In 2026, the World Refining Association (WRA) will celebrate 30 years of connecting downstream leaders, driving innovation, and shaping the future of the refining sector.

To commemorate this milestone, the WRA will host the World Downstream Forum in Bahrain from April 13-15, 2026.

This event marks the first time the World Downstream Forum will take place in the Middle East.

The congress is expected to welcome over 1,000 attendees and feature more than 100 exhibitors and 50 sponsors.

Attendees can anticipate over 500 one-on-one meetings and three full days of insightful strategic and technical content from global leaders in the refining industry.

Key agenda themes include ministerial keynotes discussing the Middle East’s pivotal role in the global energy transition, CEO panels focusing on trade, investment, and the future of refineries, and financing strategies for scaling hydrogen, carbon capture, utilisation, and storage (CCUS), sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and circular economy projects.

Additionally, technology spotlights will delve into AI, digital twins, and advanced manufacturing.

This event will attract a diverse audience of refining leaders, national oil companies (NOCs), international oil companies (IOCs), engineering, procurement, and construction firms (EPCs), technology licensors, innovators, regulators, financiers, and policymakers, creating an unparalleled platform for collaboration and growth.