Under the patronage of the Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism, His Excellency Mr. Zayed bin Rashid Al Zayani; The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority launched for the first time in Bahrain the ‘Sea Festival’ which is considered as the largest event of its kind in the Kingdom.
The launch was held in the presence of His Excellency Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, the Chief Executive of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Dr. Bandar bin Fahad Al Fuhaid, the President of Arab Tourism Organization, and the CEO of Bahrain Bay, Mr. Gagan Suri, alongside the public and visitors coming to the Kingdom.
The ‘Sea Festival’ will run until the 29th October 2016 at Bahrain Bay will be held every day from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM – entrance fee 2 BD. The festival aims to showcase the Kingdom’s rich link to the sea tying it to several Bahraini sea related traditions and cultural activities by using the latest technologies like the ‘Underwater Simulator’ that provides the visitors the opportunity to explore the 3D animated underwater world which is suitable for all ages.
The visitors will also have the opportunity to learn about the history of pearl diving through a multimedia photo gallery display, videos, and authentic diving equipment. The festival will also feature traditional sea-related handicrafts such as the making of the traditional fishing and diving equipment.
Visitors will also enjoy exploring the virtual and augmented reality simulators, in addition to the Dhow and Boat display that is lit-up with the use of decorative lighting, a thrilling water sport shows and activities, and food and beverages vendors. It also provides an area for Bahraini Pearl merchants to display their unique products.
Commenting on the launch of the ‘Sea Festival’, His Excellency Mr. Zayed bin Rashid Al Zayani, the Minister of Industry, Commerce, and Tourism stated that: “We are delighted to witness the continuous efforts of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority as they aim to promote the Kingdom as a touristic destination and forming its unique identity by organizing and hosting special activities and events that are similar to the ‘Sea Festival’.”
“We look forward to more events that will attract visitors and contribute to the growth of the Kingdom’s tourism sector which will in return add to the country’s GDP and position Bahrain in the forefront while staying in-line with the national Economic Vision 2030.” He also added.
“The festival provides a unique experience to visitors as they explore the sea-related industry that showcases the past using modern technology in order to preserve it for the future generations. We also look forward to receive visitors coming to the Kingdom and provide them with exciting activities and competitions.” The Chief Executive of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, Shaikh Khalid bin Humood Al Khalifa stated.
Further commenting on the event, CEO of Bahrain Bay, Gagan Suri said: “It gives us a great pleasure to be part of this festival that creates a partnership between both the public and private sector which in return contributes to the Kingdom’s Economic Vision and look forward to partner with BTEA on more similar events that will help position Bahrain on a regional level.”
The ‘Sea Festival’ held over a period of ten days, aims to promote the various elements related to the sea industry in order to preserve it for the next generation.