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The global exhibition industry is heading to Bahrain
s the 93rd UFI Global
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Congress comes to Bahrain this November, the Kingdom is ready to show the international exhibition industry why it belongs at the centre of the Gulf ' s business events story. When the Congress opens at Exhibition World Bahrain( EWB) on 2 November, it will bring the industry’ s most influential leaders to a destination that has quietly built one of the Gulf’ s most compelling business events propositions.
For European organisers, the timing is significant. As established markets mature, the Middle East remains one of the few regions where exhibition demand, investment and new event formats are expanding at pace. Governments across the Gulf are putting business events at the heart of economic diversification, and international organisers are responding. The question for many is no longer whether to enter the Gulf, but where to anchor. Bahrain makes a strong case.
The Kingdom combines direct access to the wider Gulf market with a scale that works in organisers’ favour. The King Fahd Causeway links Bahrain by road to Saudi Arabia, the region ' s largest economy, while Bahrain International Airport connects the Kingdom to major hubs across Europe, Asia and the Middle East through its national airline carrier Gulf Air, and other major regional airlines. Short transfers, efficient approvals and a business-friendly environment mean events move from concept to delivery with less friction.
For delegates, that compact geography translates into more time for business and less time in transit.
EWB is central to that proposition. Purpose-built to host major exhibitions, congresses and business events, it offers 105,000sqm of flexible space across exhibition halls and a comprehensive convention centre. It has hosted hundreds of events since opening in November 2022. The venue ' s selection to host the UFI Global Congress reflects Bahrain ' s clear commitment to an environment where international business events thrive.
The offer extends well beyond the venue. EWB sits in Sakhir, alongside the Bahrain International Circuit, home of the Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix. Beyond it, delegates find a destination that blends modern hospitality with a rich heritage, from UNESCO World Heritage sites to a vibrant food
Above: Sara Ahmed Buhejji, CEO of BTEA, and Chairperson of EWB
and culture scene. For organisers, that means an event experience that extends naturally beyond the show floor.
HE Sara Ahmed Buhejji, CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority( BTEA) and chairperson of EWB, said: " Welcoming the UFI Global Congress is a clear signal of the confidence the international industry places in Bahrain. We want delegates to leave not just with memories of a well-run Congress, but with real partnerships and a clear view of what they can achieve here and across the region.”
That emphasis on partnership runs through Bahrain ' s approach. The Kingdom ' s model is built on collaboration between government, venue and industry, giving international organisers a clear route to local partners, suppliers and markets. That joined-up support can be the difference between a promising launch and a lasting presence.
Across four days, the UFI Congress will offer delegates a first-hand view of that opportunity. They will see the venue, the destination and the partnerships taking shape across the region, alongside a programme addressing the issues shaping the industry ' s future. For an industry that values seeing before committing, there are few better introductions.
EWB is the newest MICE venue in the Middle East. In addition to 10 large Exhibition Halls, EWB’ s Convention Centre features a Grand Hall and an adjacent Meeting Hub of 19 meeting rooms of varying sizes. EW
n For more information about EWB and its state-of-the-art features and facilities, please visit: https:// www. ewbahrain. com /
Enquiries: Huda Al Shamlan Director of Marketing, Communications and Partnerships Email: halshamlan @ ewbahrain. com
22 Issue 5 2026 www. exhibitionworld. co. uk