Bahrain welcomes global experts for Middle East’s First Gastronomy Tourism Forum

TDT | Manama

Email: ashen@newsobahrain.com

The Kingdom of Bahrain is set to host the 9th World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism 2024, marking the first time this prestigious event is being held in the Middle East. Organised by the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in collaboration with the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and the Basque Culinary Centre, the forum will run from November 18 to 19, 2024, at the Exhibition World Bahrain.

This landmark event under- scores Bahrain’s growing prominence as a global tourism hub and its commitment to diversifying its economy through innovative approaches to tourism.

The forum will bring together a distinguished group of decision-makers, experts, and stake- holders from the global and regional tourism sectors to discuss the transformative potential of gastronomy tourism. High-profile speakers such as Her Excellency Ms. Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi, Bahrain’s Minister of Tourism; Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary General of UNWTO; and Mr. Joxe Mari Aizega, Director General of the Basque Culinary Centre, will lead insightful discussions alongside other notable figures including Zimbabwe’s Minister of Tourism Barbara Rwodzi and Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister for International Affairs Sultan Al Musallam.

Inauguration

In addition to dialogue sessions, the forum will announce the inauguration of several international restaurants and the establishment of partnerships between local, regional, and global stakeholders. These initiatives aim to solidify Bahrain’s position as a premier tourist destination and foster economic growth through gastronomy tourism.

Ms. Sara Ahmed Buhiji, CEO of BTEA, highlighted the forum’s significance by stating “This event is a testament to Bahrain’s dedication to advancing its tourism sector while aligning with global trends. It also aligns with the Kingdom’s Tourism Strategy 2022-2026, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification through gastronomy tourism.” She further emphasized the forum’s role in celebrating Bahrain's cultural heritage and promoting knowledge exchange to enhance the tourist experience.

Opportunities

The 9th World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism is poised to open new opportunities for Bahrain, showcasing its rich culinary heritage and innovative tourism assets. With its strategic focus on sus- tainability, cultural diplomacy, and international collaboration, the event is expected to leave a lasting impact on Bahrain’s tourism landscape, elevating it as a sought-after destination on the global stage.