Ten fun facts about Bahrain

1. A Small Island Nation with a Bright Future

In 2002, Bahrain was declared a kingdom, with Manama as its capital. This small island nation, located in the Persian Gulf, is the smallest country in the Middle East, with a population of just over 1.5 million people. Since its declaration as a kingdom, Bahrain has seen a period of economic growth and development, with the government investing heavily in infrastructure and tourism. The country is now a popular destination for business and leisure travelers alike, and is home to a number of world-class attractions, including the Bahrain World Trade Center and the Bahrain Financial Harbor.

Also → "The Bahamas: A Tourist Hotspot & Foreign Investment Hub"

2. A Country Divided

Since gaining independence in 1971, Bahrain has been plagued by ongoing conflicts between the ruling Sunni tribe and the Shiite majority. The country is divided into five regions, known as governorates, which are Manama, Muharraq, Northern, Central and Southern Governorates. These regions are further divided into twenty-seven municipalities, each with its own local government. The tensions between the two groups have been a major source of unrest in the country, leading to protests, violence, and even civil war. Despite the ongoing conflicts, Bahrain remains a popular tourist destination, with its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history.

Also → Oman's Official Currency is the Omani Riyal

3. A Major Financial Hub

As a major financial hub of the Arab world, Bahrain is home to the Bahraini dinar (BHD), its official currency. The dinar is one of the most valuable currencies in the world, and is pegged to the US dollar at a rate of 1 BHD to 2.65 USD. Bahrain is a major player in the global economy, and its financial sector is highly developed, with a wide range of banking and investment services available. The country is also home to a number of international financial institutions, such as the Bahrain Stock Exchange, the Bahrain Financial Harbour, and the Bahrain International Investment Park.

Also → Comoros: A Country of Diversity

4. Islam is the primary religion

In Bahrain, Islam is the primary religion, with 70% of the population being Shia Muslims, 15% being Sunni Muslims, and the remaining population consisting of other religions and indigenous beliefs. This diversity of religious beliefs is reflective of the country's long history of cultural exchange and openness to different faiths.

Also → Doha's Population Booms

5. A Multilingual Paradise

In Bahrain, Arabic is the official language, but Persian Farsi and Urdu are also commonly used. English is widely spoken and is the primary language of business, making it an ideal destination for international travelers and businesspeople alike. With its diverse linguistic landscape, Bahrain is a great place to experience a variety of cultures and languages.

Also → Ghana's Vulnerability to External Economic Shocks

6. A Major Exporter of Petroleum and Petroleum Products

The small island nation of Bahrain is a major exporter of petroleum and petroleum products, textiles, and aluminum. It imports a variety of goods, including chemicals, machinery, and crude oil. Bahrain is also rich in natural resources, such as natural gas, oil, and fish stocks, which are all important to the country's economy.

Also → Qatar: English-Speaking Constitutional Monarchy

7. Bahrain Struggles to Feed Itself

In Bahrain, only 2.82% of the total land area is arable, leaving a staggering 92% of the country covered in desert. This means that the majority of Bahrain is inhospitable to agriculture, making it difficult for the country to produce its own food. As a result, Bahrain relies heavily on imports to meet its food needs.

Also → Tonga: A Small Island Nation With a Big Fishing and Tourism Industry

8. Bahrain's Unique Climate is Perfect for Agriculture

Bahrain is a country with a unique climate, featuring arid, mild winters and long, humid summers. This climate is ideal for agriculture, and the country is known for its production of fruit, vegetables, poultry and shrimp. The mild winters and long summers make Bahrain an ideal place for growing a variety of crops, and the country is well-known for its agricultural production.

Also → "Burundi: Small & Vulnerable Agriculture"

9. Jabal ad Dukhan: The Highest Point in Bahrain

Towering at a height of 122 meters above sea level, Jabal ad Dukhan, or The Mountain of Smoke, is the highest point in Bahrain. Located in the northwestern part of the country, this mountain is a popular tourist destination, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It is also home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Arabian leopard, and is a great spot for birdwatching.

Also → Malta: A Tiny Nation That Thrives Without Resources

10. Bahrain's Economic Success Story

Bahrain has made great strides in diversifying its economy and providing its citizens with some of the best education and health systems in the region. In recent years, the country has invested heavily in its infrastructure, with a focus on developing its educational and healthcare systems. This has resulted in a dramatic improvement in the quality of life for Bahrainis, with access to world-class education and healthcare now available to all. The country has also seen a surge in foreign investment, with many international companies now setting up operations in Bahrain. This has helped to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, further improving the quality of life for Bahrainis.

Also → London's Finest Financial District