The second edition of ‘Hurafuna’ Handicrafts Festival was launched yesterday at Bab Al Bahrain.
The Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism Zayed Al Zayani inaugurated the festival which will run for a period of one week until the 18th April, 2017.
It was held in the presence of the Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa, as well as representatives from the authority and members of the media.
“This event comes in line with BTEA’s strategy to highlight the Kingdom’s tourism infrastructure and offering which is aimedat attracting tourists and visitors from all over the world. The strategy implemented by the Authority also aims to develop the old Manama Souq and further enhance its position as a commercial and touristic hub both on a regional and international level. Manama Souq is one of the key locations in Bahrain that attracts Formula One visitors,” said Mr Al Zayani.
Further commenting on the launch of ‘Hurafuna’, Shaikh Khaled said “We decided to host this event during the Formula One Season to introduce and promote our handicraft industry to tourists from the region and around the world. Hurafuna is a unique family that appeals to the entire family.”
More than 18 local craftsmen will be participating in the festival, showcase the local handicrafts to visitors who will get the opportunity to purchase traditional products such as hand-weaved baskets, traditional musical instruments and wooden boxes, pottery, model ships and much more.
The festival is expected to draw in a large audience, especially seeing the increase in the number of tourists coming in from the region and the rest of world. It will also position Bahrain as a distinctive family tourism destination that offers unique local goods and attractions. The event will be open to the public free of charge.