MPs to debate transit and tourism policy

TDT | Manama

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Parliament will hold a general debate next Tuesday on policy affecting transit passengers and tourists, as MPs press for clearer answers on airport services, short-stay visas and the role of Gulf Air in promoting Bahrain as a stopover destination.

The request was submitted by MP Mamdouh Al Saleh and backed by nine MPs. It calls for clarification on the facilities available to travellers passing through Bahrain International Airport, the readiness of infrastructure to handle higher volumes and plans to increase visitor numbers in line with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.

MPs want the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications to detail services offered to transit passengers and assess how well the current setup supports growth. The Ministry of Tourism is also expected to outline its strategy to strengthen the sector and attract more visitors.

Visa procedures will form part of the debate. Lawmakers have asked the General Directorate of Nationality, Passports and Residence Affairs to explain the options available for transit passengers wishing to enter Bahrain for short stays and whether electronic processes can be expanded to ease entry.

The memorandum also calls for a regional comparison of tourism and transit facilities to gauge Bahrain’s competitiveness.

MPs argue that improving services for transit passengers and tourists would boost aviation and tourism revenues and support efforts to expand non-oil income. They point to investment in tourism infrastructure, support for small and medium-sized enterprises and measures to attract foreign investment.

Gulf Air is another focus of the discussion. Lawmakers are seeking details on services provided to transit passengers, connectivity arrangements and how the airline measures up to international standards. The memorandum also refers to strengthening the airline’s route network and partnerships to expand transit traffic.

The sponsors of the request include Mamdouh Al Saleh, Ahmed Qarata, Jalal Kadhem, Hassan Ebrahim, Dr Hisham Al Ashiri, Abdulnabi Salman, Dr Mahdi Al Shuwaikh, Mohsen Al Asbool, Mahmoud Al Fardan and Dr Ali Al Nuaimi.