Manama : The 9th UN Tourism World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism opened today at Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB), bringing together global leaders, industry experts, and stakeholders to explore the transformative role of gastronomy tourism in fostering cultural exchange, sustainability, and economic development. The event, held for the first time in the Middle East, runs from November 18-19.
The opening ceremony was attended by Dr. Ramzan bin Abdullah Al Noaimi, Minister of Information, and Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism and Chairperson of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA). The forum marks a significant milestone for Bahrain as it continues to enhance its global standing as a tourism hub.
In her remarks, Minister Al Sairafi expressed gratitude to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for his unwavering support in advancing Bahrain’s tourism strategy. She also thanked the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) for selecting Bahrain as the host, calling it a reflection of the Kingdom’s commitment to promoting sustainable tourism.
“Gastronomy tourism is more than an industry; it is a bridge that connects cultures, celebrates diversity, and empowers communities,” she said.
The minister noted that Bahrain’s tourism sector experienced significant growth in 2023, with a 25% rise in visitor numbers, a 32% increase in revenues, and a 10.7% growth in accommodation and food services. The Minister emphasised that gastronomy is not just an experience but a key economic driver, strengthening Bahrain’s tourism economy.
She commended the forum for bringing together over 500 participants from more than 50 countries, describing it as a platform for dialogue and collaboration that will inspire innovative solutions for the sector.
Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary General of the UNWTO, delivered a speech in which he highlighted the growing global importance of gastronomy tourism and its influence on destination branding and tourism strategies.
He commended Bahrain for its warm hospitality and highlighted the forum’s role in sharing best practices and promoting collaboration. Pololikashvili emphasised that gastronomy tourism now encompasses a wide value chain, integrating food production, cultural heritage, and economic opportunities, and called on participants to work together to shape a sustainable future for the industry.
Joxe Mari Aizega, Director General of the Basque Culinary Centre, underscored the evolution of gastronomy tourism, highlighting its broad impact on food production, hospitality, and tourism. He noted the importance of education and innovation in driving progress in the gastronomy sector, calling for greater collaboration to build a more sustainable and inclusive future.
During the ceremony, a special segment highlighted Bahrain’s participation in the global project “A Tour Around the World’s Gastronomy,” which celebrates the unique culinary traditions of participating countries. The Bahrain edition featured a recipe for the traditional dish Machboos, contributed by Chef Tala Bashmi, who showcased her modern take on the dish in a dedicated brochure unveiled during the ceremony.
The Basque Culinary Centre, in collaboration with the UNWTO, announced the launch of three scholarships for an upcoming specialisation course in designing gastronomic tourism experiences. This initiative aims to foster innovation and professional growth within the gastronomy tourism sector, further aligning with the forum’s focus on advancing education and development.
As part of the ceremony, three new UN Tourism Ambassadors for Gastronomy Tourism were announced. Chef Tala Bashmi from Bahrain, named MENA’s Best Female Chef in 2022, was recognised for her innovative approach to Middle Eastern flavours and her contributions to promoting sustainable gastronomy. Joining her were Chef Rudolf Štefan from Croatia, renowned for his focus on local ingredients and heritage, and Chef Diego Guerrero from Spain, celebrated for his innovative culinary techniques. The ambassadors were commended for their dedication to preserving culinary heritage, embracing sustainable practices, and making a positive impact on their communities.
The forum includes panel discussions, workshops, and networking sessions focusing on topics such as sustainability, innovation, and gastronomy as a driver of economic growth. The topics discussed align with Bahrain’s vision to position itself as a global tourism destination while promoting sustainable practices and celebrating its rich cultural heritage.
