Tourism Minister meets IMF official

Manama, May 11 (BNA): Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism, met with John Bluedorn, Deputy Division Chief in the Regional Analytics and Strategy Division of the Middle East and Central Asia Department at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and his accompanying delegation.

The Minister highlighted Bahrain’s progress in developing its tourism sector, driven by the implementation of the 2022–2026 Tourism Strategy.

She emphasised the sector’s role in strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a leading regional destination, as well as its importance in job creation and diversifying national income. She also emphasised the need for continued partnership and integration between government bodies, the private sector, and tourism institutions.

Al Sairafi noted that the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) efforts in monitoring tourism indicators, analysing performance, and closely tracking developments to support data-driven decision-making and enhance the effectiveness of strategic policies and initiatives.

The IMF delegation commended the progress of Bahrain’s tourism sector and its contribution to economic growth and quality job creation.

 They also commended Bahrain’s strong reputation and competitiveness as a tourism destination that blends authenticity with modernity, supported by robust infrastructure and attractive facilities that increasingly boost the sector’s contribution to the national economy.