Bahraini tour guides to get priority under new regulation
The Tourism Ministry is drafting a new regulation to replace the 2005 rule, giving priority to Bahraini tour guides.
Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi confirmed the plan in a response to MP Mohammed Hussain Janahi, stating that the ministry is working with other government bodies to introduce incentives and simplify market entry.
A new training course, in collaboration with a local organisation, will focus on Bahrain's history and culture, prioritising Bahraini applicants. The ministry is also addressing concerns over foreign guides, setting limits and enforci n g a decision that bans unlicensed guides.
Minister Al Sairafi noted that while the tourism sector has seen staffing shifts, the ministry is promoting the hiring of locals, especially through Vatel Bahrain Tourism and Hospitality College, where 62% of graduates are Bahraini.
Although tourism businesses aren't currently required to hire Bahrainis, the minister emphasised that new training and regulatory changes will give locals an edge.
'The training for licensing focuses on heritage and history, aiming to make Bahrainis the natural choice for these roles,' she said.
The ministry will continue to work with Parliament to balance sector growth with preserving local identity.
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