When you think of Italy, you don’t feel the same distance and unfamiliarity as you might with Denmark or Finland for example, despite all these countries being part of Europe. Geography and history both contribute to Italy’s North African influences, making Italians a Mediterranean people like the Egyptians and Phoenicians.
A glance at the map reveals this connection: Italy’s geography extends significantly more from north to south than from east to west. In northern Italy, cities like Milan, Venice, Bolzano, and Lake Garda link it to southern Austria, eastern Switzerland, and western France. The landscapes, mountains, rivers, and lakes there are quintessentially European. However, central and southern Italy offer a different experience. In Rome, Sardinia, and Sicily, you’ll find an atmosphere reminiscent of spring in Syria or Tunisia.
During my family vacation this summer, Italy was my top choice for many reasons. It is one of the few countries where you can find everything you’re looking for: civilization, history, a promising future, beautiful beaches, ancient architecture, pristine nature, delicious cuisine, exciting adventures, and entertainment—all without needing to travel to another country.
I think Italy is one of the few countries in the world that doesn’t need a tourist promotion. Who hasn’t heard of Venice, the city of love and beauty? Or seen pictures of the Milan Cathedral, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, or the Roman Colosseum? Despite attracting about 50 million tourists annually and ranking fourth globally in tourism, Italy is now considering “reducing excessive tourism” to preserve its attractions for future generations.
During my vacation in Italy, many things captivated me. The elegance of Italian men, especially in Milan, was striking. I observed them riding public transport, most in stylish suits with distinctive hairstyles. Milan, as the capital of elegance and beauty, embodies sophistication in both men and women.
As a journalist specializing in economics, I was also drawn to Milan’s role as a major industrial, commercial, and financial hub. The city’s stock exchange, along with the headquarters of Italy’s largest banks and national companies, was impressive. Naturally, I was fascinated by the Milan Cathedral, Piazza Duomo, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. However, what I appreciated most was the city’s infrastructure—parking, transportation, and more—that efficiently accommodates millions of tourists annually.
I recalled a press interview I conducted with Ms. Paola Amadi, the former Ambassador of Italy to Bahrain. During the interview, Ms. Amadi confirmed that the introduction of Gulf Air’s direct flights to Italy, offering five weekly flights to Milan and two to Rome, had a positive impact on trade and tourism between Bahrain and Italy.
Furthermore, Ms. Amadi expressed her firm belief that this initiative would significantly stimulate investment cooperation and elevate the trade exchange between the two nations to exceed one billion euros annually.
Italy attracts approximately 50 million tourists annually, underscoring its pivotal role in the Italian economy. Tourism contributes significantly to Italy’s GDP, generates numerous job opportunities across various sectors such as hospitality and transportation, and stimulates growth in related industries. This robust tourism sector not only bolsters the local economy but also enhances Italy’s global stature as a tourism powerhouse, attracting foreign investment and promoting sustainable economic development.
Italy serves as a model for countries worldwide aspiring to establish themselves on the global tourism map. It boasts advanced infrastructure, delivers high-quality tourism services, and hosts diverse cultural events throughout the year. Among these countries is Bahrain, which seeks to emulate successful international tourism practices, particularly those of Italy.
Bahrain is committed to preserving and developing its historical and cultural sites, enhancing tourism infrastructure—including hotels, restaurants, and transportation—and promoting its beauty and cultural diversity through global marketing campaigns, international exhibitions, and tourism events.
Looking ahead, there are promising opportunities to expand tourism exchanges between Italy and Bahrain. Bahrain’s strategic location in the Gulf region positions it as an attractive destination for tourists globally. Strengthening tourism ties between the two countries can foster greater friendship, cooperation, and partnership across various fields in the coming decades.
It is also important to highlight that the robust trade cooperation between Bahrain and Italy is bolstered not only by tourism but also by the presence of active Italian companies in Bahrain. These include Eni, specializing in energy and clean energy; Leonardo, which focuses on security and defense; Bell Helmets, a producer of racing helmets; Pramac, which specializes in power generation and goods handling systems; and CHENB, which contributes to the Bapco refinery modernization project, among others.
Additionally, there are several bilateral cooperation initiatives and projects between Italy and Bahrain. These include the annual organization of Italian Cuisine Week in the World, the Naji Juventus Football Academy, and the Italian Language and Culture Center located at the Royal University for Women. Furthermore, the Bahraini-Italian Friendship Society plays a significant role in enhancing cultural and commercial relations between Rome and Manama.
I want also to express my appreciation for the significant role played by the Italian Embassy in Bahrain in supporting the revitalization of tourism and fostering exchanges between our countries. Their efforts in facilitating travel arrangements for Bahraini travelers, issuing visas promptly, and providing comprehensive trip-related information were remarkable. Personally, I found them to be extremely welcoming and cooperative during my interactions. My visit to Italy was overwhelmingly positive, and it left me eagerly anticipating a return. There are countless wonderful places to explore and extraordinary experiences awaiting discovery.
By Khaled Mousa
