World Travel Awards (WTA) has announced plans to stage its first-ever ceremony in Bahrain. The WTA Grand Final Gala Ceremony 2025 will take place at the landmark Exhibition World Bahrain on 9 December 2025, bringing together global travel and tourism leaders to recognise and celebrate the industry’s best of the best.
WTA’s debut aligns with Bahrain’s growing focus as a tourism hub, with the sector projected to contribute 11.4 percent to the nation’s GDP by 2026.
Linking the East and West, Bahrain is an archipelago of 33 islands in the Arabian Gulf. Its strategic position has made it one of the region’s most significant commercial crossroads for over 4,000 years, serving as a trading hub and centre for the pearl-diving industry.
Manama, Bahrain’s bustling capital, is a global centre for both business and leisure travellers, offering a gateway to Bahraini culture, history, shopping, and nightlife. Visitors can explore the historic Bahrain Fort, browse artisan markets, and immerse themselves in Manama’s thriving arts scene. The Kingdom’s blend of luxury venues and cultural heritage also makes it an increasingly popular destination for weddings.
Exhibition World Bahrain is a strategic catalyst for Bahrain’s economic growth, playing a pivotal role in positioning the Kingdom as a leading MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) destination.
The WTA Grand Final Gala Ceremony will mark the climax of the WTA Grand Tour 2025, a global search for the world’s finest travel organisations. Regional ceremonies are taking place in Dar es Salaam (Tanzania), Cancún (Mexico), Hong Kong and Dubai (UAE).
Graham Cooke, Founder, World Travel Awards, says: “I am honoured that World Travel Awards is heading to Bahrain for the first time, reflecting the Kingdom’s incredible tourism potential. Bahrain is a fascinating emerging destination, and I look forward to welcoming travel industry leaders from across the world to experience its many charms.”
Sarah Ahmed Buhiji, CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, expressed enthusiasm about Exhibition World Bahrain hosting the World Travel Awards for the first time: “This is a significant achievement for Exhibition World Bahrain and highlights our dedication to promoting the Kingdom as a key destination for MICE events in the Middle East. This prestigious event will provide invaluable opportunities for networking and collaboration, further solidifying Bahrain’s position in the MICE sector and showcasing our commitment to exceptional hospitality and cultural heritage.”
Voting for the World Travel Awards 2025 is open for categories in Africa, Caribbean, Indian Ocean, Middle East and North America, with the remaining regions set to open on 1 April.
World Travel Awards is still accepting late entries for all regions. Organisations interested in participating can submit their entries at worldtravelawards.com/enter.
