Bahrain recently hosted the 9th edition of the United Nations World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, welcoming policymakers, industry experts and renowned chefs to its recently opened state-of-the-art facility Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB). This was the first time the event has ever been held in the Middle East.
TTN’s Publishing Director, Kim Thomson, spoke to Sara Ahmed Buhiji, CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and Chairman of EWB, on the sidelines of the event. “Given its abundant, captivating attractions coupled with advanced infrastructure and mega tourism investments, Bahrain is set to become a favourable global destination for different types of travellers in the next five years, meeting the nation’s Tourism Strategy 2022-2026 goal to attract over 14 million tourists by 2026,” said Buhiji.
GOING GOOD
According to the September 2024 World Tourism Barometer report, Bahrain ranks among the top five fastest-growing countries in the world for tourism. Since its inception, in two years, EWB has achieved a multitude of milestones by receiving over 1 million visitors and exhibitors at 280 local and international events. Going forward, EWB is already set with a calendar for 2025 filling up fast.
“Nowadays, we are still receiving a high level of interest from various regional and international clients and event organisers who are interested in hosting their events in our venue and in Bahrain as a preferred destination for the MICE industry. Our team is working 24/7 to attract major events to the Kingdom, actively contributing to the growth of Bahrain’s business tourism and impacting the national economy,” said Buhiji.
STRATEGIC TARGETING
“We are consistently targeting five key markets: the GCC, the UK, Germany, China, and India. These markets have been tactfully selected based on their potential to contribute significantly to our visitor numbers. We are also enhancing our outreach efforts in these regions, employing tailored marketing strategies to attract a larger number of tourist and build lasting connections.”
Bahrain has successfully attracted a diverse selection of world-renowned hotels set to open from 2024 to 2026. Between 2024 and 2026, 16 hotels will open in Bahrain. In 2024 alone, Bahrain welcomed several new four-star and five-star hotels to the tourism sector. By 2026, the Kingdom is set to welcome an additional 12 hotels. These expansions will add over 3,000 new hotel rooms.
CRUISE CALLS
The 2024-2025 cruise season will see the arrival of 40 cruise ships that will dock at the Khalifa Bin Salman Port, compared to 36 cruise ships in the previous season. The cruise ship lineup for the season includes Star Legend, Norwegian Dawn, MSC Cruise, and Adia Cruise, along with several luxury cruise ships. Buhiji added: “We are gearing up for the upcoming 2024-2025 cruise ship season aimed at expanding our visitor base and enhancing the overall tourist experience aboard ships. We anticipate 100,000 cruise tourists this season, a significant increase in tourist arrivals in the Kingdom that will double the tourism sector’s revenues and significantly boost its contribution to the country’s economy.”
FLYING HIGH
Bahrain’s national carrier, Gulf Air, as well as other international airlines, have been increasing flight frequencies to and from Bahrain, particularly to key markets in the Gulf, Europe, Asia and North America. This trend is expected to continue as demand for travel rises with the recovery of the tourism and business sectors.
The Kingdom also champions an e-visa system further streamlining visa application process for international visitors, allowing tourists to apply for visas online without needing to visit a consulate or embassy. E-visas are available for visitors from 209 countries and covers various categories of travellers, including tourism, business, and transit visitors.
Buhiji said: “Bahrain’s ability to blend business and leisure experiences is a key part of its appeal to international travellers. As Bahrain continues to host major MICE events, its reputation as both a business and leisure destination will continue to grow, attracting even more visitors to enjoy everything the Kingdom has to offer.”
BLENDED TO PERFECTION
The integration of business tourism and leisure opportunities creates a dynamic connection that benefits the economy and enhances the overall appeal of the Kingdom. MICE events often bring in delegates and business visitors who stay in the country for several days before or after the event. During this time, they take the opportunity to explore Bahrain’s attractions, enjoy its rich cultural offerings and experience its hospitality, said Buhiji.
“For instance, after attending a conference or exhibition at Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB), attendees might visit landmarks such as Bahrain International Circuit, Bahrain National Museum, the Bahrain Fort, or the bustling souks in Manama. They may also enjoy leisure activaties like dining in world-class restaurants, shopping or relaxing at luxury resorts.”
Bahrain is gearing up for a festive season filled with cultural events and entertainment, Buhiji tells us on the sidelines of the UN World Forum on Gastronomy. The Celebrate Bahrain 2024 campaign will feature a variety of activities, including the Heritage Village Festival, Muharraq Nights Festival, and Manama Nights.
A highlight of the season will be the third edition of the Muharraq Nights Festival, organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities. This year’s festival will take place along the Pearling Path, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Bahrain’s rich, UN-recognised pearl diving history. For the first time, all houses along the path will be open to the public, showcasing exhibitions and collections that tell the story of Bahrain’s pearling economy.
The Manama Nights festival will bring the Old Manama Souq to life, with a range of musical performances and theatrical shows. Additionally, the Heritage Village Festival will offer visitors a glimpse into Bahrain’s traditional culture and heritage.
“The BTEA aims to attract more tourists to the Kingdom through these events. By showcasing the country’s unique culture and heritage, the BTEA hopes to contribute to the economic development of Bahrain.
“We are moving steadily forward to realise more success stories in the coming years ahead, for the sake of repositioning Bahrain at the forefront of the MICE industry and business tourism both regionally and globally and helping BTEA reach its ultimate goal of transforming Bahrain into the most sought-after leisure, business, and hospitality destination in the Middle East,” concluded Buhiji.