Venue report
Exhibition World Bahrain – appetite and ambition
As if to do justice to the master classes cooking up a storm at the UN gastronomy conference in November 2024 , Bahrain ’ s new venue on the block is showing a keen appetite to stage international events , as EW ’ s Simon George found out
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( EWB ) hosted the 9th UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism , a two-day event ( 18-19 November ) comprising culinary master classes from international chefs , workshops and panel discussions , showcasing how food and tourism can come together to be a key driver of economic diversification and sustainable development – all integral to Bahrain ’ s Economic Vision 2030 programme .
Being chosen to host the UN forum ( the first of its kind in the Middle East ) sends out a clear message , Sara Ahmed Buhiji , CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority , tells EW . “ This is an example that really tells everyone globally that we are ready to host events .”
International event organiser Informa Markets ’ GM Mohammed Ebrahim highlights some of the qualities he believes make Bahrain an ideal destination for international exhibitions :
“ Its central location within the Gulf region , coupled with excellent connectivity , make it highly accessible for visitors from the wider MENA region and beyond . Additionally , Bahrain ’ s Vision 2030 , progressive economic policies and commitment to innovation provide a supportive environment for business . Bahrain also has a deep cultural heritage , giving visitors a memorable experience both within and outside the event space .”
Of Informa ’ s big shows in Bahrain ' s capital , Manama – Jewellery Arabia and Autumn Fair , Ebrahim says : “ Jewellery Arabia has grown to become one of the premier jewellery exhibitions in the world , drawing top brands and tens of thousands of visitors annually ... We plan to introduce new aspects that will elevate the experience for both exhibitors and visitors in future .
“ The Autumn Fair has similarly grown in popularity and remains one of Bahrain ’ s largest consumer fairs and , in upcoming editions , we plan to enhance the visitor experience with more interactive features .”
Beyond jewellery and consumer events , Ebrahim says there is great potential for growth in several sectors in Bahrain . “ The energy and petrochemical sectors remain vital ,” he notes , “ and with Bahrain ’ s position as a regional energy innovation hub , we see strong prospects for MEOS GEO , a major event focused on the
Below : Exhibition World Bahrain geosciences and oil sector .
“ Additionally , sectors such as fintech , hospitality and health and wellness are emerging with significant demand for events . We are actively exploring ways to expand our portfolio to reflect Bahrain ’ s dynamic economic landscape .”
Exhibition World Bahrain has been instrumental in helping Informa achieve its ambitious event goals , Ebrahim adds : “ Their commitment to operational excellence and willingness to adapt to our needs have enabled us to consistently improve our events .”
As for challenges to doing events business in Bahrain , Ebrahim says they lie primarily around logistical considerations and ensuring smooth coordination among multiple stakeholders : “ Customs regulations and accessibility can require thorough planning , particularly for international exhibitors unfamiliar with local procedures . I would recommend early engagement with local authorities . The rewards , however , far outweigh the challenges .”
Sustainability is , of course , another major consideration and Ebrahim says Informa has implemented an eco-friendly Better Stands programme , as well as digital ticketing , waste reduction and setups to minimise environmental footprint .
Informa ’ s eye on growth across the region includes , says Ebrahim , diversifying the event portfolio to reflect emerging sectors , expanding its presence in high-demand industries and enhancing the use of digital tools to drive engagement .
EWB has only been in existence for two years but already has a healthy pipeline of events for 2025 and beyond . New general manager Alan Pryor tells EW that hosting the UN gastronomy conference , Jewellery Arabia ( its biggest event of the year ), Cityscape Bahrain and Scent Arabia shows “ the building really getting ready to work at its full capacity ”. EW
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