Manama Souq delegation to head to Italy for promotion

Manama: As part of its efforts to promote itself as a tourist destination for Westerners, the Manama Traditional Market Committee will participate in a roadshow in Italy.

The committee will join a group of delegates from Bahrain, Qatar, UAE, Oman and Saudi Arabia for an event in Italy named ‘This is the Arabian Gulf’. The committee’s Deputy Chairman Mahmood Al Namliti said the roadshow would be an excellent opportunity to spread awareness about the uniqueness of the Manama Souq.

He said, “Our Souq is one that has a unique and tremendous history, and it is sure to impress Europeans. Promoting tourism is not the only motive, we also aim to correct the misconceptions they might have about Bahrain and the GCC nations.”

He added that the Souq is a perfect example of Bahrain’s diversity and tolerance.

“The Manama Souq really sums up Bahrain’s tolerance and friendly nature. We have people of numerous nationalities working and residing in the Souq. It also exemplifies the religious diversity: Muslims, Hindus, Jews, Sikhs, Christians, all live together in peace,” Al Namliti added.

The committee will organise a photo exhibition as well as a grand display of Bahraini gold.

“Our focus will be to promote the Bahraini gold. We will also organise an interesting photo exhibition, which will portray life of the traders in the Souq, the facilities there as well as its history. We are taking souvenirs, pamphlets and other materials to share with the Italians,” he said.

Namliti pointed out that tourism to the Souq has been gradually improving this year. “Since the turn of 2016, we have witnessed a gradual improvement in tourism. While some of it was expected due to the improving climate, the other reason is that we are seeing the results of the marketing efforts,” he said.