AGP Executive Report

Luxury Events: Royal Bahrain Concours has added Y. K. Almoayyed & Sons as sponsor and exhibitor for the 2026 edition at the Royal Golf Club (Nov 6–7), building on last year’s strong turnout of 60 collector cars and 200+ GCC members’ cars. Digital Travel & Camping: Bahrain’s Municipalities and Agriculture Ministry, with the Southern Governorate, has launched a fully online system for paying and refunding security deposits for non-commercial camping permits—cutting processing from up to three working days to an instant automated step via the “Khayyam” initiative. Tourism Push: Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi met hotel sector representatives to strengthen summer tourism plans, including joint packages with malls, event organisers and tourism partners to attract more GCC visitors. Sports & Youth: Bahrain’s junior boxing teams depart for a 20-day training camp in Bosnia, ending with the International Olympic Hopes Tournament in Sarajevo (June 18–21). World Cup Watch: A Bahrain guide highlights where fans can catch FIFA World Cup 2026 matches across Manama, including fanzone-style venues and major sports screens. Bahrain Football: A friendly against Syria has been called off due to Syria’s travel restrictions, with Bahrain now seeking a replacement match while continuing training in Antalya.

Bahrain Tourism & Hotels: Tourism Minister Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi met Bahrain’s hotel sector to strengthen public-private coordination ahead of summer seasons and key events, stressing how diverse accommodation helps attract different visitor segments and supports the Tourism Sector Strategy 2022–2026. Gulf Air Recovery: Gulf Air says it has restored 100% of its network after regional airspace reopened, with plans focused on rebuilding bookings and revenues following earlier disruption. US-Iran Gulf Fallout (Travel Risk): The US is exploring redirecting Iranian assets to help Gulf allies pay for reconstruction after Iran-linked attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain, while talks remain fragile and drone/missile activity continues around the Strait of Hormuz—another reminder for travellers to monitor advisories. Camping Made Easier (Local): Bahrain’s Municipalities and Agriculture Ministry upgraded online camping security-deposit payments for non-commercial camping, cutting processing to instant and automating the steps via the Southern Governorate “Khaym” initiative. Regional Visa Update: Sri Lanka’s free tourist ETA fee waiver for 40 countries excludes Bangladesh, meaning Bangladeshi travellers still pay visa fees. Airline Deals: Jazeera Airways launched a limited-time summer sale with up to 30% off fares across its network, including routes to Manama and other regional destinations.

Gulf Air Update: Gulf Air says it has restored 100% of its operational network after regional airspace reopened, with all destinations back online and a push to rebuild bookings and revenue. Summer Tourism Push: Bahrain’s Tourism Minister Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi met hotel sector representatives to firm up summer tourism plans, stressing that wider hotel choice helps attract more visitor segments. Gulf Security Fallout: Iran fired missiles and drones toward Bahrain and Kuwait, while the US said it shot down drones over the Strait of Hormuz and struck Iranian radar sites—raising fresh concerns for regional travel conditions. Reconstruction Funding Talk: The US is reportedly considering using Iranian assets to fund repairs and rebuilding in Gulf states hit by attacks, a move that could further complicate fragile US-Iran ceasefire talks. Bahrain Business Spotlight: Bahrain EDB wrapped up a five-day investor roadshow across Spain and Switzerland, including meetings tied to finance, logistics, and tourism.

Gulf Security: Iran fired ballistic missiles and drones at Bahrain and Kuwait after fresh US strikes, with Bahrain reporting interceptions of missiles and drones and Kuwait condemning the attacks as a direct threat to residents; the flare-up further strains a fragile US-Iran ceasefire and keeps the Strait of Hormuz risk in focus. Aviation & Travel Disruption: With regional tensions rising, airlines and travellers are watching for knock-on effects across Middle East routes as governments issue cautions and airspace disruptions remain a concern. Bahrain Tourism Capacity: Bahrain’s hotel room capacity has topped 24,000 rooms, with nearly 140 hotels and resorts operating and more five-star openings in the pipeline, supported by sport, events and conferences. Business & Fintech Push: Bahrain EDB wrapped up a five-day investor roadshow across Spain and Switzerland, spotlighting sectors like tourism, financial services, logistics, fintech and digital assets. Air Arabia Updates: Air Arabia outlined ongoing limited services from UAE hubs and phased resumptions/refunds for affected passengers. Health Travel Alert: Bahrain also issued an Ebola-related travel warning, adding to the week’s travel caution headlines.

Gulf Security Update: Iran fired seven ballistic missiles toward Kuwait and Bahrain, with US CENTCOM saying six were intercepted and one missed its target, as air raid sirens sounded and Bahrain condemned the “blatant aggression” tied to renewed US-Iran strikes. Regional Ceasefire Strain: The latest exchange further threatens a fragile US-Iran ceasefire near the 100-day mark, with both sides trading claims over attacks around the Strait of Hormuz and US bases. Bahrain Tourism Capacity: Bahrain’s hotel room supply has topped 24,000 rooms across nearly 140 hotels and resorts, with more five-star openings in the pipeline, supporting continued visitor growth. Air Travel Disruption Watch: Middle East flight plans remain sensitive to the conflict, with airlines extending or adjusting suspensions and schedules; travellers are urged to monitor official updates before booking. Bahrain Airport & Aviation: Bahrain’s hotel growth and airport connectivity sit alongside heightened regional travel advisories, making planning and flexibility key for summer trips.

Flight Disruption & Advisories: With US-Iran tensions nearing the 100-day mark, the US Embassy in Jerusalem issued a fresh regional security alert urging Americans to “reconsider travel” (Level 3) for Bahrain and other Gulf states, and avoid Level 4 destinations including Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, Gaza and Yemen. Airline Schedule Changes: British Airways has pushed back Middle East flying again, with Dubai plus Bahrain, Tel Aviv and Amman not expected until at least Oct 25, while Doha and Riyadh schedules are reduced. Bahrain Travel Curbs: Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority told agencies to stop advertising Iran and Iraq trips after Bahrain’s travel ban. Ebola Alerts: Bahrain issued an Ebola travel warning for Uganda and the DRC, while the UAE suspended visas for travellers from three affected countries. Local Tourism & Culture: Bahrain’s book fair could return annually after a parliamentary proposal; a new interactive pearl and diving museum concept gained support; and the Sheraton Wedding Fair 2026 kicked off to attract visitors planning weddings in Bahrain.

Flight Disruption & Visa Worries: After Iran’s attack on Kuwait International Airport, an Air India Express flight from Kochi to Bahrain was cancelled even after check-in, leaving Kerala expats anxious about further Gulf cancellations and possible visa validity issues. Health Advisory: Bahrain’s Foreign Affairs Ministry issued a cautionary travel advisory for Uganda and the DRC due to ongoing Ebola reports, urging travellers to monitor WHO updates and take preventive steps. Travel Restrictions (Iran/Iraq): Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority told agencies to halt all Iran and Iraq travel promotions and programmes following the government’s citizen travel ban. Airline Update: British Airways pushed back Middle East resumptions, now targeting October 25 for Dubai and other affected routes, with Bahrain among the delayed destinations. Local Tourism & Culture: Parliament is set to review a proposal to bring back Bahrain’s international book fair annually; MPs also backed a plan for a dedicated interactive pearl and diving museum. Infrastructure for Visitors: New directional road signs for Al Ramli are planned, and Zallaq’s “locked in” village may finally get two access roads. Wedding Tourism: Sheraton Bahrain Wedding Fair 2026 opened, positioning Bahrain as a one-stop wedding destination.

Airline Disruption: British Airways has pushed back its Middle East flight restart, saying services to Dubai, Tel Aviv, Bahrain and Amman won’t resume until after the summer season, with a new target of October 25. Travel Alerts: The US Embassy in Jerusalem issued a fresh regional security warning for Americans, keeping Bahrain and several Gulf states at Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) and Iran/Iraq at Level 4 (Do Not Travel). Local Tourism Rules: Bahrain’s tourism authority told travel agencies to immediately stop ads and packages for Iran and Iraq after the government ban on Bahraini travel. Regional Safety Impact: Kuwait’s airport was hit by missile and drone attacks, killing one and injuring dozens, prompting flight suspensions and diversions—another reminder that Gulf aviation is still under strain. Payments & Travel Convenience: Qatar Central Bank expanded acceptance of its HIMYAN payment card to Bahrain, supporting easier digital spending for GCC travellers. Marine & Coastal Tourism: A new boat fuel station at Zallaq harbour is nearing completion, while the Karbabad coast near Bahrain Fort is set for development to boost visitor experience. Trade & Events: The 57th Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show opens in Sharjah on Wednesday (10–14 June) with Bahrain among participating countries.

Aviation Disruption in the Gulf: British Airways says it won’t resume Dubai flights this summer, pushing the restart to at least October, as Middle East tensions keep travel plans shaky. Regional Security Impacting Travel: Kuwait reported Iranian drones heavily damaged its main airport terminal, killing one and injuring dozens; flights were briefly suspended and later resumed via Terminal 4, while flydubai cancelled Kuwait routes and said Bahrain operations continue. Bahrain Defence Update: Bahrain’s air defence intercepted three missiles and several drones, with the Bahrain Defence Force urging the public to avoid suspicious remnants. Tourism & Heritage Development: Karbabad coast next to Bahrain Fort is set for development after approval of a plan for landscaping, shaded seating and solar-powered lighting, aiming to boost visitor experience while protecting the historic site. Local Marine Services: Zallaq fishermen are set to get a dedicated boat fuel station at the harbour, expected to open within days to cut long trips and improve safety. Corporate Travel Move: dnata Travel Group appointed Maura Geertsma as Divisional VP for Corporate Travel, expanding service across Bahrain and the region. Bahrain Tourism Push: Gulf Air outlined a growth strategy to 2035, saying it will use every flight to promote Bahrain as a tourism and investment destination. Travel Safety Note: Bahrain also faces wider regional travel restrictions and heightened anxiety among travellers and students due to the ongoing conflict.

Gulf Aviation Shock: Iran-linked missile and drone attacks hit Kuwait International Airport, killing one Indian resident and injuring 63, with Terminal 1 damaged and flights briefly suspended—sparking wider travel disruption fears across the region. Bahrain Security Update: Bahrain’s air defence intercepted three missiles and several drones, says the Bahrain Defence Force, as officials urged the public to avoid suspicious remnants. Diplomatic Fallout: Bahrain has submitted UN letters over Iran’s strikes on GPIC facilities, while Kuwait expelled Iranian diplomats after the airport attack. Airline Disruption: flydubai cancelled all Kuwait flights for 3 June and said it will support affected passengers; meanwhile, British Airways has extended Middle East flight suspensions, including routes involving Bahrain, through late October. Tourism & City Life: A proposal aims to beautify the Karbabad coastline near Bahrain Fort with shaded seating, landscaping and solar lighting—designed to welcome families and tourists while protecting heritage. Travel Safety Watch: With Ebola travel advisories also circulating in the wider region, travellers are being urged to check official guidance before booking.

Gulf Travel Disruption: Bahrain’s Interior Ministry has banned citizens from travelling to Iran and Iraq until further notice, citing a tense security situation and warning of legal action for violators. Air Travel Shockwaves: Kuwait suspended commercial flights after an Iranian drone attack hit Kuwait International Airport, with diversions and uncertainty on when services will resume; regional airspace disruptions also affected flights around the Gulf. Middle East Flight Cancellations: British Airways extended suspensions to many Middle East routes through the summer period, with Bahrain among affected destinations, while some Gulf services are set to restart in August. Tourism Numbers: Bahrain welcomed 16.04 million non-Bahraini arrivals in 2025, its highest total in nine years, with GCC visitors driving most of the growth. Health Advisory: Bahrain’s Foreign Ministry urged extra caution—and possible postponement—of travel to Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo due to Ebola concerns. Local Road Safety: A Bahraini appeals court upheld a two-year prison sentence for a drink-driving case that led to a fatal crash. Fuel Watch: Oil prices jumped on renewed Middle East tensions, raising the risk of higher fuel costs for drivers.

Travel Alerts: Bahrain’s Interior Ministry has banned Bahraini citizens from travelling to Iran and Iraq until further notice, citing escalating regional security tensions and risks to public safety, with legal action promised for violators. Air Travel Disruption: British Airways has delayed its Middle East flight restart, extending suspensions to routes including Bahrain and Dubai until late October, while other airlines keep adjusting schedules amid the fragile US-Iran situation. Tourism Update: Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority says Eid Al Adha visitors boosted hospitality, with the “We Miss You” campaign and renewed tourism activities driving stronger arrivals from GCC markets. Local Access for Visitors: Northern Municipal Council members backed a push for directional and identification signs for Ramli District, arguing residents and delivery/service providers struggle to find the area despite homes being handed over years ago. Business & Tourism Links: Bahrain EDB is on a five-day investor roadshow in Spain, Zurich and Geneva, highlighting Bahrain’s investment-friendly ecosystem and growing appeal as a regional hub. What’s On: BTEA has launched a June summer events calendar, including The Big Bounce Arabia and a Nancy Ajram concert at Exhibition World Bahrain.

Travel Restrictions: Bahrain has told citizens to stop travelling to Iran and Iraq until further notice, warning legal action for violators as regional security alerts stay elevated. Tourism Boost: Eid Al Adha visitors helped lift Bahrain’s hospitality sector, with Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi citing growth since the “We Miss You” campaign and renewed tourism and entertainment activity, especially from GCC arrivals. Summer What’s On: Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) rolled out a packed June events calendar, including family-friendly attractions like The Big Bounce Arabia and major concerts such as Nancy Ajram on June 5. Sports & Travel: Bahrain’s senior men’s football team is heading to Europe for a training camp in Georgia and Türkiye, with friendlies against Georgia (June 5) and Syria (June 9) as preparations continue for the Gulf Cup and AFC Asian Cup 2027. Business Travel: Bahrain EDB launched a five-day Europe investor roadshow in Barcelona, Zurich and Geneva, targeting C-suite networking across finance, manufacturing, logistics and tourism. Local Nature Rules: Authorities warned crowds to stay out of Buhair Valley’s protected areas after Eid trespassing, littering and damage reports, with legal action promised. Education & Hospitality: Vatel Bahrain won “Leading Hospitality and Tourism Management Institution in the Middle East for 2026” at the LUXlife Travel and Tourism Awards.

Tourism Boost: Bahrain’s “We Miss You” campaign is credited with strong visitor growth, with Tourism Minister Fatima Al Sairafi saying Eid Al Adha demand from GCC travellers is rising and the kingdom is ready for the summer season. Visitor Numbers: Bahrain welcomed about 16.04 million non-Bahraini travellers in 2025, up around 41% from 2022, showing steady, more sustainable growth post-Covid. Business & Investment: Bahrain EDB begins a five-day Europe investor roadshow in Barcelona, Zurich and Geneva to attract C-suite partners across finance, manufacturing, logistics and tourism. Hospitality Education: Vatel Bahrain was named “Leading Hospitality and Tourism Management Institution in the Middle East for 2026,” highlighting its industry-linked training model. Culture & Entertainment: Konkani comedy blockbuster “Toxench Zanv” lands in Bahrain on June 11–12 at Epix Cinemas, Dana Mall, Sanabis, with the first show already sold out. Responsible Tourism: Legal action is being pledged over unruly crowds at Buhair Valley, after reports of trespassing and damage to the protected nature reserve. Travel Connectivity: AirAsia X plans a June 26 return to London Gatwick via Bahrain, while other June route launches expand Europe–Asia options. Sports Travel: Bahrain’s senior men’s national team heads to Europe for friendlies against Georgia and Syria as part of preparations for the Gulf Cup and AFC Asian Cup 2027.

Tourism Boost: Bahrain’s tourism minister says the “We Miss You” push and the return of tourism and entertainment activities have driven strong visitor growth from GCC countries during Eid Al Adha, with the sector gearing up for a busy summer season. Visitor Numbers: New data shows Bahrain welcomed about 16.04 million non-Bahraini travellers in 2025, up roughly 41% from 2022, signalling more stable, sustainable growth. Eid Outdoors Rules: Complaints are mounting over unruly crowds at Buhair Valley; officials say the protected nature reserve is off-limits and warn of legal action for trespassing and damage. Sustainability in Action: Skal Bahrain held a tree-planting drive at the Gulf Hotel Bahrain to promote responsible tourism and environmental awareness. Hospitality Education Win: Vatel Bahrain was named “Leading Hospitality and Tourism Management Institution in the Middle East for 2026” at the Travel and Tourism Awards by LUXlife. Regional Travel Ease: Sri Lanka introduced free 30-day tourist visas (ETA fee waived) for citizens of 40 countries, including Bahrain, starting May 25. Travel Safety Watch: Bahrain is among countries that have imposed travel bans linked to the growing Ebola situation in the DRC, as WHO urges nations to reconsider blanket restrictions.

Bahrain Tourism Boost: Bahrain welcomed about 16.04 million foreign travellers in 2025, its highest in nine years, up from 11.38 million in 2022—showing steady post-Covid momentum. Ebola Travel Alerts: The UAE warned against travel to DR Congo, Uganda and South Sudan unless absolutely necessary, while Emirates urged passengers to check destination entry rules as more countries tighten Ebola screening. Gulf Travel Convenience: A Unified GCC Visa is set to make it easier for eligible residents to move across Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the UAE on one application, aiming to simplify and speed up travel. Local Community & Access: A Bahrain-based charity donated a dedicated bus to support the Friendship Society for the Blind, improving daily mobility for community programmes. Bahrain Sports & Travel: Bahrain’s national men’s team resumed training after Eid Al Adha and is set for European friendlies in early June. Tourism Watch: A rare black-faced spoonbill was spotted in Sanad, delighting local birdwatchers.