Her Excellency Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism of the Kingdom of Bahrain, received a senior delegation from the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) on September 02, 2026. The meeting took place in Sakhir, Kingdom of Bahrain, as the nation reviews its full preparations to host the 93rd UFI Global Congress. This significant international event is scheduled to be held in the Kingdom of Bahrain from November 2 to 5, 2026. The discussions focused on ensuring the successful execution of the congress, which will gather global exhibition industry leaders in the region. The meeting showed the careful planning and collaborative efforts underway to ensure the event's success and reinforce Bahrain's growing reputation as a premier destination for international business gatherings.
Congress Site Inspection and Venue Excellence
The UFI delegation conducted a thorough tour of Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB) to review its advanced facilities and assess the preparations for the upcoming Congress. This inspection was a critical component of the planning process, allowing UFI representatives to gain firsthand insight into the venue's capabilities. Concurrently, the delegation visited several key locations across the Kingdom of Bahrain that are scheduled to host various activities and ancillary events alongside the main Congress. These visits ensured that all aspects of the delegate experience, from accommodation to social functions, are meticulously planned and executed.
Exhibition World Bahrain, which was inaugurated in November 2022, has rapidly drew international recognition since its opening. The venue was named the World's Leading New Exhibition and Convention Centre for 2023, a testament to its modern infrastructure and capacity to host large-scale events. Additionally, it has been recognized as the Middle East's Leading Large-Scale Wedding Venue for 2024, noting its versatility and appeal across different event categories. EWB's Convention Centre is specifically equipped with a Grand Hall designed for major events, including plenary sessions and large-scale exhibitions. Adjacent to the Grand Hall, a sophisticated Meeting Hub offers 19 meeting rooms of varying sizes, providing flexible spaces for diverse congress activities, breakout sessions, and specialized workshops. The full nature of these facilities ensures that the 93rd UFI Global Congress will have ample space and resources to accommodate its extensive program and numerous attendees.
Strategic Importance and Enhanced Coordination
Hosting the 93rd UFI Global Congress marks a significant milestone for Bahrain, representing an important step in strengthening its position as a leading destination for business tourism and events. This strategic initiative aligns with the Kingdom's broader vision to diversify its economy and enhance its global standing in the MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector. The Kingdom's preparations for the upcoming Congress are advancing through close coordination with a variety of relevant stakeholders, including government ministries, local businesses, and service providers. This collaborative approach aims to ensure all logistical and operational aspects are meticulously managed, reflecting Bahrain's unwavering commitment to delivering a successful and memorable event for all participants.
The event is expected to draw global leaders from the exhibition industry, further enhancing Bahrain's profile on the international stage and fostering opportunities for economic growth and knowledge exchange. This strategic focus aligns with broader national objectives to diversify the economy and boost the tourism sector, positioning Bahrain as a hub for international business and cultural exchange. The coordination efforts involve multiple entities working together smoothly to facilitate a smooth and enriching experience for all delegates and participants attending this high-profile gathering. Such careful planning is key for an event of this magnitude, which is anticipated to attract a diverse group of industry professionals from around the world. The successful execution of the Congress will not only showcase Bahrain's capabilities as a host nation but also contribute significantly to its economic development and international reputation.
Industry Perspectives and Future Outlook
The recent meeting concerning the 93rd UFI Global Congress was held in Sakhir, Kingdom of Bahrain, as preparations continue for the international event. The congress is scheduled to convene in Bahrain this November, bringing together global leaders from the exhibition industry. Exhibition World Bahrain will serve as the premier venue for the 93rd UFI Global Congress, leveraging its world-class facilities to provide an optimal environment for discussions, networking, and industry advancements. The selection of Bahrain as the host country shows its growing prominence in the global events landscape and its commitment to fostering innovation within the exhibition sector. The event is poised to offer a unique platform for industry professionals to share insights, explore new trends, and forge valuable partnerships, contributing to the continued growth and evolution of the global exhibition industry. Bahrain looks forward to welcoming delegates and showcasing its hospitality and advanced infrastructure.
