Bahrain turned the spotlight on its heritage and tourism ambitions at an international gathering that brought together some of the world’s most extraordinary historic cars.
Concours of Elegance 2026 took place from September 4 to 6 at Hampton Court Palace in the UK, just outside of London.
Sixty of the world’s rarest motor cars, ranging from the very earliest pioneering models to the present day were brought by the major historic car collectors from around the world to compete for the highly coveted ‘Best of Show’ award.
The kingdom’s participation came as part of efforts to enhance tourism and consolidate ties with the UK.
Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) chief executive officer Sara Buhiji affirmed that the support and patronage extended to the kingdom’s tourism sector by His Majesty King Hamad and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, have contributed to strengthening Bahrain’s position as a leading destination for hosting high-profile international events and reinforcing its presence on the regional and global tourism map.
“Bahrain’s participation in international tourism events provides an important opportunity to showcase its diverse tourism and cultural offerings,” said Ms Buhiji.
“It highlights the kingdom’s ability to deliver distinctive experiences that combine authentic Bahraini identity with excellence in organising world-class events.”
Concours of Elegance is a traditional event where rare, vintage, and prestigious vehicles are displayed and judged on their appearance, historical accuracy, and restoration quality.
A visitor to the pavilion learning about traditional Bahraini craft
The concept began when French aristocrats paraded ornate, hand-crafted horse-drawn carriages through Paris parks during holidays.
As horse-drawn carriages evolved into motor cars, the gatherings transformed into beauty pageants and competitions for automobile owners.
Today, elite events display priceless automotive sculptures and draw global collectors.
As part of the event, Ms Buhiji presented the BTEA Award to a 1939 Voisin C30 Saloon, one of only five surviving examples of the model worldwide and the only one that retains a unique bodywork from the time of its manufacture.
The Royal Bahrain Concours Award was also presented to the 1933 Aston Martin Le Mans, regarded as one of the most historically significant surviving Aston Martin cars.
“Selecting and honouring the two cars reflects a commitment to celebrating automotive heritage, craftsmanship and outstanding design,” said Ms Buhiji.
“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 enjoyed a prominent presence at the event, providing visitors with an opportunity to discover various aspects of the kingdom’s cultural identity and heritage.
It contained traditional handicrafts, entertainment performances and interactive experiences. The pavilion also promoted some of Bahrain’s leading tourism destinations and experiences.
Ms Buhiji affirmed that BTEA’s participation in the event provided an opportunity to promote the second edition of the Royal Bahrain Concours to be staged later this year. The event is being organised by Thorough Events, in collaboration with BTEA.
“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 said.
“It will also bring together leading car clubs from across the GCC, alongside entertainment activities and experiences showcasing Bahraini hospitality and culture.
“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.”
- The second edition of the Royal Bahrain Concours will be held under the patronage of HRH Prince Salman on November 6 and 7 at the Royal Golf Club in Riffa Views.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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