Dhaka, Feb. 17 -- Dubai-based premium airline Beond has signed a letter of intent with Bahrain's civil aviation regulator to set up operations in the kingdom, a move expected to strengthen Bahrain's position as a hub for luxury travel.

The boutique carrier said its operations could contribute BHD 450 million, equivalent to USD 1.197 billion, to Bahrain's gross domestic product over the first five years once it obtains an Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Additionally, the initiative is projected to create over 1,200 direct high-skilled jobs and support more than 6,000 indirect roles in tourism, hospitality, logistics, and related sectors.

Beond, a Maldivian airline with an administrative base in Dubai, plans to operate up to 10 premium-co...