Bahrain tourism China is gaining momentum as the kingdom targets one of its most promising outbound markets. The initiative aims to diversify Bahrain’s tourism sector and attract more international visitors.
Minister of Tourism Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi highlighted the growing partnership between Bahrain and China in tourism promotion. She spoke during the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly, which runs from November 7 to 11, 2025.
Al Sairafi noted that direct flights operated by Gulf Air to Guangzhou and Shanghai increased Chinese tourist arrivals by over 40 percent in the first nine months of 2025 compared with the same period in 2024. She said these connections make Bahrain more accessible and enhance its appeal to Chinese travelers.
To further support growth, Bahrain organised roadshows in Guangzhou and Shanghai last month. Additionally, local hotels underwent specialised training to meet Chinese tourists’ expectations. “We understand that Chinese tourists have distinct preferences, and we worked closely with our counterparts to make Bahrain fully ‘China-ready,’” she said.
Moreover, Bahrain’s Economic Development Board is actively seeking Chinese investment, particularly in tourism projects. The effort forms part of broader bilateral economic cooperation, aiming to strengthen trade links while boosting the sector’s contribution to the economy.
Al Sairafi emphasised that Bahrain’s Tourism Strategy 2022-2026 underpins these initiatives. Overnight tourist numbers increased more than nine percent during the first nine months of 2025, demonstrating the effectiveness of strategic planning and market diversification.
The minister also highlighted technology’s growing role in tourism. She noted that artificial intelligence is increasingly used to promote destinations, personalise visitor experiences, and attract a wider audience. “AI will be a game-changer in promoting destinations and attracting more visitors,” she said.
The UN Tourism General Assembly provided an opportunity to showcase Bahrain’s achievements alongside Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries. It also emphasised the importance of innovative approaches, such as AI-powered solutions, for the future of the global tourism sector.
Looking ahead, Bahrain tourism China will continue to expand through enhanced connectivity, investment attraction, and targeted marketing. These efforts aim to strengthen Bahrain’s position as a competitive tourism destination in the region and globally.
