The foundation stone has been laid for the new Bahrain International Exhibition and Convention Centre in Sakhir by HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Prime Minister.

During the ceremony, the Crown Prince said that the rapid development and modernisation confirms that Bahrain is making progress towards achieving its development goals. He also stressed the importance of continuing to promote Bahrain as a key tourism and investment destination, in order to support the comprehensive development that is being led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

The project is being built on a 309,000sqm plot and will consist of a 149,000sqm main building, which will include 10 exhibition areas, totaling 95,000sqm, along with dedicated areas for retail and events. The facility will also include a 4,500sqm conference hall divided into three separate hi-tech rooms, in addition to 27 small and medium-sized conference and meeting rooms.

The Crown Prince noted the significant growth of the exhibition and convention sector has transformed Bahrain into the destination of choice for several high-level international and regional events, as well as corporate activities. He emphasised that the centre reflects the Kingdom’s efforts to increase competitiveness, contribute to economic diversification and growth and meet the aspirations of Bahraini citizens.

Zayed bin Rashid Al Zayani, Minister of Industry, Commerce and Tourism expressed his appreciation for the ongoing support that the Crown Prince has shown towards the project. He added that it will significantly strengthen the Kingdom’s event infrastructure and enable Bahrain to host greater numbers of large events in the future. Hs concluded saying that the convention centre will be a model site characterised by imposing infrastructure, as well as the highest standards in technology and service.