BIA prepares for the biggest F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix

Manama, Mar. 20 (BNA): Formula One (F1) 2019 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix weekend will run for four days for the first time, attracting a surge in tourism and logistics income to the Kingdom, and providing a further boost to the local economy. Bahrain International Airport (BIA) has already finalised preparations to accommodate the predicted spike in visitor numbers and is poised to ensure they receive a warm Bahraini welcome, Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) announced. The race, which takes place from March 28-31 at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), is Bahrain’s biggest F1 event to date, expected to fill up hotel rooms and significantly increase shopper traffic. Attracting international superstars and fans from around the world, the race shines a global spotlight on the Kingdom, with more than half a billion fans expected to tune in. Preparations to accommodate the teams, visitors, and cargo arriving for the event were discussed in detail during a coordination committee meeting between BAC and its partners. In attendance were senior representatives of BIC; Immigration and Passport Control, Customs Affairs, Airport Police from the Ministry of Interior; Gulf Air; Bahrain Airport Services (BAS); and Bahrain Limo. “The decision to add an additional day to this year’s event will have a huge impact on the local economy. Tourists will be staying longer, providing new opportunities for the Kingdom’s tourism and hospitality sectors to thrive. Moreover, it provides an exciting new challenge for BAC and our partners as we prepare to welcome what is expected to be the biggest number of F1 visitors to date. Accordingly, we have put measures in place to ensure that all visitors arriving in the Kingdom enjoy Bahrain’s renowned hospitality and an efficient airport experience,” BAC Chief Airport Operations Officer, Michael Hohenberger said. “This year is even more significant as it marks the final F1 before airport operations are transferred to the new Passenger Terminal Building. Four times larger than the existing facility, the new terminal features state-of-the-art technology that will enhance efficacy and streamline operations, ensuring F1-related cargo and passenger operations run more smoothly than ever. Visitors will also benefit from a wider range of facilities, hospitality services, and shopping and dining options,” he added. The 2018 Bahrain Grand Prix saw a crowd of 33,000 on race day alone. This year’s event is expected to drive overall visitor numbers to new heights.