A 20-year tourism masterplan being developed by Kuwait in co-ordination with the World Tourism Organisation and United Nations Development Programme,

 is to be implemented by next year and will include major developments in the country's hotels and resorts, leisure and recreation and scientific, ecological and technological exhibits.

Nabila Al Anjari, Assistant Under-Secretary for Tourism in Kuwait, said: "Kuwait stands poised at the threshold of a new era of tourism and development. Al-Anjari added: "Tourism is now a strategic objective in order to diversify the national income and create new jobs for Kuwaitis. At present nationals spend an estimated US$3 billion on tourism outside of the country and the government is keen to see a high proportion of this revenue boost Kuwait's GDP."

"The government of Kuwait is now launching an extensive tourism development plan with the number one priority being to develop and improve domestic tourism. Statistical studies have shown that a large percentage of Kuwaitis, 79 per cent, leave Kuwait to vacation abroad, while reporting that approximately the same percentage would prefer to spend their prime vacation time in Kuwait if enough domestic tourism facilities were available. As a second priority, Kuwait is positioning itself as an inbound AGCC tourist destination with a strong emphasis on business traveller meetings and exhibits, and as an excellent family holiday destination for AGCC residents.

At present, the government is involved in the pre-qualification of 115 companies interested in developing Failaka Island, home to Kuwait's most significant archaeological site. This development will include hotels, shops, residential complexes, a media centre and restaurants with an estimated cost of $3.3 billion. Studies are also underway for projects on the largest offshore island, Bubiyan Island, which is graced with white sand beaches and coral reefs.

A golf course is being constructed at the 6th ring motorway with plans to open in early 2005.

The golf club project with its sport, entertainment and commercial facilities will cost an estimated $5 million to complete.