Tourism projects in Bahrain are worth BD136 million
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com
The implementation of tourism projects, whose total value is estimated at BD136 million, will continue in earnest despite the raging pandemic. This was emphasised recently by Industry, Commerce and Tourism Minister Zayed bin Rashid Al Zayani who said that the government is committed to improving the performance of the tourism sector to help the national economy.
In response to parliamentary questions from Representative Khaled Bouanag, the Minister admitted that the pandemic had affected the financial performance of the Bahrain Tourism Authority (BTA) which is self-financing and based on the revenues it collects.
He pointed out that tourism income in 2015 was equivalent to 3.4% of the GDP. By the end of 2019, it reached 6.8% with tourism income reaching BD1.5 billion.
Minister Al Zayani noted that the move to stop charging tourism fees from the first quarter of 2020 until the end of this year’s first quarter had cost the government BD15 million.
He said the reclamation work and the laying of the foundation stone for the Galali Coast project will start soon. In turn, MP Bouanag confirmed that tourism projects will increase revenues, as there are many projects being implemented, stressing that the Minister’s answer was impressive and that tourism projects will stimulate the economy.
Work shifts to high gear
Minister Al Zayani said that the construction works at the Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre in Sakhir, which receives the highest funding, will be completed and ready by May next year. The Centre is projected to be the largest in the Middle East. Despite the pandemic, the overall construction work has shifted to high gear.
The foundations of the exhibition halls, central foyer and service buildings have been completed and the concrete work for the upper floors have reached various stages. The project represents a unique architectural addition and is coherent with the Bahrain International Circuit in a way that enhances tourism in Bahrain.
It will be a major boost in attracting international events that will support investments and the economy in Bahrain in a way that serves the Kingdom and enhances its status locally, regionally, continentally and globally.
The project will place Bahrain at the forefront of distinguished countries in this field because of its high specifications that are commensurate with global requirements, which will have a significant positive impact in promoting the Kingdom of Bahrain in line with its Vision 2030.
It would constitute a remarkable model for hosting international conferences, exhibitions and events thanks to its advanced infrastructure equipped with the latest technology and services and in accordance with the highest international standards in the field of exhibition industry.
Likewise, the centre will be a catalyst for many sectors to meet the needs of tourism in order to diversify sources of income and achieve the wise visions of His Majesty the King.
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