A Once-in-a-Generation Gathering of Global Refining Leaders 

PRESS RELEASE | January 2026

The World Refining Association (WRA), part of Clarion Events and backed by Blackstone, proudly announces the World Downstream Forum (WDF) – a once-in-a-generation global gathering celebrating 30 years of WRA leadership in the refining and petrochemical industry. 

From 13th–15th April 2026, the Kingdom of Bahrain will host this landmark event, supported by the Ministry of Oil and Environment and co-hosted by Bapco Energies.

A Global Gathering Defining the Future of Refining and Petrochemicals 

For three transformative days, more than 1,000 senior executives, 100+ exhibitors, 50+ sponsors, and 100+ speakers will convene to chart the next era of downstream innovation, investment, and decarbonisation. 

Building on the legacy of ERTC, LARTC, NARTC, and ARTC, the World Downstream Forum brings together operators, investors, innovators, and policymakers for strategic dialogue at the highest level. 

“This isn’t just another conference; it’s the culmination of three decades of global collaboration. The World Downstream Forum will unite the people and ideas that have shaped our industry and set the agenda for the decades ahead,”
— Tanushree Mulraj, EMEA Portfolio Director, World Refining Association

Why the Kingdom of Bahrain: The Middle East at the Heart of Global Energy Leadership

As the Middle East cements its leadership in the global energy transition, the Kingdom of Bahrain offers the perfect stage for this milestone celebration — a nexus of innovation, investment, and partnership. 

Timed to coincide with the Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix, the Forum will attract decision-makers from across the world for an unprecedented convergence of business and global influence. 

Hosting the World Refining Forum 2026 in the Kingdom of Bahrain reflects its prominent position on the international stage in organizing and hosting specialized energy events, and underscores its leading role in supporting global efforts toward a low-carbon economy and achieving sustainable development goals.

The forum represents a high-level strategic platform for exchanging expertise and forward-looking insights on the sustainability of the refining and petrochemical industries. It also strengthens international partnerships and accelerates the adoption of advanced technologies and digital transformation, including applications of artificial intelligence, while addressing critical topics such as value chain integration, financing hydrogen projects, the circular economy, and the development of national competencies.

— H.E. Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Bin Dinah, Minister of Oil and Environment, Special Envoy for Climate Affairs

What to Expect: Insight, Foresight, and Action 

The Forum’s high-level programme will feature: 

• Ministerial and CEO keynotes on energy transition leadership and refinery competitiveness 

• Strategic panels on trade, investment, and the future of integrated value chains 

• Finance sessions on enabling hydrogen, Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage Energy System (CCUS), Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and circular economy projects 

• Technology showcases featuring digital twins, AI, and advanced manufacturing 

• Leadership sessions on workforce transformation and innovation culture 

• WRA 30th Anniversary Awards honouring excellence, sustainability, and leadership 

The Global Stage for Downstream Leadership 

This is where the future of refining and petrochemicals will be defined. 

The World Downstream Forum in the Kingdom of Bahrain brings together the world’s most influential voices — from energy ministries and operators to innovators and financiers — for three days of strategy, innovation, and collaboration that will echo across the industry. 

Secure your place among global leaders. 

Register your interest now to sponsor, speak, or attend: Register your Interest.