Bahrain has a small and reasonably prosperous economy with less dependence on oil than most Gulf states. Oil now comprises of only 13% of Bahrain’s GDP, although hydrocarbons still provide the lion’s share of government revenue.

What are the Opportunities?

Bahrain’s diversity and openness continue to present opportunities for exporters. It has the most diversified economy in the Gulf. A recognised global centre for Islamic Finance in particular, Financial Services contributes approximately 25% of GDP. Manufacturing contributes 16% and the oil & gas industry 13% of GDP. Bahrain has embarked on a programme of privatisation, which includes telecommunications, electricity and water, the ports and airport services.

The principal sectors where UK businesses will find opportunity areas are:

• Financial & Professional Services

• Education & Training

• Infrastructure

• Healthcare

• Business services

• Downstream Manufacturing (from metals, petrochemicals)

• Logistics

Overseas Business Risk

Read our report giving more details of overseas business risk in relation to Bahrain.

This covers:

• Political and economic background

• Bribery & corruption

• Terrorism threat

• Protective security advice

• Intellectual property

• Organised crime

FCO political and economic updates

FCO updates for Bahrain will keep you up-to-date with major political and economic issues relating to Bahrain.

Doing Business in Bahrain Guides

UKTI has produced a guide aimed at companies experienced in overseas trade who are new to doing business with Bahrain. This guide aims to provide a route map of the way ahead, together with signposts to sources of help.

• Introduction

• Preparing to Export

• How to do Business

• What are the challenges

• Business Etiquette

• How to invest in Bahrain

• Contacts

Want to do business in Bahrain

Produced by UKTI’s Marketing team in the Middle East, Want to do business in Bahrain gives a market overview of Bahrain and the main sectors of opportunity in the country