"Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB), the Middle East's largest and newest exhibition and convention center, is delighted to announce its achievement of the "World's Leading New Exhibition and Convention Centre 2023" at the World Travel Awards 2023.
Dr. Nasser Qaedi, CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), accepted the prestigious award during the World Travel Awards 2023 Grand Final Gala Ceremony at Burj Al Arab in Dubai on December 1, 2023. The event was attended by HE Philip Joseph Pierre, the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, tourism ministers, and global travel leaders.
Exhibition World Bahrain secured the internationally recognized award, surpassing Bharat Mandapam, India, and Tākina Wellington Convention and Exhibition Centre, New Zealand. This victory further solidifies the Kingdom of Bahrain's position as the leading global hub for the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry. EWB's versatility, ultramodern amenities, and innovative services cater to a wide array of events.
The award coincides with EWB's 1st anniversary, celebrating a series of remarkable milestones. The venue has become a sought-after destination for prestigious events, hosting diverse gatherings such as large-scale exhibitions, conventions, conferences, congresses, grand weddings, live concerts, product launches, seminars, and more.
Strategically located in Bahrain's vibrant Sakhir area, EWB is part of the Kingdom's emerging hub for events, sports, and entertainment. Adjacent to the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), Al Dana Amphitheatre, and the upcoming Bahrain International Sports City, EWB offers easy access to the new Bahrain International Airport, over 18,000 hotel rooms, and various attractions and dining experiences.
Dr. Nasser Qaedi remarked, "Receiving this coveted award at the WTA ceremony is a privilege. This accomplishment reaffirms EWB's exceptional performance and strides in the MICE industry, aligning with Bahrain's tourism strategy 2022-2026 objectives."
Dr. Qaedi added, "With mega tourism projects underway, Bahrain is solidifying its position as a sought-after destination in the next five years, supported by well-developed infrastructure, unique attractions, and enticing promotional packages."
Dr. Debbie Kristiansen, General Manager of Exhibition World Bahrain, expressed immense pride in achieving success within a year of the venue's operation. She highlighted EWB's continuous pursuit of excellence in attracting major global events to Bahrain.
Dr. Kristiansen said, "Thanks to BTEA's clear vision and the venue's world-class facilities, we are heading into brighter years, elevating partner and visitor experiences and garnering further recognition. We continue to receive high interest from international clients and event organizers, actively contributing to Bahrain's business tourism and impacting the national economy."
In 2024, EWB will host the 9th World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, the world's largest gastronomy tourism event, and the 29th edition of Routes World, one of the world's biggest civil aviation expos.
Since its opening in November 2022, EWB has garnered international recognition and numerous awards, including the Eventseum Hall of Fame's 2021 Global Innovation Award and re-entry into the top 100 in the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Global Rankings, marking the highest ranking for Bahrain in the last decade. EWB is a proud member of 12 international organizations and associations specializing in the MICE and business tourism sectors.