Bahrain’s MICE momentum soars as Exhibition World hosts first ICCA workshop

TDT | Manama                                                     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Fresh off its World’s Leading New Exhibition and Convention Centre 2023 crown, Exhibition World Bahrain (EWB) is poised to make international waves.

On January 22nd, it will host the prestigious International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Workshop, marking a milestone for the Kingdom’s burgeoning MICE industry.

The workshop, a catalyst for regional and global MICE collaborations, gathers a who’s who of the industry - senior leaders from renowned exhibition and convention centres, professional associations, key ICCA members, and other influential organizations.

With Dr. Nasser Ali Qaedi, CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), leading the charge, the event promises high-level dialogue and a roadmap for collective MICE advancement.

Two impactful panels, “The Synergy of Diverse Perspectives” and “Unlocking Bahrain’s MICE Potential”, will dissect industry trends and strategies specific to the association market.

Expert insights will flow from an esteemed ensemble, including Dr. Qaedi, Dr. Debbie Kristiansen (EWB General Manager), Dr. Jeffrey Goh (CEO of Gulf Air Group), and Anju Gomes (ICCA Regional Director ME).

EWB General Manager Dr. Kristiansen exudes excitement, highlighting the “unique platform for collaboration” and “distinguished group of MICE leaders”.

She envisions the workshop as a springboard for the region’s future, fuelled by ICCA’s global network and cutting-edge industry knowledge.

Optimistic sentiment

Dr. Senthil Gopinath, CEO of ICCA, echoes the optimistic sentiment, praising the workshop as a catalyst for innovation and the “acceleration towards an innovative international association and governmental meetings industry”.

He underscores the significance of the event, born from the newly forged Association Relationship Partner agreement with EWB, a testament to its growing international stature.

This inaugural ICCA Workshop in Bahrain is more than just a gathering - it’s a declaration of intent.

It’s a powerful synergy of expertise, ambition, and a shared vision for a thriving MICE future, not just for Bahrain, but for the entire region.