Royal Opening Highlights National Priorities
His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa officially inaugurated the 8th Bahrain International Agricultural and Animal Production Exhibition (Mara'ee 2025) during a special ceremony held last night, December 8, 2025. The prestigious event, which opens its doors to the public today, December 9, and continues until December 13, is hosted at the Bahrain International Endurance Village in Zallaq.
During the opening, King Hamad underscored Bahrain's unwavering commitment to bolstering its agricultural and livestock sectors. He stated that the Kingdom places 'special attention and the highest priority on supporting and developing the agricultural and livestock sector, as a fundamental pillar of comprehensive development and national food security'. His Majesty also lauded the government's initiatives, led by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, which are designed to enhance food security and foster agricultural innovation.
A Platform for Agricultural Advancement and Investment
Organized by the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, Mara'ee 2025 serves as a crucial platform to showcase Bahrain's advancements and efforts in developing its agricultural and animal production sectors. The exhibition aims to strengthen the nation's position as a regional hub for innovation and investment in this vital area. His Excellency Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, welcomed His Majesty upon arrival and highlighted the continuous royal support for sustainable agriculture and the preservation of Bahrain's agricultural heritage.
The event is designed to promote sustainable agricultural and livestock development through the presentation of new technologies and to facilitate interaction and commercial exchange among exhibitors, investors, and buyers. It also provides significant investment opportunities for Bahraini farmers and breeders.
Diverse Offerings and International Participation
Mara'ee 2025 features an extensive program with broad participation from both local and international exhibitors, including those from GCC and other Arab countries. Key attractions and activities at this year's exhibition include:
- A comprehensive animal exhibition showcasing horses, camels, various livestock, and birds.
- An agricultural exhibition with diverse sections highlighting modern farming techniques and sustainable practices.
- A dedicated arts and culture corner and a heritage village, reflecting national interest and cultural heritage.
- A farmers' market and a livestock market, offering direct engagement with producers.
- An international horse showcase, featuring rare Arabian horse breeds and equestrian displays, including a performance by Azerbaijani equestrians during the opening ceremony.
- A new pavilion dedicated to mangrove trees, emphasizing their role in climate change mitigation and biodiversity.
- Educational programs for children and young people, alongside various family-oriented entertainment zones.
The exhibition underscores Bahrain's strategic vision to advance and sustain local agricultural output, aligning with national strategies for sustainable agricultural development.
6 Comments
Donatello
Finally, real action on food security! This is a crucial step.
Leonardo
Mara'ee 2025 is a great platform for networking and showcasing, but the true measure of its success will be the tangible increase in local food production and reduced reliance on imports in the coming years.
Raphael
Just a PR stunt. Does this actually put food on tables or just showcase foreign tech?
Donatello
Food security is important, but these grand events rarely translate to grassroots change.
Michelangelo
All talk about innovation, but our small farmers face huge challenges with water and land.
Leonardo
The exhibition showcases impressive technologies and attracts investment, yet the challenge remains in making these innovations accessible and affordable for local producers struggling with limited resources.