Tourists from around the world got their first taste and feel of Bahraini culture at a special heritage tent set up by the Tourism Ministry at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC).
For many, it was their first visit to the kingdom and the booth set up on the sidelines of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix offered a curated sneak peek at local heritage and the opportunity to book tours with knowledgeable guides.
“We are delighted to be welcoming all these visitors, and inviting them to sample local karak, gahwa, halwa, dates, samboosa and other Bahraini treats,” 59-year-old Muharraq resident and tour guide Salem Rajab told the GDN, as his colleague Abdullah Alshameri poured tea for tourists nearby.
The tent also offered visitors a look at traditional basketweavers and their products, with 16-year-old Baqer Ahmed, a high school student at Al-Hedaya Al-Khalifa Secondary Boys School, nimbly working palm fronds into a basket.
There was a section where visitors could try on Bahraini and Arab fashions, like the ‘bisht’, which gained global popularity after Argentinian top footballer Lionel Messi donned one after winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final.
Arad resident Muntadher Abdulla, 19, who studies at Bahrain Polytechnic and also helps his father Ali Abdulla Ali run the Heritage Village in Arad, was on hand to help tourists and visitors try the clothes on.
Those fascinated by Arabic calligraphy could also have their name inscribed in the language by calligrapher and 49-year-old Arad resident Ali Ebrahim, who has been honing his art since the age of 10.
“Calligraphy is something I have always enjoyed and back in school, once teachers recognised my talent, I would be asked to write students’ names,” the retired banker reminisced.
“I am showcasing my craft for the first time at the BIC, although I have given several free courses to help young students get into the art form since I retired.”
Intrigued tourists got Mr Ebrahim to write their names on paper free of charge, while those interested in taking home a souvenir opted for a wooden sign, priced at BD4.
“This is our first time watching a Grand Prix in the Middle East, and it’s great to have a stall like this where we can explore the local culture and heritage,” father-daughter duo from the Netherlands Ronald and Noor Spijker added, as they held up their names inscribed in Arabic.
Outside the tent, fans of all ages could take their photo with a falcon and try their hand at oyster shucking.
The tent also offered Tourism Ministry and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority brochures which provided more information on the best attractions to visit around the kingdom.
Tour guide Nawal Hassan was delighted with the exposure that local tours got from the experience and looked forward to welcoming more travellers throughout the weekend.
naman@gdnmedia.bh
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