Shaikha Mai expressed delight at the choice of Manama as Capital of Arab Tourism for the year 2013, adding that the move requires putting forward a clear plan and strategy to embrace all competencies, take advantage of the region’s distinguished civilizational and cultural features and use them to produce sustainable projects that enable the region to develop its competencies and cadres.
She also said that the selection of Manama as Capital of Arab Culture in 2012 and Arab Tourism in 2013 is a strong proof of the kingdom’s merit and recognition of its landmark achievements over the past years.
During the meeting, Shaikha Mai unveiled the Culture Ministry’s strategy aiming to take advantage of the various tourism attraction factors, highlighting the importance of availing of the region’s rich cultural heritage and preserve distinctive civilizational features so as to put Arab tourism back on track.
She also said that the Culture Ministry has planned various functions and activities that will be held the year-long, including exhibitions, seminars, conferences, lectures and competitions.
It is worth noting that Manama was declared Capital of Arab Tourism in 2013 during a special Ceremony held last September 27 and attended mainly by the Chairman of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiques HRH Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Chairman of Arab Tourism Organization Dr. Bandar bin Fahd Al Fuhaid.