Jordan highlighted the richness of its culinary tradition by taking center stage at the ninth edition of the World Food Tourism Forum, which took place on November 18-19 at the Bahrain World Exhibition Center in Manama. Hosted for the first time in the Middle East, the event promoted by the World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) and the Basque Culinary Center (BCC), together with the Government of Bahrain, explored how food tourism can help build a strong image for destinations and served as a crucial platform to promote food and wine tourism in the region.
Jordan Tourism Board Director General Abdul Razzaq Arabiyat addressed the forum as an official speaker, joined by Bahrain’s Minister of Tourism, the Secretary General of the World Tourism Organization, and a distinguished audience of tourism industry ambassadors and experts. In his remarks, Arabiyat highlighted the importance of integrating Jordanian cuisine into tourism experiences, considering it a key pillar of the Hashemite Kingdom’s cultural identity. “Our diverse culinary heritage is a powerful tool to enrich tourism offerings and attract travelers seeking authentic and distinctive experiences,” he said. He also highlighted how global events such as the Forum provide a strategic opportunity to engage with global investors and partners, aiming for expansion and innovation in the sector.
Among the protagonists of Jordanian cuisine, Arabiyat recalled mansaf, the country's signature dish, which in 2022 received the prestigious UNESCO recognition as an intangible cultural heritage. "Mansaf embodies the values of generosity and hospitality that define Jordanian identity," he added, also highlighting the rich variety of traditional dishes that reflect the geographical and cultural diversity of the Kingdom.
The Forum hosted a series of activities, including workshops, live cooking demonstrations and round tables dedicated to food and wine tourism as a lever for sustainable development. Agreements and partnerships were also signed to promote innovation and growth in the sector, both regionally and globally.
Jordan's participation in the World Food Tourism Forum reaffirms its commitment to positioning itself as a destination of excellence for food tourism, enhancing the deep connection between culture, tradition and hospitality.
