The second edition of ‘Hurafuna’ Handicrafts Festival was launched yesterday by the Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism, Zayed bin Rashid Al Zayani, at Bab Al Bahrain.

The event will run for a period of one week until April 18.

The inauguration was held in the presence of the chief executive officer of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, as well as representatives from the authority and members of the media.

“This event comes in line with BTEA’s strategy to highlight the Kingdom’s tourism infrastructure and offering which is aimed at attracting tourists and visitors from all over the world. The strategy implemented by the Authority also aims to develop the old Manama Souq and further enhance its position as a commercial and touristic hub both on a regional and international level. Manama Souq is one of the key locations in Bahrain that attracts Formula One visitors,” said Al Zayani.

The Minister also praised BTEA’s efforts to support the local handicrafts industry by showcasing and promoting the Bahraini talents.  
Further commenting on the launch of ‘Hurafuna’, Shaikh Khalid said: "We decided to host this event during the Formula One Season to introduce and promote our handicraft industry to tourists from the region and around the world. Hurafuna is a unique family that appeals to the entire family.”

"The authority has always paid great attention to supporting Bahraini craftsmen and promoting their abilities and skills in order to enhance their contribution. Also, we have launched a training program for artisans along with the seal of excellence that will be used for high quality Bahraini crafts in order to protect them from counterfeit products."

The launch of the handicrafts festival follows the success of the first edition that was held last year and reiterates BTEA’s commitment to enhancing the traditional handicrafts in the Kingdom and in preserving this skill for future generations by further developing the local craftsmanship and providing them with a platform to showcase their handmade goods.

More than 18 local craftsmen will be participating in the festival, showcase the local handicrafts to visitors who will get the opportunity to purchase traditional products such as hand-weaved baskets, traditional musical instruments and wooden boxes, pottery, model ships and much more.

The festival will also include live performances by traditional Bahraini bands, which will create a unique atmosphere and attract visitors while introducing them to the local heritage.

The ‘Hurafuna’ Handicrafts Festival is expected to draw in a large audience, especially seeing the increase in the number of tourists coming in from the region and the rest of world. The festival will also position the kingdom as a distinctive family tourism destination that offers unique local goods and attractions. The event will be open to the public free of charge. - TradeArabia News Service