The 29th edition of Routes World, the foremost global event in the aviation industry, opened its doors today at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre, welcoming over 2,300 aviation industry experts from 110 countries including executives of 230 airlines and 530 airports. 

 

Held for the first time in the Kingdom of Bahrain, the event will run until October 8, said the event organiser Bahrain International Airport, which is managed and operated by Bahrain Airport Company (BAC), in partnership with Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) and the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB). 

 

The opening ceremony of Routes World, the prestigious gathering of aviation professionals and industry leaders, was graced by the presence of Mohamed bin Thamer AlKaabi, the Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications; Fatima bint Jaafar Al Sairafi, the Minister of Tourism; Sara Ahmed Buhiji, the CEO of Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, Khalid Hussain Taqi, the Gulf Air Group (GFG) Chairman; and other senior officials.

 

Welcoming aviation experts from across the globe, AlKaabi said Routes World 2024 was a significant event for the sector as it acted as a major platform for crucial discussions on shaping the future of the global aviation industry, enhancing air connectivity, and building upon the achievements of previous editions in this regard. 

 

He further noted that hosting Routes World in the Kingdom of Bahrain for the first time provided participants with a valuable opportunity to witness firsthand the kingdom's potentials, capabilities and strategic location. 

 

"These factors position Bahrain as a key player in shaping a sustainable and thriving global aviation sector," he stated.

 

In her address, Minister Al Sairafi said hosting the Routes World 2024 at the Bahrain International Exhibition Centre represented a significant strategic step towards achieving the objectives outlined in the Tourism Strategy 2022-2026. 

 

"This event aligns with strengthening the ties between the tourism and aviation sectors, recognizing their vital interdependence. Hosting this global conference presents a valuable opportunity for expertise exchange within the aviation industry, contributing to its development," she added.

 

Furthermore, Al Sairafi emphasized that the kingdom consistently strived to be a premier destination for conferences and exhibitions. 

 

"The Bahrain International Exhibition Centre, the most modern in the Middle East, offers a comprehensive array of facilities and services, enabling it to host world-class events. This centre significantly contributes to bolstering Bahrain's robust and well-equipped tourism infrastructure, to accommodate major events," she added.

 

Addressing the gathering, the minister also highlighted the tourism sector's ongoing efforts to solidify Bahrain's position as a leading tourism destination for international events by cultivating an unparalleled environment for their success. 

 

"This aligns with the strategic objectives of realizing Bahrain's Economic Vision 2030, contributing to enhanced economic growth and the advancement of the tourism sector," she added.

 

Bahrain Airport Company CEO Mohamed Yousif AlBinfalah said: "Hosting Routes World 2024 marks a pivotal milestone for the country’s aviation, tourism, and logistics sectors, aligning with the national vision to become a global hub for connectivity and economic growth." 

 

"The event is a perfect example of successful collaboration with the BTEA and EDB to achieve a shared government objective of connecting airports, airlines, and destinations, and positioning Bahrain as a leading tourism hub," stated AlBinfalah.

 

He further said: "Routes World 2024 provides a platform to showcase Bahrain's vision for the future of global air connectivity. With our geographical advantage, cutting-edge infrastructure, and business-friendly environment, this event allows us to position the kingdom as an attractive destination for international carriers and travelers alike."

 

"I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all governmental and private entities that contributed to the Kingdom of Bahrain's successful hosting of the Routes World, showcasing Bahrain's state-of-the-art infrastructure," he added.

 

The 29th edition of Routes World 2024 serves as a strategic platform to strengthen the Kingdom of Bahrain's position as a distinctive tourist destination. The event is poised to drive passenger traffic growth and support the government's vision of establishing a thriving tourism sector. Over the course of three days, more than 9,000 meetings will take place, bringing together representatives from 80 of the world's top 100 airlines. The event will also feature over 40 speakers, including keynote addresses from five airline CEOs.

 

The opening day of Routes World 2024 featured engaging panel discussions with prominent industry leaders on the rapid growth trajectory of the Arabian Gulf region. Gulf Air Group (GFG) Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Jeffrey Goh, participated in an insightful discussion on navigating the future of airline development and achieving success in a rapidly expanding market.

 

Another panel discussion delved into the expanding role of technology in logistics, where AlBinfalah, spoke about the integral role of air freight and cargo operations in the evolution of air travel and airport management, highlighting future opportunities for enhancing global connectivity and operational efficiency.-TradeArabia News Service