Bahrain will host the 9th edition of the United NationsWorld Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, theworld’s largest global gastronomy tourism event. 

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

The forum will bring together a distinguished group of localand international culinary and food tourism experts. It will feature a diverserange of activities, including panel discussions, workshops, and an exhibitionshowcasing the latest innovations in food tourism.

The event will provide a platform for the exchange ofknowledge, expertise, and best practices within the industry while enhancingcooperation among stakeholders worldwide.

The forum will showcase the rich and diverse culinaryheritage of Bahrain, specifically, and the Gulf region, in general. It willalso highlight the growing importance of gastronomy tourism in the region,positioning it as a leading global destination in this field in the years tocome.

The Economic Quarterly Report for the first quarter of 2024indicated that the accommodation and food services sector in Bahrainexperienced a 10.7% year-on-year growth, reflecting the sector's contributionto the national economy. This event is expected to catalyse new and innovativeopportunities for collaboration and further propel growth within this dynamicsector.

On this occasion, Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister ofTourism and Chairperson of BTEA, expressed her pride in hosting the World Forumon Gastronomy Tourism for the first time in the Middle East, marking a significantmilestone in Bahrain’s strategy to diversify its tourism offerings.

"This prestigious event is part of our commitment, aspart of Team Bahrain, to diversify the tourism sector and solidify theKingdom’s position as a leader in gastronomy tourism, Al Sairafi said.

"We aim to establish Bahrain as a leading destinationfor food enthusiasts and culinary tourism as the World Forum on GastronomyTourism presents an exceptional opportunity for Bahrain to leverage its richculinary heritage, exchange knowledge, and develop skills in this field."

The forum is composed to feature several announcementsduring the event regarding the opening of new international restaurants in theKingdom of Bahrain, as well as noteworthy partnerships among stakeholders atlocal, regional and global levels.