The Kingdom of Bahrain today welcomed the global exhibitions community as it officially opened the 93rd UFI Global Congress at Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB), bringing together industry leaders and c-suite professionals from around the world to discuss the future of the exhibitions industry.
Hosting the Congress for the first time marks a significant milestone for the Kingdom, reinforcing Bahrain’s growing international standing as a destination for business tourism and major international events.
The opening ceremony was attended by Her Excellency Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism, Sara Ahmed Buhejji, CEO of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), and Chairperson of Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB), and Chris Skeith OBE, CEO and Managing Director of UFI, the Global Association of the Exhibitions Industry, alongside international industry leaders and delegates.
On this occasion, H.E. Al Sairafi stated that hosting this prestigious international gathering is a significant milestone for Bahrain’s tourism and business events sectors, reflecting the Kingdom’s growing standing within the international exhibitions industry and the confidence placed in the Kingdom’s ability to host major global congresses.
Al Sairafi added: “Beyond the significance of the Congress itself, we see this occasion as an important opportunity to showcase Bahrain to the international exhibitions community, deepen international partnerships, and strengthen connections that will shape the future of our tourism and business events sectors. We welcome the global exhibitions community to the Kingdom and look forward to building on this momentum to create lasting opportunities for our tourism and wider economy.”
Her Excellency also highlighted Bahrain’s distinctive blend of authentic heritage, warm hospitality, diverse attractions, and culinary experiences, supported by advanced infrastructure and a destination that is easy to explore.
The 93rd UFI Global Congress sessions address the changing global business environment and the opportunities available to the exhibitions industry as it works to strengthen confidence, adapt to emerging trends, and accelerate growth.
In addition, plenary discussions and professional exchanges support the development of the partnerships and innovative ideas that can create permanent value for the regional and global exhibitions industry.
Beyond the Congress sessions, the gathering is expected to facilitate networking opportunities and new connections among exhibition organisers, venue operators, and industry stakeholders, reinforcing Bahrain’s position as a gateway to business opportunities across the Gulf and wider region.
Hosting the 93rd UFI Global Congress also provides an opportunity to showcase Exhibition World Bahrain’s capabilities as a venue for major international exhibitions, conventions, and business gatherings.
Since its opening in November 2022, EWB has contributed to boosting Bahrain’s events infrastructure and expanding the Kingdom’s capacity to welcome regional and international gatherings
