TOURISM IN BAHRAIN: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION
TOURISM IN BAHRAIN: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES OF ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION

Summary/Abstract: Tourism was recognized as factor of economic diversification in the Arabian Gulf, a very needed sector for sustainable economic growth in the future. While putting Bahrain in the wider context of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, this paper provides the very first overview of prospects and challenges for tourism growth in the kingdom. Bahrain started to develop its tourism industry early along UAE. In recent years, it strived to transform itself from a low-cost weekend destination for Gulf Arabs into an upscale family destination appealing also to international tourists from beyond the Gulf. Yet, due to the competition of GCC countries, future growth may depend on further development of niche tourism and on a successful branding strategy, which are yet to be seen.

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