Manama : Sarah Ahmed Buhiji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), emphasised the Kingdom’s commitment to establishing itself as a leading destination for luxury and sustainable tourism. She highlighted the Authority’s efforts, in collaboration with public and private partners, to balance modern tourism infrastructure and experiences with the preservation of the kingdom’s unique cultural and natural identity.
This came during her participation at the third edition of the Gateway Gulf Investment Forum 2025, held under the theme “Rethinking Global Investment for New Trade Dynamics,” organised by the Economic Development Board (EDB).
Buhiji participated in a panel discussion titled “Multinational Tourism: The Global Luxury Travel Perspective,” addressing current trends in luxury tourism, the shift toward sustainable and environmentally conscious travel, and the GCC’s role in redefining luxury tourism.
Buhiji emphasised that luxury tourism focuses on providing exceptional, tailor-made experiences that combine comfort, exclusivity, and cultural authenticity. She noted Bahrain’s strategic geographic location, its distinctive environmental features, and its status as the only archipelago in the Gulf, highlighting beach tourism and islands like Hawar Islands, alongside resorts such as the newly launched Mantis-managed Hawar Islands Resort, as central to the kingdom’s luxury tourism strategy.
She further highlighted Bahrain’s developed tourism infrastructure, fine dining options, luxury retail outlets, and heritage attractions, which together create a rich and diverse visitor experience, reflecting the kingdom’s accessibility, historical depth, and unique cultural offerings.
