Bahrain welcomed the influx of visitors during the Formula One weekend, with more than 23,000 hotel rooms being booked for the event, it was revealed.

The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) said that occupancy levels across the kingdom's five- and four-star hotels also increased, with many establishments registering up to 90 per cent room occupancy.

"Hotel revenues have increased during the 2018 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix with more than 23,000 hotel rooms booked and the total occupancy rate of five-star hotels reaching up to 90 per cent," BTEA said in a statement.

Hotel revenues in Bahrain reached BD3.7 million ($9.7 million) during the Formula One weekend in 2017, with 12,000 hotel rooms booked during the event and total occupancy rate of five-star hotels reaching up to 89 per cent.

"On behalf of the BTEA, I would like to extend my congratulations on the success of Bahrain hosting the 2018 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, one of the most prestigious international sporting events held in the kingdom since 2004. The international event showcases the kingdom’s ability to host leading global events,” said the chief executive officer of BTEA, Shaikh Khaled bin Humood Al Khalifa.

“The Formula One season significantly contributes to the national economy and strengthens the kingdom's position on the international tourism and sports map as it attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. We look forward to hosting the upcoming Grand Prix,” he added.

In line with its strategy to promote the kingdom’s touristic offerings, the BTEA hosted more than 30 media representatives, social media influencers and representatives along with travel and tourism agencies during the Formula 1 2018 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix through its representative offices.

On the sidelines of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, the BTEA also organised the ‘Hurafuna’ Handicrafts Festival in Bab Al Bahrain bringing together local handicraftsmen alongside a group of craftsmen from the Republic of Egypt. The festival offered residents and visitors an opportunity to learn about the kingdom’s handicrafts. - TradeArbaia News Service