Tourism in Bahrain

Tourism In Bahrain

Bahrain receives two million tourists a year. Most visitors are from Arab states of the Persian Gulf but there are an increasing number of tourists from outside the region.

The Lonely Planet guide describes Bahrain as "an excellent introduction to the Gulf" because of its Arab heritage and the reputation that it used to enjoy as safe and modern. The ancient civilisation of Dilmun, which dominated trade between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley Civilization, was centred in Bahrain. The inhabitants of Dilmun left behind settlements and temples and tens of thousands of burial mounds which dot the landscape.

Tourists are attracted to Bahrain for the weather, unique ambience (which is completely different from the average European package experience), diving and water sports, local culture and the relaxed friendly atmosphere. Bahrain also enjoys a comparatively liberal social climate (when compared to some other GCC countries), good shopping and minimal travel restrictions.