The gulf state of Bahrain has announced plans to spend a total of $2 billion (£1.28 billion) on a refurbishment and expansion of Bahrain International Airport (BIA).

The work should increase BIA’s capacity to 13.5 million passengers every year once it is completed. The project is expected to take up to five years and involve improvements to both passenger and cargo facilities.

Raj Menon, the managing editor of Arabian Reach Dubai, claimed the development could significantly improve Bahrain’s appeal to investors. He said: "Boasting the shortest travel links between road, sea and air in the region, Bahrain is a strategically attractive access point to the $1.5 trillion Gulf market."

The announcement comes ahead of the aviation development forum for airport supplies, services and technology B2B show. This will be hosted at BIA over April 1st and 2nd 2015, in a further attempt to boost the country’s standing within the aviation industry.