Bahrain Facts

Bahrain, State of the Persian Gulf; 678 km², 1.6 million residents (2019).Bahrain, which consists of some thirty islands, is located northwest of Qatar, just over 20 km from the east coast of Saudi Arabia. Bahrain is also the name of the largest island, which occupies 7/8 of Bahrain’s surface, where the country’s capital Manama (157,500 residents, 2010) is located.

Country facts

• Mamlakat al-Baḥrayn / Kingdom of Bahrain
• Country abbreviation: Bra
• Area: 678 km²
• Population (2019): 1.6 million residents
• Capital: Manama
• Main languages: Arabic
• State: Monarchy
• Head of State: Shaykh Hamad ibn Isa Al Khalifa (King)
• Head of Government: Shaykh Khahifa ibn Salman Al Khalifa
• Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 24,051
• GNI per capita (2018): US $ 21,890
• Currency unit: 1 dinar = 100 fils
• Currency code: BHD
• Country number (telephony): 973
• Internet domain name: bra
• Time difference compared to Sweden: +2
• National Day: December 16 (Independence Day, 1971)

Nature

• Land use: agricultural land (3%), other (97%)
• Highest mountain: Jabal ad-Dukhan (135 m asl)

Population

• Population density (2019): 2 360 residents per km²
• Natural population growth (2019): 1.2%; birth rate 14 ‰, death rate 2 ‰
• Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (20%), 15-64 (77%), 65- (3%)
• Average life expectancy (2019): men 76 years, women 78 years
• Infant mortality (2019): 6 per 1,000 live births
• Population forecast 2050: 2 million residents
• HDI (2017): 0.846 (place 43 of 189)
• Urbanization rate (2019): 89%
• Most populous cities (2010): Manama (157,500 residents), Rifa (121,600)

Business

• Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): industry (39%), service (61%)
• Exports (2017): US $ 15 380 million
• Main export product: oil
• Main exporting countries: United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia
• Imports (2017): US $ 16,080 million
• Main import products: crude oil, machinery, chemicals
• Main Importing Countries: China, United Arab Emirates, USA
• Railway network: nothing in operation

Geography

Location and Borders

Bahrain is a small island nation located in the Persian Gulf, in the Arabian Peninsula. It is positioned to the east of Saudi Arabia and to the west of Qatar. Bahrain consists of 33 islands, with the largest being Bahrain Island. It is an archipelago in the Persian Gulf, with a strategic location that connects the Arabian Peninsula to the rest of the Middle East. Bahrain is situated approximately 26°N latitude and 50°E longitude. The country is separated from the mainland of Saudi Arabia by the 25-kilometer (16-mile) wide Bahrain Bay, which is crossed by the King Fahd Causeway, a major bridge linking Bahrain to Saudi Arabia.

Bahrain is the third smallest country in Asia, following the Maldives and Singapore, and is considered a vital economic hub in the Gulf region. The country’s maritime location makes it important for trade, particularly in oil and gas, and it plays a central role in regional affairs. Despite its small size, Bahrain has developed a sophisticated infrastructure, making it one of the most advanced countries in the region in terms of urbanization and economic development.

Topography and Natural Features

Bahrain’s landscape is characterized by flat terrain with some low, rolling desert hills. The island nation does not have mountains or large rivers, and its natural resources are limited. The country’s highest point, at just 134 meters (440 feet), is located in the Jabal ad-Dukhan, a small hill in the central part of the main island. Most of Bahrain is covered by arid desert, with small patches of vegetation and sparse freshwater resources.

Bahrain is surrounded by shallow waters and is part of the Persian Gulf’s extensive coastal ecosystem, including coral reefs and seagrass beds. The area’s waters are home to various species of marine life, and the country has invested in preserving and enhancing its marine biodiversity. However, Bahrain is facing challenges related to overfishing and environmental degradation of its coastal zones. The lack of natural freshwater resources has made Bahrain reliant on desalination plants, which are critical to supplying potable water to the population.

Bahrain’s climate, influenced by its proximity to the Arabian Desert, and the country’s limited arable land and water resources, has shaped the way it develops both economically and socially. The government has made significant efforts to overcome these geographical constraints through infrastructure development, including artificial islands and massive desalination projects.

Climate

Hot Desert Climate

Bahrain has a hot desert climate, with long, extremely hot summers and mild winters. Temperatures during the summer months, from June to September, can exceed 40°C (104°F), making it one of the hottest regions in the Middle East. Humidity levels in summer can also be quite high, especially along the coastline, making the heat feel more intense. The hot season is accompanied by little rainfall, which occurs mainly during the winter months, from November to February. Average annual rainfall is less than 80 mm (3 inches), and most precipitation falls in the form of short, heavy showers.

The winter months are much milder, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F), and the humidity levels drop significantly. Despite the harsh summer conditions, Bahrain’s winters are comfortable, attracting many visitors from other Gulf nations and beyond during this season. The country’s climate is influenced by its proximity to the Arabian Desert, which results in long periods of dryness and intense sunshine. The lack of substantial rainfall and the extreme heat of the summer season are significant challenges to agriculture and water resource management.

Seasonal Variation

Bahrain’s seasonal variations are limited compared to more temperate regions, but the difference between summer and winter temperatures is marked. The hot season lasts for about four months, while the cooler period lasts for roughly six months, from November to April. In the summer, the scorching temperatures and high humidity make it uncomfortable for outdoor activities, although air conditioning is widely used to mitigate the heat. During the winter months, the country experiences a moderate and pleasant climate, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities, tourism, and business.

People

Population

Bahrain has a population of approximately 1.7 million people, with a large proportion of its residents being expatriates. The local Bahraini population is estimated to make up around 45-50% of the total population, while the rest consists of foreign workers from various countries, including India, Pakistan, the Philippines, and other Gulf nations. Bahrain has one of the highest proportions of foreign-born residents in the world, as many expatriates come to work in the country’s thriving economy, particularly in the oil, banking, and construction sectors.

The capital city, Manama, is the political, economic, and cultural heart of Bahrain, and it is home to more than half of the country’s population. Other major urban areas include Riffa and Muharraq. The country has experienced rapid urbanization, and a growing number of residents live in modern housing complexes and high-rise buildings.

Languages

Arabic is the official language of Bahrain, and the vast majority of Bahrainis speak Arabic in everyday life. The Bahraini dialect of Arabic is a Gulf Arabic variety with influences from Persian, Hindi, and English, reflecting the multicultural nature of the population. English is widely spoken and understood, particularly in business, government, and higher education. It is commonly used in commerce, as Bahrain has a strong presence of international companies and financial institutions.

Religion

Islam is the dominant religion in Bahrain, and the majority of the population practices Islam, with a predominance of Shia Muslims (around 60% of the population), followed by a significant Sunni Muslim minority. This sectarian divide has been a significant aspect of Bahraini society, occasionally contributing to political tensions and social unrest. Bahrain is also home to a small Christian community, as well as Hindus, Sikhs, and Buddhists, primarily due to the large expatriate population from South Asia and other parts of the world.

The Bahraini government has taken steps to promote religious tolerance, and the country is known for having a relatively open approach to different faiths. Bahrain hosts a number of mosques, churches, and temples, and freedom of religion is officially recognized, although the majority of public practices are dominated by Islam.

Economy

Overview

Bahrain has a highly developed, diverse economy that is primarily driven by the oil and gas industry, but it has increasingly diversified into other sectors such as banking, finance, real estate, and tourism. The country has one of the most liberal economic environments in the Middle East, with an open market and a focus on maintaining its position as a financial hub in the Gulf. Bahrain was one of the first Gulf nations to discover oil in the 1930s, but as oil reserves have declined, the government has invested in diversification to ensure long-term economic growth.

Oil and natural gas continue to play a critical role in Bahrain’s economy, with the country serving as a major exporter of petroleum products. However, Bahrain has successfully diversified its economy, particularly through the development of financial services and banking. The government has also worked to attract foreign investment, becoming a regional center for business and finance.

Oil and Gas

The oil industry remains a major pillar of Bahrain’s economy, even though its oil reserves are limited compared to its neighbors in the Gulf. Bahrain’s oil fields are primarily located offshore, and the country also has a significant refining capacity. The Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO), a state-owned oil company, operates the nation’s oil industry, which contributes significantly to the national GDP.

Despite the challenges posed by the finite nature of Bahrain’s oil reserves, the country has diversified its energy sector by investing in oil refining, petrochemicals, and alternative energy sources such as solar and wind power. The oil sector still plays a central role in the economy, but Bahrain is actively exploring new industries to reduce its dependence on oil revenues.

Financial Services and Banking

Bahrain has developed into a major financial center, serving as a hub for banking, insurance, and financial services in the Middle East. The country’s regulatory environment, modern infrastructure, and openness to foreign investment have made it an attractive location for international businesses. Bahrain is home to the Bahrain Financial Harbour, which hosts numerous global financial institutions, banks, and insurance companies. It also serves as the base for many multinational companies looking to expand into the Middle East market.

The central bank of Bahrain is the primary regulator of the country’s financial sector, and the government has worked to ensure a stable and transparent financial environment. As a result, Bahrain has a well-developed banking infrastructure that supports a wide range of financial products, including Islamic banking, which has grown in prominence in recent years.

Diversification and Non-Oil Sectors

Bahrain has made significant strides in diversifying its economy beyond oil and gas. The country has focused on developing its tourism, real estate, construction, and technology sectors. Manama is an important center for tourism in the Gulf, attracting both business travelers and leisure tourists with its luxury hotels, shopping malls, and cultural events. Bahrain also hosts numerous conferences, exhibitions, and sporting events, which contribute to the growth of the hospitality and tourism sectors.

The real estate and construction sectors have boomed in recent years, fueled by large infrastructure projects such as new hotels, office buildings, and residential complexes. The government has also emphasized the growth of its information technology and innovation sectors, aiming to position Bahrain as a regional leader in technology and digital transformation.

Government

Political System

Bahrain is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system. The country is ruled by the Al Khalifa family, which has been in power since the late 18th century. The king, currently King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, is the head of state and holds significant executive authority. The king appoints the prime minister and other key government officials, and the political system is based on a mixture of traditional monarchy and modern constitutional elements.

Bahrain has a bicameral parliament consisting of the elected Chamber of Deputies and the appointed Shura Council. The king appoints the members of the Shura Council, while the members of the Chamber of Deputies are elected through a direct voting process. The parliament plays a consultative role, but the king retains significant power, particularly in matters of national security, foreign policy, and the economy.

Legal System

Bahrain’s legal system is based on civil law and Islamic Sharia law, with both legal frameworks influencing the judicial system. The country’s judiciary is independent, but the legal system reflects the Islamic traditions that shape much of Bahrain’s social and cultural life. The legal system provides for personal freedoms, but public expression is regulated, and political opposition movements have occasionally been limited by the government.

Bahrain has developed a comprehensive legal infrastructure to support its business and financial sectors, including a modern corporate law system, labor laws, and regulations governing financial services. The country is a member of various international legal bodies, including the United Nations, and is a signatory to numerous treaties related to trade, human rights, and economic development.

Foreign Relations

Bahrain has strong diplomatic and economic relations with many countries, particularly its Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) neighbors—Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Oman, and Qatar. It maintains close ties with the United States, the United Kingdom, and other Western countries, particularly in the areas of defense and trade. Bahrain hosts the U.S. Navy’s Fifth Fleet, and its foreign policy is aligned with regional security interests. The country is also involved in efforts to address issues such as terrorism, regional conflicts, and environmental sustainability.

Bahrain’s relationship with its neighbors is often influenced by sectarian dynamics, with Bahrain’s Shiite-majority population occasionally in conflict with the Sunni-dominated government. These tensions have played a role in shaping Bahrain’s domestic and foreign policies, particularly during periods of political unrest. Nonetheless, Bahrain has taken steps to maintain a stable and secure presence in the Gulf region.

Culture

Arts and Music

Bahrain has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its Arab, Persian, and Indian roots. Bahraini music has evolved from traditional folk tunes and instruments, such as the oud and darbuka, and continues to incorporate modern musical styles. The country is known for its musical festivals and the Bahrain National Museum, which houses significant collections of Bahraini and Gulf art, historical artifacts, and traditional music.

Cuisine

Bahraini cuisine is a blend of Arabian, Persian, and Indian influences, featuring a wide array of spices, rice, lamb, and seafood. Popular dishes include machboos (a spiced rice dish with meat), harees (a dish of wheat and meat), and samboosa (fried pastries with filling). The cuisine is heavily influenced by Bahrain’s position as a crossroads of trade, and it reflects the diverse backgrounds of its people.

Festivals and Traditions

Bahrain celebrates a number of festivals that showcase its culture and heritage. The most notable celebration is the annual Bahrain International Music Festival, which brings together musicians from around the world. Other important cultural events include the Spring of Culture festival and the National Day celebrations, where Bahrainis commemorate the nation’s independence and cultural identity.

History

Early History

Bahrain’s history dates back to ancient times, with archaeological evidence suggesting that the island was home to the Dilmun civilization, a major trading hub that flourished around 4,000 years ago. The region was known for its trade in pearls, dates, and other goods, and it was an important center for the ancient world. The islands have been occupied by various peoples over the centuries, including the Persians, Greeks, and Arabs.

Islamic Period

Islam arrived in Bahrain in the 7th century, with the island becoming an important center of Islamic culture. The region was subsequently ruled by various Arab dynasties, including the Umayyads and Abbasids, before falling under the control of the Persian Safavid dynasty in the 16th century. Bahrain was later incorporated into the Ottoman Empire before becoming a British protectorate in the 19th century.

Modern Bahrain

Bahrain gained independence from Britain in 1971, and the Al Khalifa family has ruled the country since that time. Since independence, Bahrain has undergone rapid modernization, becoming a regional center for finance, commerce, and culture. Despite its small size, Bahrain has made significant strides in economic development and has positioned itself as an influential player in the Gulf region.

Bahrain Map