number of multi-million dollar developments in the kingdom, with a large tourism component and the refurbishment and extension of many of the major hotels. It must be said, however, that Bahrain still hasn’t quite got the tourist bit right. Most of the major tourist attractions are woefully lacking in basic amenities such as guides, toilets, souvenir shops and refreshment facilities. The government has plans to combat these problems with training schemes. Further information on tourism in Bahrain can be found at www.bahraintourism.com.