Transport
From The Report: Bahrain 2024
View in Online Reader

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. Major projects, including the Bahrain Metro, the modernisation of Khalifa Bin Salman Port, land reclamation to expand the kingdom’s landmass and new regional road and rail links, are set to drive further growth. These developments, coupled with a favourable regulatory ecosystem, are attracting foreign direct investment and creating high-value jobs, supporting the kingdom’s diversification and sustainable development efforts away from oil dependency.

This chapter includes interviews with Mohamed Yousif AlBinfalah, CEO, Bahrain Airport Company; and Matthew Luckhurst, Managing Director, APM Terminals Bahrain.

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

In high gear: Increased infrastructure and multi-modal linkages aim to position the country as a regional hub with investment potential
OBG
plus

Bahrain’s transport sector is pivotal in the island kingdom’s economic landscape, driving trade and commerce, logistical connectivity and tourism growth. The strategic location of Bahrain in the heart of the GCC has historically positioned the country as a critical hub for regional trade. In 2023 the sector witnessed significant development, bolstered by robust government support, rising private sector participation and a raft of project announcements. This progress is underpinned by a government-led…

Analysis

Bilateral collaboration: Recent agreements between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia underscore their commitment to joint transport and infrastructure projects
OBG
plus

The transport links between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia have long played a crucial role in fostering economic, social and cultural ties across the Gulf region. The King Fahd Causeway has been a vital artery for trade and travel since its opening in 1986. The establishment of the King Fahd Causeway Authority in the early 2000s has led to significant upgrades, reflecting the deepening economic ties between the two countries. Future projects are set to enhance this connectivity. Foremost among these is…

Interview

Flight stimulator: Mohamed Yousif AlBinfalah, CEO, Bahrain Airport Company, on sustainability in aviation development
OBG
plus

Interview: Mohamed Yousif AlBinfalah, CEO, Bahrain Airport Company In what ways does Bahrain’s location affect its position in transport and logistics networks? MOHAMED YOUSIF ALBINFALAH: Bahrain’s strategic location at the crossroads of east and west provides an opportunity to enhance connectivity and leverage its position as both a gateway to the Middle East and a key player in regional and global transport and logistics networks. This geographical advantage is significantly bolstered by…

Analysis

Future fuels: Emerging technologies and cleaner fuel sources are heralding a greener future for global shipping in the years ahead
OBG
plus

With fossil fuels still powering roughly 99% of global shipping, the sector is seeking to reduce emissions through cleaner fuel sources – including methanol, ammonia and wind – that could soon see increased use. Increased Investment In August 2022 Breakthrough Energy Ventures, a coalition of private investors founded by US tech entrepreneur Bill Gates, helped Danish start-up Blue World Technologies raise $37m to scale up production of a technological system that extracts hydrogen from methanol…

Analysis

Power up: Emerging markets are targeting a greater share of electric vehicle manufacturing and battery production
OBG
plus

With electric vehicles (EVs) set to become more accessible to drivers around the world – and solid growth trends attracting public and private investment – several emerging markets are looking to expand their EV manufacturing capacity. EV uptake is essential to the global energy transition, as transport emissions grew at an annual average rate of 1.7% from 1990 to 2022, faster than any other end-use sector except for industry – which also grew at around 1.7% in the same period. The number of…

Interview

Funding growth: Matthew Luckhurst, Managing Director, APM Terminals Bahrain, on expanding investment incentives
OBG
plus

Interview: Matthew Luckhurst, Managing Director, APM Terminals Bahrain How can Bahrain’s maritime transport segment support the country’s economic development? MATTHEW LUCKHURST: The segment’s commitment to supporting the kingdom’s economic vision is evident in its strategic alignment with diversification goals. By focusing on creating high-value opportunities, integrating services and upskilling local labour, we are capitalising on initiatives that promise the greatest impact and highest…