International tourism forum “Uzbekistan – Bahrain”: strengthening partnership in the tourism sector

On July 9, 2025, the international tourism forum “Uzbekistan – Bahrain” was successfully held in the Kingdom of Bahrain. The event was organized by the Committee for Tourism of Uzbekistan with the support of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Saudi Arabia, accredited to Bahrain. This significant event served as an effective platform for promoting Uzbekistan’s tourism potential in the Persian Gulf countries and expanding bilateral cooperation in the tourism sector.

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The forum brought together representatives of ministries and government agencies, tourism companies, airlines, chambers of commerce and industry, as well as business communities from both countries. Welcoming remarks were delivered by Umid Shadiev, Chairman of the Tourism Committee, Nodirjon Turgunov, Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Bahrain (residing in Riyadh), and Fatima Jaafar Al‑Sayrafi, Minister of Tourism of Bahrain. In their speeches, they emphasized the importance of enhancing collaboration, exchanging experience, and implementing joint tourism initiatives.

As part of the forum, a presentation titled “Uzbekistan: Pearl of the Silk Road” was held, showcasing the country’s historical and cultural heritage, tourist routes, as well as new opportunities in pilgrimage, medical, gastronomic, and eco-tourism. Special attention was given to infrastructure development and UNESCO World Heritage sites in Uzbekistan.

A key component of the event was the “B2B” and “G2B” meetings between tourism industry representatives from both countries. These meetings facilitated direct contacts, discussions on organizing tours, and the potential for info-tours for Bahraini tour operators and media representatives.

Additionally, a thematic photo exhibition titled “New Uzbekistan” was organized for forum participants and the general public. The exhibition highlighted the ongoing transformations in the country, including tourism development, infrastructure modernization, cultural heritage preservation, and the promotion of national traditions and cuisine.

The international tourism forum “Uzbekistan – Bahrain” demonstrated strong interest from the Bahraini audience in Uzbekistan, strengthened its image as an attractive travel destination, and opened up new horizons for expanding regional partnership.