Fatima Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism, said Bahrain is continuing efforts to strengthen its position as a leading tourist destination through integrated policies that promote Arab tourism as a platform for cultural exchange and a key contributor to sustainable development.

Marking Arab Tourism Day, Minister Al Sairafi said that tourism has become an important means of highlighting cultural identity, supporting creative industries and fostering engagement between peoples, reported BNA.

She added that this reflects Bahrain’s commitment to developing a balanced tourism sector that brings together economic value with cultural and historical significance.

The Tourism Minister emphasised the importance of closer cooperation with international tourism organisations to share expertise and adopt best practice.

She noted that boosting intra-Arab tourism requires greater alignment in programmes, legislation and travel facilitation to increase regional travel and strengthen cultural and economic ties.

She also called for stronger joint Arab action to develop tourism and investment, attract Arab and international capital, and enhance the global competitiveness of the Arab tourism sector.

Minister Al Sairafi added that continued cooperation and the exchange of expertise among Arab countries, together with the development of innovative programmes that enhance the visitor experience, safeguard heritage and promote cultural identity, will contribute to advancing mutual understanding and sustainable development across the region.