Bahrain and Egypt have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in the tourism sector, marking a significant milestone in bilateral relations. The agreement was signed during the official visit of Bahrain’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, underscoring the shared commitment of both nations to expand tourism, foster cultural exchange, and promote sustainable growth.
Signed by Dr Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Ahmed Kouchouk, Egypt’s Minister of Finance, the MoU establishes a framework for collaboration that extends across cultural understanding, tourism exchanges, and investment opportunities.
Tourism and Cultural Collaboration
The agreement prioritises mutual tourism exchange programmes, including familiarisation visits, reciprocal tourism weeks, and joint events such as exhibitions and festivals. These initiatives aim to showcase the cultural heritage and tourism assets of both nations, promoting Bahrain’s modern and coastal appeal alongside Egypt’s globally renowned monuments such as the Pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor.
Investment and Business Development
Beyond cultural initiatives, the MoU emphasises tourism-related investments. Both countries will promote new opportunities in hotels, resorts, and attractions, with incentives to attract long-term foreign investment. By sharing regulatory knowledge and aligning tourism legislation, Bahrain and Egypt aim to create a more attractive business environment and explore joint tourism ventures that integrate the strengths of both destinations.
Sustainability and Digital Transformation
A key element of the agreement is sustainable tourism. Both nations have pledged to encourage eco-friendly initiatives that protect the environment and support local communities. The MoU also includes a strong focus on digital transformation, with plans to enhance online marketing, booking systems, and customer engagement. Training programmes for tourism professionals will ensure both countries’ workforces adapt to evolving digital trends.
Capacity Building and Global Engagement
The agreement also highlights knowledge sharing and professional training. Workshops, seminars, and collaborative projects will help tourism professionals in both countries build skills in sustainable tourism, digital marketing, and customer service. Bahrain and Egypt will also coordinate in international forums, presenting a united front in promoting MENA tourism on the global stage.
Alignment with National Strategies
The MoU aligns closely with Bahrain’s 2022–2026 Tourism Strategy, which focuses on diversifying tourism offerings and enhancing global competitiveness. For Egypt, the agreement complements its efforts to leverage ancient heritage alongside modern attractions to expand its global tourism footprint.
A New Chapter for Regional Tourism
By signing this MoU, Bahrain and Egypt are strengthening their historic ties while positioning themselves as leading tourism hubs in the MENA region. With a focus on sustainability, digital innovation, and shared expertise, the partnership sets a strong precedent for regional collaboration and long-term growth in the global tourism sector.
