Bahrain attracts high numbers of visitors - 12.2 million in 2016 alone - and these numbers are sustainable and growing, according to a white paper produced in June 2016 by the Bahrain Economic Development Board.

Boasting 33 islands, a cosmopolitan capital city, an attractive liberal lifestyle and a rich history, Bahrain's authentic, open culture has drawn regional tourists for decades and is now attracting even more international visitors.

The Kingdom hosts a wide variety of tourist attractions, including sites and monuments linked to its 4,000-year history, from the Al Khamis Mosque, dating back to 692 AD, to one of the most modern Formula One tracks in the world at the Bahrain International Circuit. Various tour services operate in the Kingdom to provide a wide variety of activities covering Bahrain's rich history and unique lifestyle experiences.

Bahrain International Airport is undergoing an impressive and extensive modernization project, and already serves 51 destinations, making the Kingdom accessible to many international and regional tourists. Bahrain's national airline, Gulf Air, flies to more than 40 destinations.

Bahrain currently hosts a number of major global luxury hotel brands, including the Four Seasons, Ritz Carlton, Sofitel, ART Rotana, Marriott, Le Meridien and Westin for tourists seeking a luxury experience. More hotel brands will offer unique experiences in Bahrain including the One and Only Resort, Anantara and the Fairmont.

Reflecting increasing visitor demand, the hotels and restaurants sector has been the fastest-growing sector in the Kingdom in the past years, expanding by 10 percent in 2014 and by 6.3 percent in 2015.

Bahrain's sustainable and growing attractiveness to visitors means there is a much greater potential for investors to be involved in developing the Kingdom's tourism offerings - compared to potential demand, Bahrain currently has relatively few resort and destination hotels.

There is also potential for development of leisure activities available given the Kingdom's visitor base.

The story is provided by the Bahrain Economic Development Board.