Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi took part in the 50th meeting of the Regional Committee for the Middle East of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) in Oman.
The meeting addressed the implementation of the action programme of the organisation during 2023-2024, as well as the priorities of the commission, which include medical tourism and investment in tourism projects.
The meeting also discussed the executive plan for the World Tourism Day celebrations for 2024, the arrangements for the 51st commission meeting and Jordan’s initiative to explore the Arab World (Arabi Trips).
The minister affirmed Bahrain’s efforts in strengthening the tourism sector through strategic investments, including the ‘Golden Licence’ and its support for entrepreneurs. She highlighted the kingdom’s selection to host the ninth UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism.
Ms Al Sairafi with Mr Al Mahrouqi
Ms Al Sairafi stressed the need to strengthen regional co-operation to align policies, promote tourism programmes and maximise common interests.
Ms Al Sairafi explained that choosing Manama as the Gulf Tourism Capital for the year 2024âwill be reflected in the entire Gulf region to launch integrated tourism packages exploring multiple destinations in the GCC.
Ms Al Sairafi separately met Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism Ahmed bin Aqeel Al Khatib and Salim bin Mohammed Al Mahrouqi, Omani Minister of Heritage and Tourism, on the sidelines of the UNWTO meeting and discussed ways to enhance co-operation.
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