Latest news with #FatimaAlSairafi
Zawya
30-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Bahrain: Strategic boost to tourism sector
Bahrain - Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi conducted an inspection visit to the site of the Bahrain Marina project, where she reviewed the progress of work across various components of the development, strategically located on the eastern waterfront in the heart of the capital, Manama. The project comprises multiple elements, including a luxury residential building, restaurants, retail outlets, a yacht club, and a marina. The minister emphasised that Bahrain Marina represents an important addition to the kingdom's tourism infrastructure and contributes to diversifying entertainment and investment offerings. This, she noted, supports the broader effort to develop the tourism sector and increase its contribution to the gross domestic product by providing integrated facilities that meet the expectations of citizens, residents, and visitors. Ms Al Sairafi noted that the project, which has received the Golden Licence, serves as a model for investment in the tourism sector and is among Bahrain's strategic developments. She highlighted the government's strong focus on projects that enhance the investment environment, attract new partnerships, and create promising opportunities for citizens, in addition to advancing economic development and bolstering Bahrain's competitiveness and standing on the regional and global tourism map. She added that Bahrain Marina is one of the primary projects aligned with marine-front activities, a key pillar of the Tourism Strategy (2022-2026). Given Bahrain's attractive beaches and coastal character, these sites serve as a major draw for tourists, and developing them represents a direct investment in enhancing the visitor experience. The minister also emphasised the importance of strengthening collaboration with partners in both the public and private sectors to ensure the sustainability and integration of tourism projects, contributing to the achievement of the key goals and performance indicators outlined in the strategy. Bahrain Marina Development Company board chairman Reyadh Sater commended the strong support the project has received from various relevant entities. He expressed pride in the progress made so far, noting that Bahrain Marina reflects an ambitious vision to enhance Bahrain's investment and tourism environment by offering an integrated setting that harmonises quality of life with advanced design and facilities. The company's acting chief executive and head of project development Hisham Almoayyed underscored that Bahrain Marina represents a promising future for both residents and visitors, offering a modern lifestyle that combines comfort, innovation, and quality living. He noted that its prime location along the waterfront in the heart of the capital positions it as an attractive and fully integrated tourism destination that reinforces Bahrain's standing on the regional tourism map. Bahrain Marina is one of the kingdom's flagship development projects, spanning over 250,000sqm and featuring luxury residential units, a shopping complex, a yacht club, a world-class marina, hotel units, and green spaces, making it a fully integrated destination for living, investment, and leisure in the heart of Manama.
Zawya
01-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
'Meliã Beachfront' Project launched: Amwaj Beachfront signs partnership agreement with Meliã Hotels and Resorts
MANAMA, BAHRAIN - Amwaj Beachfront, an award-winning multi-use development project in Amwaj Island, has signed a partnership agreement with Meliã Hotels and Resorts, the global hotel-management specialist, to oversee the project's hotel and private beach operations, in addition to launching the sale of Meliã Residences. The signing ceremony took place at the site of Amwaj Beachfront project in the presence of Her Excellency Ms. Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism and Chairperson of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, His Excellency Eng. Essam bin Abdulla Khalaf, Chairman of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority, and Mr. Majed Al Khan, Board Chairman of Amwaj Beachfront. The agreement was signed by Mr. Ahmed Khalfan, Chief Executive Officer of Amwaj Beachfront, while Mr. Jordi Sanchís, Senior Development Director – Middle East for Meliã Hotels International, represented Meliã Hotels and Resorts. During the ceremony, the two parties unveiled the project's new brand, 'Meliã Beachfront', and announced the launch of a partnership focused on managing the hotel and its private beach, which will feature the signature Beso Beach experience, while also offering Meliã-branded residences for sale to investors under both residential and hotel ownership schemes. The development offers a wide range of upscale townhouses, luxury apartments and branded residences, alongside a five-star hotel, delivering a fully integrated beachfront lifestyle with an exclusive private beach. Strategically located at the entrance to Amwaj Islands and directly connected to the new Muharraq Ring Road, the project lies only minutes away from key destinations such as Marassi Galleria and Bahrain International Airport. In addition, a comprehensive suite of hotel-style services will elevate the experience for homeowners and residents, encompassing hospitality, maintenance and facilities management, together with a programme to redesign and upgrade residential units and finishes in line with the project's new development vision. The scheme will also include a selection of fine-dining restaurants, a private beach and landscaped green areas, as well as further operational and service elements tailored to meet the needs of owners and visitors alike. The project boasts a built-up area of approximately 250,000 sqm, comprising three 22-storey residential towers with around 700 units, and a five-storey complex housing 94 waterfront townhouses complete with gardens and a private beach, reinforcing the project's position as an integrated coastal destination that offers a truly luxurious lifestyle in the Kingdom of Bahrain. On the occasion, the Minister of Tourism affirmed that the 'Meliã Beachfront' project is a pioneering example of the Kingdom of Bahrain's ability to attract leading global brands in the tourism sector. She noted that this strategic partnership with Meliã Hotels and Resorts on Amwaj Islands forms part of the Tourism Strategy 2022–2026, which seeks to cement the Kingdom of Bahrain's status as a world-class tourism hub. Her Excellency added that the project aligns with the goal of developing appealing tourist destinations that attract visitors and encourage repeat experiences, bolstering investor confidence in the sustainable growth of the Kingdom's tourism sector while also creating quality employment opportunities for Bahraini talent and enhancing their skills, thereby increasing Bahrain's competitiveness on both the regional and international tourism map. Mr. Majed Al Khan, Board Chairman of Amwaj Beachfront, commented: 'We are delighted to forge this partnership with the distinguished global brand Meliã. It is a pivotal step in cementing Amwaj Beachfront's status as a unique residential and tourism destination and in transforming the project into a vibrant hub for Bahrain and the wider GCC. By combining local vision with international expertise, we will deliver added value to the Kingdom's citizens and residents, as well as visitors from around the world.' On his part, Mr. Ahmed Khalfan, Chief Executive Officer of Amwaj Beachfront, said: 'Our collaboration with Meliã Hotels and Resorts aligns perfectly with our strategy to provide a world-class living and hospitality experience. Contemporary design, integrated hotel services and a private beach will create an exceptional environment that captures the distinctive coastal lifestyle we aim to offer residents and investors.' Mr. Jordi Sanchís, Senior Development Director – Middle East for Meliã Hotels International, added: 'We are thrilled to expand Meliã's footprint in the Kingdom of Bahrain through the Meliã Beachfront project. Leveraging our global expertise and the development's prime location, we will offer guests a unique blend of contemporary international hospitality and serene beachfront living that meets the expectations of our valued clientele in the Middle East.' About Amwaj Beachfront Amwaj Beachfront is a leading developer and operator of luxury beachfront properties across the Middle East. Founded in 2008, the company's portfolio includes award-winning resorts, residential developments, and mixed-use properties that combine world-class amenities with stunning coastal locations. Committed to sustainable development and authentic guest experiences, Amwaj Beachfront continues to set the benchmark for luxury coastal living in the region.
Zawya
13-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Eid tourism boost for Bahrain
Bahrain saw an increase in the number of visitors from the GCC and a boost in hotel occupancy rates during the Eid Al Adha holiday, according to a top minister. This has been possible due to enhanced co-operation with the kingdom's private sector, said Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi. In a statement yesterday, she said that the private sector had positively impacted the kingdom, making important contributions to achieving the goals of the Tourism Sector Strategy (2022-2026). 'More tourists have visited Bahrain during these Eid holidays than last year,' said Ms Al Sairafi. 'This is evidenced by the surge in hotel bookings as well. 'This was mostly down to promotional efforts focused on launching innovative packages targeting families in the GCC in co-operation with Gulf Air, as well as hotels, resorts and travel and tourism agencies. 'GCC countries are among the top five key target markets, according to the tourism strategy, and this was clearly reflected in the positive performance indicators.' The minister said that the current tourist activity in the kingdom reflected the development of tourism infrastructure and diversity of services, in addition to the presence of advanced facilities that fulfil visitor expectations. She also highlighted the richness of the tourism experience through various events, theatrical performances and entertainment activities that cater to diverse tastes. Ms Al Sairafi emphasised the importance of integrated efforts between the public and private sectors in supporting the growth of this promising sector. 'Bahrain places increasing importance on the tourism sector as one of its priority areas,' she said. 'This requires the launch of quality initiatives and implementation of projects that enhance the kingdom's cultural and civilisational assets, contributing to its established position on the regional and international tourism map. 'Current indicators reflect rapid progress toward achieving the goals of the tourism strategy. 'By increasing the tourism sector's contribution to the gross domestic product (GDP), we can solidify Bahrain's status as a sustainable tourism destination in the region. 'This is being accomplished through expanding entertainment, hospitality and retail options, offering integrated travel and accommodation packages, and strengthening a sustainable tourism ecosystem.' According to data from Bahrain's Open Data Portal, the average length of stay for tourists in hotels for Eid Al Adha 2024 (June 15 to 18) was 2.70 nights. It also showed that inbound Saudi visitors alone numbered 1,163,552 while an additional 131,055 came from other GCC countries during the above period. During the period, the average daily spend per visitor was BD69.43. Last year, accommodation and food service activities recorded an increase of 5.9 per cent, according to the latest Bahrain Economic Report released by the Finance and National Economy Minister. Strong growth across several key indicators was observed during the year, such as total inbound tourism flows reaching 14.9 million, marking a 19.9pc YoY (year-on-year) increase. This was driven by the rise in same-day visitors which increased by 19.4pc to reach 8.3m and the rise in overnight visitors which increased by 20.7pc to reach 6.6m. This positively impacted the hotel sector, with overnight stays recording a 16pc YoY growth to a total of 19.2m. The GDN reported on Saturday that hotels witnessed an increase in bookings from GCC residents, as well as Bahrainis who opted for staycations instead of international getaways. Hospitality officials said that their facilities were near full capacity, with very limited availability remaining, with majority of guests being from Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the UAE. Family rooms were the most popular option during the Eid Al Adha holidays, as they include a spacious living room, dining area and a fully equipped kitchen. A variety of special packages were curated to offer guests a cultural and relaxing experience.
Daily Tribune
02-05-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
Bookings milestone
Bahrain's main venue for business gatherings has hosted 124 events and drawn over 1.4 million visitors since it opened in late 2022, with new bookings making up nearly three-quarters of those activities. The Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre has also seen a marked jump in use, with a 40 per cent rise in events in 2024 compared to the year before. Tourism Minister, Her Excellency Fatima Al Sairafi, gave the update in a reply to Shura Council member Ali Al Shehabi, who had asked about how often the centre was being used, how it measured up to global standards, and what was being done to attract organisers. In 2024, the venue's halls were in use for 26 per cent of the year. This falls within the standard international range, according to the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry. Since its launch, the centre has leased out more than 11 million square metres of space. Among the events were two major gatherings being held for the first time in the Middle East. The World Routes air travel forum and the UN's food tourism meet both drew thousands from over 100 countries. The grounds have also been used for month-long public programmes such as the Bahrain Summer Games and Youth City. Sixty-three events are on the books for 2025, with a planned usage rate of 31 per cent. Early-year bookings included the 35th Autumn Fair, which drew over 200,000 people, the GCC Law and Arbitration Week, and the Bahrain International Garden Show. This year is expected to bring large trade shows.
Daily Tribune
23-04-2025
- Business
- Daily Tribune
74% of tour guides are Bahraini, ‘all licensed'
Tourism Minister, Her Excellency Fatima Al Sairafi, told Parliament yesterday that 74 per cent of tour guides in Bahrain are citizens, all licensed and certified by the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA). She was speaking in response to remarks from MP Mohammed Janahi, who raised several concerns during the session. In reply, Al Sairafi defended the ministry's performance and said Bahrainis remain at the heart of the government's tourism plans. 'There are several points raised by the MP,' she said. 'Unfortunately, some of them are not accurate.' She said Vatel College of Hospitality is an accredited institution in Bahrain and that its students are employed while still studying. 'Sixty-two per cent of Vatel graduates are Bahrainis,' she told MPs. 'They are working in the hotel and hospitality sector in the Kingdom, which in itself shows the importance of this sector and the value the ministry and the authority place on bringing Bahrainis into it.' The Minister added that this approach falls under the tourism strategy launched in 2022. Al Sairafi said she welcomed the MP's call to make better use of the college and confirmed a new qualification is in the pipeline. Feasibility study 'At the moment, Vatel offers a bachelor's degree,' she said. 'We are working to introduce a master's degree soon. I would also like to support the MP's suggestion that the college offer short-term development courses. That is already under way. We are preparing a feasibility study with those involved in the tourism sector, inside and outside Bahrain.' Turning to training, she said the system for guides had been changed. 'There may have been training in 2015,' she said. 'But in 2023, we changed the whole training structure and worked with the UN World Tourism Organisation to ensure a full and proper programme for tour guides. This was a joint effort between the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority and the government bodies involved.' Oversight She also addressed the issue of oversight. 'The MP mentioned regulation, which is important,' she said. 'In 2023, the licensing and inspection directorates were separated. We are now preparing a new decision that will contain clear regulatory tools to stop these kinds of practices.' Al Sairafi noted that this policy shift has already produced results. 'The rise in the number of Bahrainis working as tour guides is clear,' she said. MP Janahi had referred to Decision No. (3) of 2005 on the regulation of tour guiding. Al Sairafi acknowledged that it states Bahrainis have priority, but she pointed out that Article 7 of the same decision allows for exceptions. 'The authority is allowed to grant licences to non-Bahrainis in certain cases,' she said, 'for example, to provide services in languages that Bahrainis may not speak. In the 2022 strategy, we targeted several tourist markets, including many countries in Europe.'
