Bahrain Prepares to Host the Ninth Edition of the UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism
Bahrain is set to make history by hosting the ninth edition of the UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism on November 18-19, 2024, at the Exhibition World Bahrain. This will be the first time the event takes place in the Middle East, marking a significant milestone for the region. The forum will draw over 500 participants and visitors from more than 50 countries, highlighting Bahrain’s growing influence in the global culinary tourism sector.
Bahrain’s Role in the Global Culinary Tourism Sector
The UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism offers a unique opportunity for Bahrain to showcase its rich cultural heritage and culinary arts on a global stage. Sarah Ahmed Buhejji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority and Chairperson of the Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre, emphasized the significance of the event for the Kingdom: “The Kingdom of Bahrain offers visitors a unique blend of high-end hospitality and culinary arts. Hosting this world forum is a historic achievement, not only for Bahrain but for the region as a whole, showcasing our rich cultural heritage and Bahrain’s leadership as a promising market in gastronomy tourism.”
Bahrain’s culinary tourism sector has flourished in recent years, driven by the country’s rich food culture and vibrant hospitality scene. The forum provides a platform to explore and celebrate the diversity and innovation of global culinary arts, helping Bahrain establish itself as a key player in the gastronomy tourism industry.
State-of-the-Art Venue for a Landmark Event
The Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre will serve as the venue for the forum, offering world-class facilities to accommodate the scale of this prestigious event. The venue will dedicate its main hall, lobby, and 11 tech-equipped meeting rooms to host the forum’s various sessions and activities. With a main hall capacity of up to 4,000 guests, the venue is well-suited for conferences, live shows, and luxury dinners, all of which will be integral parts of the event. The modern and flexible lobby area will serve as an ideal space for networking, communication, and collaboration, setting the stage for productive and meaningful discussions.
“The Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre blends professional operational standards with elegance, providing an ideal space for events that promote international collaboration,” said Buhejji. The venue’s design and infrastructure underscore Bahrain’s commitment to providing the highest standards of hospitality and service to global events.
A Historic Event for Bahrain and the Region
The ninth edition of the UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and culinary experts to discuss the future of gastronomy tourism. Joxe Mari Aizega, Director General of the Basque Culinary Center, highlighted the importance of the forum, stating: “The ninth edition of the UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism is a unique moment to celebrate the diversity and innovations in culinary arts.”
As Bahrain continues to grow its reputation as a hub for tourism and culture, hosting this landmark event further solidifies the Kingdom’s position as a leading destination for gastronomy tourism. Buhejji concluded, “With everyone’s efforts to make this event a success, we will celebrate the fusion of culture, gastronomy, and tourism in a holistic, unparalleled experience.”
The event promises to be a significant milestone in Bahrain’s ongoing efforts to enhance its global standing in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
