KUWAIT: The 13th edition of the Horeca Kuwait Exhibition opened Tuesday under the patronage of the Minister of Information, Culture, and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi. Organized by Leaders Group for Consulting and Development at the Kuwait International Fairgrounds, the event brings together hundreds of local and international experts in the hospitality and tourism sectors.
In his remarks at the opening, Dr Nasser Muhaisen, Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Information, emphasized the ministry’s strong commitment to organizing specialized exhibitions and high-quality events, aligning with Kuwait’s ongoing support for national sectors. He stated that the exhibition represents an exceptional opportunity to enhance cooperation between local and international companies. It also facilitates the exchange of expertise and knowledge, contributing to the growth of the hospitality sector, which plays a key role in driving economic progress both in Kuwait and the region.
Enhancing Kuwait’s economy
Dr Muhaisen also highlighted that the exhibition serves not only as a venue for showcasing products and services but also as a meeting point for innovators, experts, and decision-makers. He stressed that the event fosters an environment conducive to development and excellence. Furthermore, he noted that the exhibition reinforces Kuwait’s position as a leading hub for attracting global investments in the hospitality sector, supporting efforts to diversify the economy and improve service quality in line with international standards.
Tourism sector potential
Basmah Al-Mayman, Regional Director for the Middle East at the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), pointed out that Kuwait’s tourism sector has been attracting visitors since the 1960s, thanks to the country’s rich resources and appeal. She remarked that this year’s exhibition has garnered significant attention from stakeholders in the hospitality and tourism industries, reflecting the government’s focus on advancing tourism. Al-Mayman also emphasized the role of specialized exhibitions in driving development, boosting trade, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, and motivating youth in the region. She stressed Kuwait’s potential as a global tourist destination, highlighting the importance of cooperation between GCC countries to formulate an integrated investment and tourism strategy.
Global participation
Nabilah Al-Anjari, CEO of Leaders Group for Consulting and Development and head of the exhibition’s organizing committee, noted that the exhibition includes a wide range of activities tailored to meet the needs of professionals in the hospitality sector at local, regional, and global levels. Al-Anjari added that the exhibition serves as a dynamic platform for exchanging ideas and raising awareness about the role of hospitality in diversifying Kuwait’s income sources, creating job opportunities for Kuwaiti youth, and offering skilled labor from various fields in this evolving sector. This year’s exhibition features over 100 participating companies, 500 global brands, and more than 8,000 specialized visitors. It will include six seminars on topics such as tourism, sustainability, food, the environment, hospitality, and branding, with 30 experts providing insights into modernizing the hospitality industry.
Sector Growth
The exhibition will also host four competitions, including culinary contests judged by 15 international judges, with over 250 chefs participating, alongside competitions in barista, mocktails, and housekeeping. These diverse activities reflect the growing significance of the hospitality sector in the global economy.
Al-Anjari concluded by highlighting the positive impact of regional and international competitions on Kuwait’s hospitality sector. She noted that events like the "Gulf Zain 26” tournament, which attracted nearly 69,000 visitors to Kuwait, have generated significant economic returns and boosted cash flow. She anticipates continued vibrancy and success in the sector this year. — KUNA