Routes 2024: Connecting Aviation Innovators
Bahrain is poised to welcome a distinguished gathering of aviation experts and decision-makers at the 29th edition of Routes World 2024. The three-day event opens today (October 6) at the Exhibition World Bahrain.
This prestigious event is anticipated to attract over 2,500 officials and decision-makers representing major airlines, airports, and global travel and tourism agencies.
The selection of Bahrain as the host for this exhibition and conference highlights its strong reputation for facilitating major international events, as well as its appeal as a strategic tourist destination on both regional and global fronts. This achievement is a reflection of the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and the proactive government initiatives led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, said Tourism Minister and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) chairperson Fatima Al Sairafi. She said that hosting Routes World 2024 affirms the kingdom of Bahrain’s rising prominence in the MICE tourism sector and solidifies its status as a leading global hub for aviation.
She emphasised that this significant milestone aligns with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, which prioritises economic diversification and elevating the tourism sector as a central pillar for national economic growth. She further explained that the successful organisation of such pivotal events directly supports the realisation of Bahrain’s Tourism Strategy 2022-2026, particularly in delivering the commitment to attracting international exhibitions.
Routes World 2024, she noted, will not only elevate Bahrain’s standing in the global MICE tourism landscape but also contribute to generating business opportunities, enhancing visitors’ experiences, and supporting the national economy.
She expressed confidence that the event would stimulate growth within the tourism sector and reinforce Bahrain’s position as a regional and global hub for hosting major events across various sectors.She pointed to the country’s diverse attractions, including archaeological sites that reflect Bahrain’s deep-rooted heritage, alongside vibrant entertainment facilities representing its dynamic present.
“We are committed to ensuring the successful execution of this landmark event, recognised as the largest of its kind in the aviation sector,” said BTEA chief executive Sarah Ahmed Buhiji.
“Our planning is aligned with the aspirations outlined in our Tourism Strategy 2022-2026, which aims to bolster Bahrain’s reputation as a premier regional tourist destination, increase business tourism from various global markets, diversify our tourism offerings, and promote the Exhibitions World Bahrain as a state-of-the-art venue for hosting large-scale international events.”
Routes World 2024 will feature a variety of discussion sessions and specialised workshops focused on the aviation and air transport industry.
The agenda will include opportunities for intensive networking discussions and the exchange of insights aimed at advancing the aviation sector both regionally and globally.
Conference sessions will focus on emerging trends within the air transport sector, competitive dynamics among airlines, logistics companies, and airports worldwide.
Key topics will encompass developments in air traffic, financial and operational performance of airlines, prospective growth opportunities, as well as discussions surrounding privatisation, mergers, sustainability initiatives, and environmental preservation.
“We are optimistic that Routes World 2024 will witness robust participation from major airlines, logistics providers, and airports worldwide, presenting unique opportunities to shape the future of the aviation and air transport industry on both regional and global fronts,” said Bahrain Airport Company chief executive Mohammed Yousif Al Binfalah.
“Through a series of discussion sessions and specialised workshops, we will highlight the latest trends within this vital sector while facilitating intensive dialogues that will present diverse perspectives aimed at advancing the industry.
This pioneering event is poised to make a lasting contribution to innovation and development in the aviation arena.”
With Manama being named the capital of Gulf tourism this year, the presence of numerous decision-makers in aviation and tourism at Routes 2024, presents an exceptional opportunity to highlight Bahrain as a modern and sophisticated destination.