Bahrain lawmaker calls for family tourism

Manama A conservative lawmaker has called for a new strategy that will reinforce family tourism in Bahrain. "We want tourism to be in line with our religion, values and traditions," MP Abdul Halim Murad, representing Al Asala, the flagship of Salafism, said. "The proposal aims to set out a clear strategy to develop and enhance the tourism field through the participation of the private sector," he said. The strategy should cover all areas of tourism in the country and fight all negative practices that tarnish Bahrain's reputation, he said. "Everything that violates the teachings of our religion should be banned. This includes immoral practices and the sale and trade in alcohol drinks since they are responsible for the downfall in family tourism," he said. Article continues below The government should renovate tourism sites and help promote "clean tourism". Under the proposal, supported by four other lawmakers in the 40-member lower chamber, the government should dedicate a special budget to improve public facilities, parks, fields and beaches. The proposal will have to be endorsed by the legislation committee before it is debated by the lower chamber. If it is passed, it will be taken by the upper chamber dominated by liberals. Most tourists to Bahrain are Gulf nationals, mainly from Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait. The culture ministry oversees the tourism sector in Bahrain. Bahrain's capital, Manama, was chosen as the Arab Capital of Culture for 2012 and the Arab Capital of Tourism in 2013.