Bahrain is a small Arab nation positioned in a bay along the southwestern shore of the Persian Gulf. This archipelago comprises Bahrain Island along with approximately 30 smaller islands. The name comes from the Arabic phrase al-baḥrayn, which translates to “two seas.”
Bahrain
Situated in one of the major oil-producing regions globally, Bahrain has limited petroleum resources of its own. Instead, the economy has historically depended on refining crude oil from neighboring nations, while in recent years, the financial, commercial services, and communications industries have expanded significantly, along with tourism. The primary city, port, and capital, Manama (Al-Manāmah), is located at the northeastern edge of Bahrain Island. Manama is a remarkably modern city that is laid-back and diverse, attracting many visitors from nearby Saudi Arabia, especially on weekends when numerous Saudis flock to the city for its dining and nightlife. However, the people of Bahrain maintain conservative lifestyles. This value is reflected in the country’s constitution, which states, “the family is the cornerstone of society, the strength of which lies in religion, ethics, and patriotism.”
Quick Facts
Refer to the article: flag of Bahrain
Audio File: National anthem of Bahrain
Head Of Government:
Prime Minister: Salman ibn Hamad Al Khalifah
Capital:
Manama
Population:
(2025 est.) 1,628,000
Currency Exchange Rate:
1 USD is equivalent to 0.376 Bahraini dinar
Head Of State:
King: Hamad ibn ʿIsa Al Khalifah
The King Fahd Causeway links Bahrain to Saudi Arabia over the Persian Gulf. Bahrain is famous for its lush date palm plantations; historically, it has served as a trade hub and a provider of natural resources for the surrounding region. Bahrain Island is thought to be the location of the ancient kingdom of Dilmun, a commercial center that engaged in trade with ancient Sumer. Over time, it has been inhabited and governed by various groups, including the Khalīfah family (Āl Khalīfah), a local Arab dynasty that has been in charge of Bahrain since the late 18th century. Acknowledging the islands’ strategic significance, the Khalīfah have permitted Bahrain’s port facilities to be accessible to the naval forces of other nations, including the United States.