Bahrain, Japan explore tourism opportunities

TDT | Manama                                                          

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Reported by Julia Cassano

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) has extended an invitation to renowned Japanese restaurants and hotels to consider opening their branches in the Kingdom.

The development came during a week-long visit by a top-level Bahraini delegation to Japan, the world’s third-largest economy, aimed at promoting the Kingdom as a global tourist hub.

The move is aimed at boosting the country’s tourism and hospitality industry, which has been a key contributor to the country’s economy. The Bahraini delegates were led by the Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism, Zayed bin Rashid Alzayani, and supported by Noor bint Ali Al Khulaid, Minister of Sustainable Development.

Their visit which began on the 5th of May will conclude today. Dr Nasser Qaedi, CEO of BETA, said they held multiple meetings with senior Japanese officials in the tourism, hospitality, entertainment, and trade and industry sectors, as well as with managers of prominent Japanese restaurants and hotels.

Meetings were also held with Japanese jewellery associations and businesses to encourage their participation in shows and expos in Bahrain. Bahrain aims to increase the contribution of tourism to its GDP and attract more visitors from around the world, particularly from East Asia, as part of its 2022-2026 plan.