Bahrain

With its experienced workforce and historical connections to Saudi Arabia, the Bahrain banking sector has continued to be a key segment of the economy. Although retail banking in the kingdom was largely sheltered from the global economic crisis, the changing international landscape is driving financial institutions to explore new strategies, while the banking regulator is continuing efforts to...

Despite a number of notable uncertainties in the global economy, Bahrain’s economic outlook remains mostly positive. Largely insulated from international economic turmoil, the kingdom saw more than 6% GDP growth in 2008 and 3% in 2009. In 2012 the economy expanded at a rate of 3.4%, largely due to the robust private sector, which a number of government initiatives are aimed at supporting, such as...

Building on a centuries-old geostrategic advantage, Bahrain continues to increase its prominence within the region. Energy has given way to a well-regulated finance sector as a leading driver of GDP and wider economic growth. The government is investing heavily in several sectors, especially education and transport, as part of efforts to achieve the goals of its Economic Vision 2030. The GCC has...

As one of the most modern and efficient shipping centres in the region, the transport and logistics facilities on Bahrain’s Muharraq Island continued to draw business to the Kingdom throughout 2011. The Khalifa Bin Salman Port (KBSP), which opened in 2009, showcases the government’s dedication to further developing the country’s transport offerings, which it sees as integral to its...

Horses are believed to have been part of Bahrain’s culture for as long as 4000 years, dating back to the Dilmun civilisation. This chapter examines how equestrian sports have become a popular leisure activity in the Kingdom. The chapter also includes a listing of the country’s leading hotels and resorts, as well as useful telephone numbers and facts for visitors, including information about...