Bahrain’s Growing Role in Global Tourism Highlighted at World Travel Awards 2025, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 6, 2025

Bahrain, a gem in the Arabian Gulf, recently hosted the prestigious World Travel Awards (WTA) Grand Final 2025, marking a significant milestone for the Kingdom’s tourism and hospitality sector. The event, which took place at the newly built Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB), brought together global travel and tourism leaders, underscoring Bahrain’s increasing prominence as a world-class destination for international tourism, business, and cultural exchange.

A Landmark Event for Bahrain’s Tourism Industry

The World Travel Awards Grand Final Gala Ceremony 2025, held on December 6th, was the culmination of WTA’s Grand Tour, a global journey that recognized excellence in the travel and tourism industry. Regional WTA ceremonies were previously held in destinations such as Tanzania, Cancun, Saint Lucia, Hong Kong, Sardinia, and Dubai. These regional winners now gathered in Bahrain to compete for the coveted global awards, the most prestigious honors in the travel and tourism sector.

The Grand Final ceremony not only celebrates industry leaders but also highlights Bahrain’s strategic importance in the global tourism landscape. This event served as an excellent opportunity for Bahrain to showcase its world-class infrastructure, hospitality, and rich cultural heritage. As the host destination, Bahrain’s role in the global travel scene was further solidified, attracting attention from top figures in the tourism, hospitality, and events industries.

Bahrain’s Rising Appeal in Global Tourism and MICE Sector

Exhibition World Bahrain, where the Grand Final Gala took place, is a key venue in the Kingdom’s growing Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. Serving as Bahrain’s premier MICE destination, the venue is designed to host large-scale international exhibitions, conferences, and major global events. As Bahrain continues to strengthen its position as a regional business hub, EWB plays a crucial role in supporting its economic growth and increasing its global visibility.

Bahrain’s appeal is multi-faceted. Known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural heritage, the Kingdom is also recognized for its growing tourism infrastructure. The country has become a popular destination for both leisure and business travelers, offering a seamless blend of tradition and modernity. Manama, the capital, is a bustling center of culture, shopping, dining, and nightlife, attracting international tourists seeking both relaxation and excitement. Bahrain’s status as an international MICE hub enhances its reputation and positions it as a leading destination for global business and networking.

Bahrain’s Cultural Heritage and Hospitality on Full Display

Sara Ahmed Buhiji, CEO of Bahrain Tourism & Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), remarked that hosting the WTA Grand Final in Bahrain was a landmark event for the Kingdom. She emphasized that it showcased Bahrain’s exceptional hospitality and rich cultural heritage. “The event underscores Bahrain’s rise as a premier MICE and tourism destination in the region,” Buhiji said, highlighting the importance of Bahrain’s expanding tourism sector in fostering international collaboration, networking, and business excellence.

Bahrain’s tourism potential extends beyond just business and MICE tourism. The Kingdom’s cultural experiences are a significant draw for tourists. From the historical sites of the Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to the traditional Bahraini souks, visitors can immerse themselves in the Kingdom’s vibrant history and unique cultural identity. Furthermore, the country’s stunning coastline, luxury resorts, and world-class dining options make it an ideal destination for both business and leisure travelers.

International Tourism in Bahrain: The Growing Impact

The World Travel Awards event was not just about celebrating winners but also about showcasing the future potential of Bahrain’s tourism industry. With global travel leaders in attendance, Bahrain was able to make valuable connections and partnerships that will further enhance its tourism offerings. The event underscored the growing importance of tourism in the country’s economic diversification strategy.

Tourism in Bahrain is on an upward trajectory, with the country continuing to invest in its tourism infrastructure and offerings. As one of the top destinations in the Gulf region, Bahrain is increasingly attracting visitors from Europe, Asia, and beyond, offering everything from cultural experiences to luxury stays, and vibrant nightlife to tranquil escapes.

Enhancing Bahrain’s Global Positioning

For Bahrain, the success of hosting the World Travel Awards Grand Final 2025 is a key milestone in its journey to becoming a top-tier global tourism and business hub. The country’s strategic location in the Middle East, coupled with its growing reputation as a destination for both business and leisure, sets it apart from other regional competitors. The event at Exhibition World Bahrain allowed Bahrain to demonstrate its ability to host world-class events and serve as a major player in the international tourism and business sectors.

Looking ahead, Bahrain’s tourism industry is poised for continued growth. With increased global visibility, strategic investments in infrastructure, and a focus on cultural preservation, Bahrain is positioning itself as an ideal destination for tourists from around the world. The tourism sector is expected to drive further economic development, contributing to the Kingdom’s long-term sustainability and global competitiveness.

Looking Forward: Bahrain as a Premier Global Travel Destination

Bahrain’s success in hosting the World Travel Awards Grand Final and its continuous efforts to enhance its tourism infrastructure signal a promising future for the Kingdom’s tourism industry. The country is poised to become one of the leading travel destinations in the Middle East, attracting international visitors for both business and leisure. The WTA Grand Final Gala Ceremony is a testament to Bahrain’s growing influence in global tourism, showcasing the country’s rich culture, world-class hospitality, and commitment to sustainable growth in the tourism sector.

Bahrain’s Strategic Growth in Tourism and Business

Bahrain’s hosting of the 2025 World Travel Awards Grand Final was not only a momentous event in the Kingdom but served as an unequivocal demonstration of its ambition to increase its global tourism profile. As Bahrain further builds on its strengths in MICE tourism, cultural attractions, and hospitality, the Kingdom is sure to welcome even more international visitors, positioning itself as the leading destination for both corporate and leisure travelers. With further investment in infrastructure, sustainability, and cultural preservation, Bahrain’s future within the global tourism market is indeed bright.