Minister of Tourism Participates in Ministerial Roundtable at AIM Meeting in Abu Dhabi

TDT | Manama
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Her Excellency Fatima bint Jaffar Al-Sairafi, Minister of Tourism, emphasized that investment in the tourism sector is one of the fundamental pillars of supporting economic growth in the Kingdom of Bahrain. It constitutes as an effective economic tool that contributes to improving various economic sectors and creating new job opportunities, which benefits the national economy.

This came during her participation in the ministerial roundtable on "Investing in Tourism: Shaping Investment Opportunities through Policy Innovation," as part of the Annual Investment Meeting (AIM) 2025, organized by the World Tourism Organization in Abu Dhabi.

Al-Sairafi stated that the tourism sector is one of the most promising economic sectors in the region, and supporting tourism investment represents a fundamental pillar of sustainable development which contributes to strengthening the Kingdom of Bahrain's position as a leading global tourism destination.

Her Excellency added that the private sector in the Kingdom of Bahrain is a key partner in developing the tourism sector, while coordinating and cooperating to provide diverse tourism experiences that meet the needs and aspirations of tourists and visitors. She pointed out on the Kingdom's distinguished tourism infrastructure, including a diverse hotel portfolio that caters to a variety of tastes.

Al-Sairafi explained that 2024 witnessed the addition of some 4&5-star hotels, adding that the Kingdom of Bahrain is also expected to witness the opening of new 5-star hotels by 2026, reflecting the continued expansion of the hospitality sector. She emphasized that this expansion will strengthen the tourism and hotel sector in Bahrain, leading to increased tourism revenues and the creation of new job opportunities, in addition to, supporting SMEs by creating partnerships with local suppliers and contractors.

Her Excellency also noted that the Kingdom of Bahrain has achieved significant successes in supporting business tourism, (MICE), by attracting numerous major events and conferences, which contributes to strengthening its position as a distinguished destination for international events.

Al-Sairafi highlighted the importance of coordination between the Kingdom of Bahrain and regional and international tourism organizations, and enhancing joint Arab cooperation, which contributes to attracting tourism investments and developing the sector sustainably. She pointed out that this cooperation enhances tourism integration among Arab countries and increases inter-Arab tourism rates. She emphasized that Arab governments pay great attention to the tourism sector by providing incentives and grants to support it.

On the sidelines of the visit, Her Excellency the Minister of Tourism met with His Excellency Mr. Saleh Mohammed Al-Jaziri, Director General of Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi. They reviewed bilateral relations between the two countries and discussed ways of cooperation in areas of joint work related to encouraging investment in tourism and strategic projects.