BTEA CEO highlights Bahrain’s growing global tourism presence and promotes the Royal Bahrain Concours 2026
Ms Sara Ahmed Buhiji, Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), affirmed that the support and patronage extended to the Kingdom of Bahrain’s tourism sector by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, King of the Kingdom of Bahrain, and the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, have contributed to strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a leading destination for hosting high-profile international events and reinforcing its presence on the regional and global tourism map.
She explained that the Kingdom of Bahrain’s participation in international tourism events provides an important opportunity to showcase its diverse tourism and cultural offerings and highlight its ability to deliver distinctive experiences that combine authentic Bahraini identity with excellence in organising world-class events.
The CEO’s remarks were made on the sidelines of her attendance at the Concours of Elegance 2026, hosted at Hampton Court Palace in the United Kingdom from September 4 to 6, 2026. The event featured a collection of some of the world’s rarest and most distinguished classic and historic cars and attracted leading collectors, experts and enthusiasts in the field.
As part of the event, the CEO presented the BTEA Award to the 1939 Voisin C30 Saloon, one of only five surviving examples of the model worldwide and the only one that retains this unique bodywork from the time of its manufacture. The Royal Bahrain Concours Award was also presented to the 1933 Aston Martin Le Mans, regarded as one of the most historically significant surviving Aston Martin cars.
Buhiji noted that selecting and honouring the two cars reflects a commitment to celebrating automotive heritage, craftsmanship and outstanding design. It also embodies the ongoing collaboration between BTEA and Thorough Events, the organiser of both the Concours of Elegance and the Royal Bahrain Concours.
The Kingdom of Bahrain’s pavilion enjoyed a prominent presence at the event, offering visitors an opportunity to discover various aspects of the Kingdom’s cultural identity and heritage through traditional handicrafts, entertainment performances, and interactive experiences. The pavilion also promoted some of Bahrain’s leading tourism destinations and experiences.
In this context, Buhiji affirmed that BTEA’s participation in the event provided an opportunity to promote the second edition of the Royal Bahrain Concours, which will be held under the patronage of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister on November 6 and 7, 2026, at the Royal Golf Club in Riffa. Thorough Events, in collaboration with BTEA organise the event.
The BTEA CEO stated that the upcoming edition of the Royal Bahrain Concours will build on the success of its inaugural edition and offer a diverse two-day experience featuring an exceptional selection of rare, classic and contemporary cars from around the world. It will also bring together leading car clubs from across the GCC, alongside entertainment activities and experiences showcasing Bahraini hospitality and culture.
Buhiji invited car enthusiasts, collectors and interested visitors from the UK and around the world to visit the Kingdom of Bahrain and attend the Royal Bahrain Concours 2026, where they can enjoy an exceptional experience combining the finest examples of automotive heritage with authentic Bahraini hospitality.
Related Posts