Tourism & Retail

Benefitting from a diverse portfolio of tourist draws including UNESCO World Heritage sites, the popular Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix event and a variety of high-end retail developments and hotels, Bahrain’s tourism sector has been an economic success story in recent years. Visitor numbers, revenues and investments have been on an upwards trajectory since 2016, and authorities have intensified efforts to develop the sector, channeling billions of dollars into new infrastructure, including mixed-use developments, an expansive airport upgrade and a new convention centre. Although a recent surge of new hotel rooms has weighed on occupancy and room rates, the sector remains well positioned to continue on a strong growth path in 2019, with demand set to rise as the kingdom ramps up its international marketing activities.