Bahrain will soon offer visas on arrival to Indians in a move that is expected to attract a major chunk of tourists from the subcontinent to the Gulf country.
Initially the visa will be offered for two weeks, an official said.
India and Russia are being added to the list of countries approved by Bahrain for visas on arrival, Interior Ministry Under-Secretary for Nationality, Passports and Residence Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa said.
Currently, nationals of 35 countries are granted visas on arrival at entry points, including Bahrain International Airport and King Fahad Causeway.
India and Russia are being added to this list as part of a government plan to encourage more business and family visits to Bahrain, Shaikh Rashid was quoted as saying in Gulf Daily News.
"The move will further develop tourism and promote Bahrain as a destination for tourists, families and businessmen from India and Russia. It will substantially contribute to the development of Bahrain's economy in general and that of tourism, trade and commerce in particular," he added.
The visitors should carry a valid passport and a return ticket and provide either hotel reservation details or family contacts in Bahrain for visas on arrival.
The new flexible rules will come into force very soon, said Shaikh Rashid.
The visa can be extended for a further two weeks through the general directorate of nationality, passports and residence. Shaikh Rashid warned that there would be hefty penalties for those who misuse the facilities and overstay in the country.
