Dress A suit and tie is the usual attire for foreign men in meetings, and darker colours are preferred. Jackets are not necessary in all environments. Women should avoid sleeveless attire; conservative yet stylish is a good choice. Many Bahraini men choose to wear traditional attire such as the thobe (ankle-length robe) and ghitra (headscarf), either in white or a red-andwhite-chequered pattern. Head…
This chapter contains selected listings of some of the country’s top hotels, helpful tips for business and leisure travellers, and other useful suggestions for travel to Bahrain.…
Bahrain’s tax landscape has evolved in recent years, with the introduction of excise tax in 2017 and value-added tax in 2019. Since then, new regulations have been aimed at improving financial oversight. Notably, a domestic minimum top-up tax law is set to be implemented in 2025, impacting Bahraini entities that are part of large multinational enterprise groups. As a financial leader in the Middle…
Bahrain has made significant progress in its healthcare and education systems over the past six decades. The introduction of compulsory schooling in 1919 and a health-for-all policy in 1959 led to substantial sector growth. The government is set to launch a universal health insurance scheme in early 2025, which is expected to expand coverage and improve services. Increased funding should enhance coordination…
Bahrain’s expanding ICT sector highlights the country’s commitment to economic diversification and innovation, positioning it as a globally competitive economy. With a young, tech-savvy population and government investment in digital infrastructure and talent development, the kingdom has become a destination for technology start-ups, attracting numerous international ICT companies. The country…
Industry, including large aluminium plants and numerous smaller enterprises, represented 14% of the economy in 2023 with aims to increase its contribution to 14.5% by 2026. The kingdom has long prioritised manufacturing and industrial activities, supported by a sophisticated financial and governmental network. Bahrain is embracing the Fourth Industrial Revolution, expanding smart factory infrastructure…
Bahrain’s construction and real estate sectors are key to the kingdom’s economic diversification. After overcoming challenges including the Covid-19 pandemic, supply chain issues and cost volatility, these industries are rebounding strongly. While inflation and high interest rates have impacted demand, the outlook remains positive with a robust pipeline of projects under way. The real estate sector…
Bahrain’s transport sector is a key driver of the kingdom’s economy, supporting trade, logistics and tourism. The sector saw significant growth in 2023, fuelled by strong government support and increasing private sector involvement, underpinned by a $30bn plan to expand air, maritime, rail, road and urban connectivity. The transport industry accounted for 7.4% of GDP in 2023, up 3.1% from 2022.…
Known for its long history in hospitality, Bahrain is expanding its tourism offerings, which include cultural, heritage, adventure and coastal attractions. Manama’s selection as the Gulf Tourism Capital for 2024 highlights the country’s rising prominence in the regional tourism landscape. With new hotels, improved transport connectivity and government commitment to developing the sector, the kingdom…
