For the first time, the Middle East has played host to the prestigious World Forum on Gastronomy Tourism, an event that brings together policymakers, chefs, and industry experts to discuss the future of food and travel. Held in Bahrain, this forum marks a significant milestone in the region’s growing influence in global culinary tourism.
Why Bahrain? A Rising Culinary Hub
While the Middle East has long been recognized for its rich culinary traditions, including dishes like mezze, lamb mandi, and saffron-infused desserts, the region has historically been underrepresented in the global gastronomy tourism space. By hosting this international forum, Bahrain is positioning itself as a key player in the industry, showcasing the Middle East’s potential for food-driven tourism.
The country’s strategic location, blending Persian, Arab, and Indian influences, makes it a natural choice for a forum focused on the interplay between tradition and innovation in global cuisine.
Key Themes and Discussions
The 2024 forum addressed some of the most pressing issues shaping the future of food tourism, including:
Sustainability in Culinary Tourism – Experts discussed how destinations can balance tourism growth with local food preservation, responsible sourcing, and reducing environmental impact.
Technology’s Role in Gastronomy Travel – The forum explored how AI-driven recommendations, blockchain food traceability, and digital culinary experiences are reshaping the way people discover and experience global cuisines.
Empowering Local Communities – A major theme was how culinary tourism can empower small-scale farmers, artisans, and traditional cooks by creating direct economic opportunities.
The Future of Middle Eastern Cuisine in Global Tourism – With an increasing number of travelers seeking authentic and immersive food experiences, the Middle East is embracing its diverse culinary heritage as a tourism driver.
A Turning Point for Culinary Tourism
The forum underscored the growing role of gastronomy in shaping tourism economies, as travelers continue to prioritize food as a primary reason to visit new destinations. With initiatives like this, the Middle East is poised to attract more food travelers, foster cross-cultural exchanges, and elevate its position as a gastronomic powerhouse.
As Bahrain and other Middle Eastern nations integrate food tourism into their economic strategies, they are setting the stage for a new era of culinary discovery, sustainability, and cultural appreciation on a global scale.
Reference: www.unwto.org
