New Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre
Photo: AMS Global 
Dr. Debbie Kristiansen will manage the new Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre, due to open 2022.
The new Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre is set to boost the Kingdom of Bahrain’s position as a leading meetings and events destination, attracting future tourism investment and events to the region. With 95,000 sqm of exhibition space over 10 Halls, a 4,000-seat tiered auditorium, 95 meeting rooms, Royal & VIP Majlis and a 250-seat restaurant, the Centre will be the largest venue of its kind in the Middle East.
ASM Global has appointed experienced Middle East venue management and entertainment professional Dr. Debbie Kristiansen as General Manager of the new Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre, due to open in 2022. The appointment of Dr Kristiansen, who has lived and worked in the Middle East for 16 years, has been applauded across the industry. Ranked in the Top 30 Most Inspirational Women in the Arab World 2019 and Middle East Female CEO of the Year 2018, with a long and distinguished career in the tourism, exhibition, events and entertainment industries, Dr Kristiansen’s knowledge and understanding of the culture and the character of the region will be an invaluable asset in her new role.
“Debbie has more than 30 years’ experience in the industry and her leadership skills will bring many unique qualities to the role. Her appointment will help consolidate ASM Global’s reputation in the region as the world’s leading producer of event experiences and enhance Bahrain’s standing as an international meetings destination," said Harvey Lister, ASM Global APAC & Gulf Region Chairman and Chief Executive.
Commenting on her appointment, Dr. Kristiansen said she was ‘truly excited’ to join the ASM Global family with its unparalleled reputation for delivering the very best in venue and event management and creating memorable experiences. “To have the opportunity of working both for ASM Global, and to return to the beautiful destination of Bahrain, is a dream come true. This will allow me the privilege to help mentor and build the talent and skill set of young Bahrainis for generations to come. I look forward to working closely with Bahrain Tourism & Exhibition Authority to develop and grow the international MICE business, and to create a long-term legacy for Bahrain,” she said.
Iain Campbell said he looked forward to welcoming other industry professionals to the team as the project progressed, offering a unique opportunity for those wanting to be part of the Middle East’s biggest and most advanced exhibition and convention facility.
ASM Global has appointed experienced Middle East venue management and entertainment professional Dr. Debbie Kristiansen as General Manager of the new Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre, due to open in 2022. The appointment of Dr Kristiansen, who has lived and worked in the Middle East for 16 years, has been applauded across the industry. Ranked in the Top 30 Most Inspirational Women in the Arab World 2019 and Middle East Female CEO of the Year 2018, with a long and distinguished career in the tourism, exhibition, events and entertainment industries, Dr Kristiansen’s knowledge and understanding of the culture and the character of the region will be an invaluable asset in her new role.
“Debbie has more than 30 years’ experience in the industry and her leadership skills will bring many unique qualities to the role. Her appointment will help consolidate ASM Global’s reputation in the region as the world’s leading producer of event experiences and enhance Bahrain’s standing as an international meetings destination," said Harvey Lister, ASM Global APAC & Gulf Region Chairman and Chief Executive.
„Working for ASM Global will allow me the privilege to help mentor and build the talent and skill set of young Bahrainis for generations to come.“
Commenting on her appointment, Dr. Kristiansen said she was ‘truly excited’ to join the ASM Global family with its unparalleled reputation for delivering the very best in venue and event management and creating memorable experiences. “To have the opportunity of working both for ASM Global, and to return to the beautiful destination of Bahrain, is a dream come true. This will allow me the privilege to help mentor and build the talent and skill set of young Bahrainis for generations to come. I look forward to working closely with Bahrain Tourism & Exhibition Authority to develop and grow the international MICE business, and to create a long-term legacy for Bahrain,” she said.
Iain Campbell said he looked forward to welcoming other industry professionals to the team as the project progressed, offering a unique opportunity for those wanting to be part of the Middle East’s biggest and most advanced exhibition and convention facility.
Bahrain International Exhibition & Convention Centre
The project is set to complete construction in 2022 and will mark the launch of the region’s largest exhibition and convention centre on a total site area of 309,000 sqm. The Centre will offer a total build-up area of 149,000 sqm. Offering 95,000 sqm of exhibition space over 10 halls, a 4,000-seat tiered auditorium, 95 meeting rooms, Royal & VIP Majlis, supported by event organisers offices and a 250 seat capacity restaurant. ASM Global was successfully appointed by the Bahrain Tourism & Exhibition Authority (BTEA) as the managing operator. www.bahrainiecc.com