Kingdom expects to attract 2.2 million visitors in 2020

Bahrain has given Manama a brand new identify and logo to celebrate its designation as the “Capital of Arab Tourism” for 2020. Manama was chosen as the “Capital of Arab Tourism for 2020” during the 22nd session of the Arab Ministerial Council for Tourism held in Al Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, which also follows its designation as the Capital of Arab Tourism in 2013.

Home to countless tourist attractions as well as three Unesco World Heritage Sites, the current honour is expected to drive Bahrain’s prospects further in the global tourism sector. Chief Executive Officer of BTEA, Nader Al Moayyed, said the Kingdom now expects 2.2 million visitors in 2020, an equivalent increase of 5 per cent.

“Besides, we seek to increase the total number of nights spent by tourists by 15.8 million 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.

Citing the immense potential for further growth and development in the upcoming period in the Arab market, he said BTEA will dedicate its efforts to put an integrated calendar to attract tourists from neighbouring countries.” Events and annual festivals will be hosted throughout the year to attract a larger number of visitors from inside and outside the Kingdom.

The new identity and logo unveiled officially yesterday is the first step in this direction. The logo, displayed on the side of the Fourth Seasons Bahrain Bay during the New Year’s Eve celebrations, includes intertwined triangles that combine the prominent elements and iconic landmarks of Bahrain.

The logo combines Kingdom’s flag, a sail symbolising Bahrain’s maritime history, and the Bahrain World Trade Centre (WTC) representing the modern-day presence and prosperous future. Red colour represents Bahrain, while yellow symbolises the sand and blue represents the WTC.