Bahrain allows tourism businesses to defer Q1 fees

Tourism businesses in Bahrain can defer regulatory fees for the first quarter of 2026 under a new optional scheme introduced by the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA).

 

The measure applies to hotels, hotel apartments, furnished apartments and restaurants licensed by the authority. Participation is voluntary, allowing operators to assess their financial position before opting in.

 

In a statement, the BTEA said: “This initiative aims to support business continuity and enhance the resilience of the tourism sector in partnership with the private sector, thereby contributing to strengthening the competitiveness of Bahrain as a tourist destination.”

 

The scheme follows broader financial support introduced earlier this month. The Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) launched a loan deferral and liquidity support programme, enabling retail banks and financing companies to offer customers the option to defer loan instalments and credit card payments, including interest, for three months.

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Similar cost-relief measures are being introduced elsewhere in the Gulf. In the UAE, Ajman has rolled out a six-month deferral on tourism fees for hotels, alongside interest-free installment plans and the removal of late payment penalties.

 

The initiative comes as the Middle East prepares for recovery following the Iran conflict, which began on 28 February 2026. During this period, Bahrain temporarily closed its airspace before reopening in April 2026, allowing operations to resume from Bahrain International Airport (BAH).

 

In 2025, the airport recorded its strongest annual performance, handling 9.74 million passengers, up 4.2% year-on-year, with its network expanding to 74 destinations as part of longer-term plans to reach 100 destinations.

 

Tourism remains a key focus, with the kingdom targeting more than 14 million visitors in 2026, according to data intelligence experts Mabrian.

 

For more information, visit www.btea.bh