Bahrain aims to reach 15m visitors by 2018

BTEA, Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority, aims to reach a number of more than 15m visitors by 2018 due to its special marketing campaigns. A new identity and a special rebranding are some of the special projects that will be implemented in order to reach its goals. More, the campaign is focusing on the four A’s – accessibility, attractions, accommodation and awareness – to drive the kingdom’s tourism sector towards further growth.

“Although Bahrain has a number of unique offerings for tourists, we noticed that tour operators around the world did not have enough information or packages to push holidaymakers to visit the island. These new representative offices would help bridge that gap and boost visitor numbers to the kingdom,” said Yousef AlKhan, director of marketing and tourism promotion at BTEA. This year, BTEA is taking a huge step forward by introducing its new brand ‘Ours.Yours.Bahrain’ at the World Travel Market in London this November.

“This is the first time we will be showcasing our new brand outside of the region. Ours.Yours.Bahrain embraces the generosity and hospitality of our people, which visitors will surely feel when they come to Bahrain. Through Brand Bahrain, we are hoping to place Bahrain on the world map by not only showcasing its authentic culture and heritage but also the harmonious blend of an old and modern, business-friendly world,” he tells TTN.

“We have a major campaign going on for the GCC which again covers our new identity as well as the events we have lined up for each month. This year we have an array of programs and we want to continue that going into next year as well, with a Shopping Festival set for January and a Food Festival coming up in February,” AlKhan says. “Bahrain has something for everyone. Top class hotels for families and visitors looking to enjoy luxury on the island; Shopping malls for those who love to shop till they drop; Racing at the Bahrain International Circuit and off-roading experiences for the adrenaline junkies, and much more that we are working on to boost visitor numbers.”