bahrainthismonth.com | FEBRUARY 2026 CONTENTS 6 Brewed & Blended Episode 9 takes us behind the bar with Fode Musa Traore, mixologist at Palavra Resort & Spa, whose work balances a sense of play with disciplined technique. Chef’s Cut This episode of Chef’s Cut takes us into the kitchen with Executive Chef Eric Pellen of Hilton Bahrain City Centre Hotel & Residences. 53 DINING CONTE Future-Focused Friendship Her Excellency Ms. Asako Okai, Ambassador of Japan to the Kingdom of Bahrain, reflects on a defining moment for Bahrain– Japan relations, exploring strategic cooperation, cultural affinity and future-focused collaboration. Which Japanese restaurant in Bahrain should you try next? Japan and Bahrain share a longstanding relationship rooted in trade, diplomacy and ongoing cultural exchange. Food has become one of the most visible expressions of that connection. This quiz matches your habits and preferences with the Japanese restaurant in Bahrain that suits you best right now. JAPAN IN BAHRAIN 14 Leading With Awareness From guest expectations to team wellbeing, Nuria Leal Aguirre, Assistant General Manager at Barceló Hotel and Residences Bahrain, offers a measured perspective on leadership rooted in care and cultural understanding. Gathered in Reflection Ramadan at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa Cherishing Ramadan: A PearlInspired Celebration at InterContinental Bahrain This Ramadan, InterContinental Bahrain invites guests to step into a season of reflection, togetherness and refined tradition, inspired by the timeless heritage of pearls, Bahrain’s most treasured legacy. Gergaoon in Bahrain In Bahrain, Gergaoon is one of the most recognisable cultural moments of Ramadan. Observed on the 14th or 15th night of the holy month, it marks the midpoint of fasting with a celebration centred on fostering community. 27 RAMADAN Legacy Beyond the Numbers In conversation with H.E. Sara Ahmed Buhiji, Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority and Chairperson of Exhibition World Bahrain, on leadership beyond headline metrics. Leadership Behind the Ledger As Assistant General Manager of Payment Services at BENEFIT, Shafaq Al Kooheji operates at the centre of Bahrain’s digital payments ecosystem. With more than 15 years at the organisation, she has played a key role in shaping the infrastructure that underpins everyday financial life in the Kingdom. The Weight of a Name Khalifa F. Alzayani has played a central role in shaping Bahrain’s hospitality scene through a body of work spanning decades, carrying forward a family name that holds weight within the Kingdom’s dining and social landscape. INTERVIEWS 12
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