BAHRAIN is perfectly poised to host the region’s next biggest theme park, according to leading consultant.
Its market has “grown organically” over the years and has managed to maintain its uniqueness thereby developing a strong foundation for potential entertainment projects worth millions of dinars.
International Expo Consults chief executive Sharif Rahman told the GDN that Bahrain could also easily tap into an emerging market of gaming conventions that caters to “digital natives” and the young generation.
The consultancy is organising DEAL Middle East, the region’s largest trade event for theme parks and amusement industries that is set to be held in Dubai April next year.
“If you look at the current scenario, Bahrain is already known for its Formula One Grand Prix and there are several water parks in Bahrain, like the Lost Paradise of Dilmun waterpark and Wahooo among others,” said Mr Rahman.
“This is in addition to the in-house family entertainment zones within the malls.
“From a gaming concept point of view, there could be a new trend that will catch up in Bahrain and that would be the virtual reality and immersive gaming zones.
“People want games that engage them. Young adults especially are now looking for some unique entertainment ideas and the gaming manufacturers are constantly developing such concepts keeping these tastes and preferences in mind.
“The research and development aspect of the industry is commendable and it is active 365 days of the year.
“We see a lot of trade visitors from Bahrain asking for these kind of gaming concepts during our show.”
He said Bahrain was also a choice destination due to the number of high-end hotels.
“Bahrain has grown organically over the years and maintained its core personality,” he explained.
“The country now connects all the touch points and surely makes it a great destination from the leisure and entertainment point of view.
“The country has all the top hotel brands including Four Seasons, Starwood, Marriott, Wyndham, Accor, and Fairmont among others.
“It has the waterparks and now the time is right to take it to the next level by developing a strong foundation for the upcoming digital natives and the young generation.”
Among those who could make a “difference in shaping Bahrain’s entertainment” sector are investors, tour operators, architects and local authorities.
“There is a tremendous scope for investors and stakeholders to jump into the amusement and entertainment bandwagon,” said Mr Rahman.
“There has been a noticeable increase in the number of young families that are residing in the region and Bahrain is poised aptly to deliver products and services for this key demographic.”
Last month the GDN reported on a proposed ban on outdoor family investment projects voted on by the Southern Municipal Council.
Roller-coasters and rides could be fitted inside an air-conditioned auditorium, resulting in increased costs but also increased profit, said council chairman Ahmed Al Ansari at the time.
However, Mr Rahman said the proposal was not a hindrance for investors because of the extremely hot climate in the GCC region.
“Developing indoor parks during summer when schools are off and its vacation time will entice more crowds to its themed offering,” he explained.
“This is also another driver for the retail sector.
“Investors are fully confident that spending that extra buck to maintain the climate will yield rich dividends with the popularity of indoor theme parks in the GCC region.
“The other advantage that indoor theme parks have is the scale of operations wherein it is much easier to change the concept than the outdoor counterparts.”
The 24th edition of Dubai Entertainment Amusement and Leisure Show (DEAL) Middle East, which will take place from April 9 to 11, is the largest amusement and leisure trade show in the world outside of America.
“Exhibitors at DEAL have (previously) signed multi-million dollar contracts during the three days of the show,” he said.
“We have been witnessing a great level of interest from several brands and theme park operators, who would like to move from one geography to another and replicate their business model.”
laala@gdn.com.bh
&uuid=(email))