Radisson SAS G.M. looks towards an expanded tourism blueprint for Bahrain

And Heimo Leitgeb says Bahrain should focus upon inbound tourism efforts targeting both GCC family tourism and international leisure travellers.

"In Bahrain we currently enjoy Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, Kuwait and Qatar as our key audiences," said the Austrian GM, who joined the five-star property almost two years ago, with over 14 years experience in the GCC. "We are also in the enviable position of being highly accessible to Upper Gulf visitors."

Leitgeb said the creation of specific events and attractions for tourists should have a definite time scale to ensure the Kingdom maintains or enhances its inbound market share.

"We look forward to seeing new projects and programmes that will appeal to both Gulf nationals and expatriates, with a focus on family-oriented attractions as this segment has the greatest growth potential.

"With the ease of accessibility for travellers to Bahrain and the dynamic development within the Kingdom's political structure we are confident that with a comprehensive blueprint in place, Bahrain has the opportunity to further develop the potential of a highly lucrative tourism industry.

"Dynamic development of the tourism industry would obviously result in a vast number of job opportunities for both skilled and unskilled labour, a target high on the Kingdom's agenda."