*** Bahrain is Set to Host the UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for the first time in the Middle East | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Bahrain is Set to Host the UNWTO World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for the first time in the Middle East

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: editor@newsofbahrain.com

The Kingdom of Bahrain is gearing up to host the 9th edition of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, the world’s largest global gastronomy tourism event. 

Scheduled for November 18-19 at the Exhibition World Bahrain, this prestigious event is a collaborative effort between the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and the UNWTO. The event is expected to further solidify Bahrain's position as a key player in the global tourism sector. 

The forum will bring together a distinguished group of local and international culinary and food tourism experts. It will feature a diverse range of activities, including panel discussions, workshops, and an exhibition showcasing the latest innovations in food tourism.

Moreover, it will provide a platform for the exchange of knowledge, expertise, and best practices within the industry while enhancing cooperation among stakeholders worldwide.

Additionally, the forum will showcase the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Bahrain, specifically, and the Gulf region, in general. It will also highlight the growing importance of gastronomy tourism in the region, positioning it as a leading global destination in this field in the years to come.

It's worth citing that the Economic Quarterly Report for the first quarter of 2024 indicated that the accommodation and food services sector in Bahrain experienced a 10.7% year-on-year growth, reflecting the sector's significant contribution to the national economy. This event is expected to catalyse new and innovative opportunities for collaboration and further propel growth within this dynamic sector.

On this occasion, Her Excellency Ms. Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism and Chairperson of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, stated: “We are immensely proud to host the World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for the first time in the Middle East, marking a significant milestone in Bahrain’s strategy to diversify its tourism offerings. This prestigious event is part of our commitment, as part of Team Bahrain, to diversify the tourism sector and solidify the Kingdom’s position as a leader in gastronomy tourism.” 

H.E. added: "We aim to establish Bahrain as a leading destination for food enthusiasts and culinary tourism as the World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism presents an exceptional opportunity for Bahrain to leverage its rich culinary heritage, exchange knowledge, and develop skills in this field."