Bahrain has to build on and further develop its marine tourism industry in the next few years to cement its position as a regional hub, experts have said.

Such measures will not only benefit business in Bahrain but in neighbouring countries as well, said Knotika Holding chief executive officer Wael Juju.

'People in other countries will have easy access to business opportunities in Bahrain,' he said. Juju was speaking on the second day of the Bahrain Boat Show International at the Amwaj Marina, which will be open till Saturday.

'It is clear after two days that Bahrain is unique in that it is made up of several islands, giving it the biggest waterfront area in the GCC,' he said.

'This is in fact a natural selling point. Its proximity to its neighbouring countries means it should be a natural marine hub for industry and tourism in the region.' Juju said Bahrain was missing out by not taking advantage of this natural asset and utilising it to build a thriving tourism and leisure industry.

He said the show had attracted local and foreign exhibitors alike, bringing in new businesses, companies and brands to show them the potential of the Bahraini market.

'This show has highlighted and reinforced the lifestyle, which is the promise and unique selling point of investing in one of the properties in this multi-billion-dinar waterfront developments.'

The event has been supported by the Royal Navy, which will display water rescue demonstrations, helicopters as well as boats.

It also features several unique marine exhibits, including a Jetlef-Flyer - a recreational jetpack designed so that the wearer can literally fly with a three-dimensional degree of freedom over deep water.

Meanwhile, participants AJM Koohiji also organised a stunt, with ramps and jumps, demonstrating their range of jet skies available for purchase at the event.

The Amwaj Marina will host today the fishing competition the Knotika-AJM Kooheji Cup. A mix of entertainment are also being held, ranging from boats, marine sports, nautical toys, motorbikes, cars and helicopters.

Tickets are available on the door of the event and at Virgin Megastore at the City Centre, Lost Paradise of Dilmun, Arabian Taxis, Bahrain Media Services in the Almoayyed Tower, McDonalds, ZayZaytoon and Gloria Jeans Coffees.

The show is open everyday from 5pm to 11pm.

All children of 12 years and below must be accompanied by an adult and children under five can enter free of charge.-TradeArabia News Service