Bahrain promoted its national heritage and tourism ambitions at the Concours of Elegance 2026, an event held from September 4 to 6 at Hampton Court Palace in the United Kingdom. The showcase aimed to highlight Bahrain's cultural offerings and attract international visitors. Sara Buhiji, chief executive officer of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA), oversaw the delegation's participation. The BTEA's presence at the prestigious UK event showed the kingdom's strategic efforts to position itself as a premier global destination. This participation was specifically designed to enhance tourism and consolidate ties with the United Kingdom, leveraging the event's international platform to showcase Bahrain's unique appeal.
Bahrain's Pavilion and Awards
Sixty of the world’s rarest motor cars competed for the ‘Best of Show’ award during the event. The Concours of Elegance, renowned for bringing together an unparalleled collection of classic vehicles, provided an ideal backdrop for Bahrain's cultural presentation. Ms. Buhiji presented the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) Award to a 1939 Voisin C30 Saloon, a vehicle notable as one of only five surviving examples globally and the sole one retaining its original bodywork. This recognition noted the vehicle's exceptional historical significance and preserved craftsmanship. The Royal Bahrain Concours Award was subsequently presented to the 1933 Aston Martin Le Mans, celebrating another iconic piece of automotive history. Both awards showed Bahrain's appreciation for automotive excellence and its growing role in the international classic car community.
Ms. Buhiji stated that selecting and honoring the two cars reflects "a commitment to celebrating automotive heritage, craftsmanship and outstanding design." She added, "It also embodies the ongoing collaboration between BTEA and Thorough Events, the organiser of both the Concours of Elegance and the Royal Bahrain Concours." The Bahraini pavilion at the event featured traditional handicrafts, entertainment performances, and interactive experiences, promoting Bahrain’s leading tourism destinations and experiences. The pavilion offered visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry of the kingdom, from intricate artisanal crafts to vibrant traditional music and dance. Interactive displays allowed attendees to engage directly with Bahraini culture, fostering a deeper understanding of its heritage. Ms. Buhiji remarked that this notes "the kingdom’s ability to deliver distinctive experiences that combine authentic Bahraini identity with excellence in organising world-class events."
Regarding future events, Ms. Buhiji announced, "The upcoming edition of the Royal Bahrain Concours will build on the success of its inaugural edition and offer a diverse two-day experience featuring an exceptional selection of rare, classic and contemporary cars from around the world." She further explained, "It will also bring together leading car clubs from across the GCC, alongside entertainment activities and experiences showcasing Bahraini hospitality and culture." This full approach aims to create an immersive event that appeals to both automotive enthusiasts and those seeking a unique cultural experience. Ms. Buhiji concluded by extending an invitation: "I invite car enthusiasts, collectors and interested visitors from the UK and around the world to visit Bahrain and attend the Royal Bahrain Concours 2026. They can enjoy an exceptional experience combining the finest examples of automotive heritage with authentic Bahraini hospitality." This invitation serves to reinforce Bahrain's commitment to becoming a global hub for luxury events and cultural exchange.
Promoting Future Events
The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) is actively promoting the second edition of the Royal Bahrain Concours, which is scheduled to take place later this year. This upcoming event aims to continue the success of its inaugural edition by showcasing a diverse selection of rare, classic, and contemporary vehicles. The second edition of the Royal Bahrain Concours will be held on November 6 and 7, with the Royal Golf Club in Riffa Views serving as the venue for the exhibition. This prestigious location is expected to provide an elegant setting for the display of an exquisite collection of automobiles. The BTEA anticipates that the event will attract car enthusiasts and collectors from both the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region and internationally, further solidifying Bahrain's position as a premier destination for automotive events. The event will also feature various entertainment activities and experiences designed to highlight Bahraini hospitality and culture, offering a rich program beyond the automotive displays. The second edition of the Royal Bahrain Concours will be held under the patronage of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, lending significant prestige and support to the initiative. This high-level patronage shows the national importance of the event in promoting Bahrain's tourism and cultural objectives.
Strategic Goals and Vision
The kingdom’s participation at the Concours of Elegance 2026 was specifically aimed at enhancing tourism and consolidating ties with the United Kingdom. This strategic engagement sought to elevate Bahrain's profile as a premier travel destination, attracting international visitors and investors to its diverse cultural and entertainment offerings. By showcasing Bahrain's rich heritage and its capacity to host world-class events, the initiative intended to strengthen the diplomatic and economic relationship between Bahrain and the UK. The presence of a Bahraini delegation and the promotion of events like the Royal Bahrain Concours showed a broader vision to foster long-term partnerships and increase inbound tourism from key markets. The exhibition platform allowed for direct interaction with a global audience, noting Bahrain's unique blend of tradition and modernity, thereby supporting the nation's economic diversification goals beyond oil. This outreach also served to position Bahrain as a hub for luxury events and cultural exchange, reinforcing its status on the international stage. The BTEA's efforts align with Bahrain's wider economic vision, which emphasizes sustainable development and the creation of new opportunities in non-oil sectors. Through such international engagements, Bahrain aims to build enduring relationships and showcase its readiness to welcome global visitors and investments.
