Bahrain officially known as the Kingdom of Bahrain, often called the “Kingdom of the Two Seas,” is a beautiful Arabic island country in the Persian Gulf. Ruled by the Al Khalifa royal family, Bahrain is strategically located between Saudi Arabia to the west, connected by the King Fahd Causeway, and Qatar to the southeast, which will soon be linked by the Qatar–Bahrain Friendship Bridge—the world’s longest fixed link.
A Glimpse into History: Bahrain has been inhabited since ancient times, thanks to its strategic location. It has seen influences from the Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, and Arabs, who introduced Islam to the region. Throughout its history, Bahrain has been home to various cultures and civilizations, including the Ismaili sect known as the Qarmatians in 899 AD, who sought to create a utopian society. Their rule ended in 976 AD, paving the way for the Arab Uyunid dynasty.
Geography, Environment, & Climate: Bahrain is an archipelago made up of 33 islands, characterized by a generally flat and arid landscape. The highest point is Jabal ad Dukhan, standing at 134 meters (440 feet) above sea level. Despite its size, Bahrain’s environment faces challenges like desertification, coastal degradation, and the impact of oil spills. The climate is hot and humid, especially during the summer, with temperatures often soaring to 35°C (95°F). Rainfall is minimal and mainly occurs in the winter.
Population: The current population of Bahrain in 2024 is approximately 1.5 million people, with 61.8% being nationals and 38.2% non-nationals.
Currency: The official currency is the Bahraini Dinar.
Living as an Expat: Housing: Finding a place to live in Bahrain is straightforward. The country offers a wide range of apartments and villas, both within gated compounds and in more open communities. Whether you’re looking for a spacious villa with a pool or a cozy apartment in the city, there’s something to suit every taste and budget.
Getting Around: The most convenient way to explore Bahrain is by car. Car rentals are widely available, and gasoline is affordable. The country boasts well-maintained highways and major roads, making travel within the Kingdom safe and easy. Driving is on the right-hand side. Taxis are also plentiful, and all taxis are required to use meters. For public transport, the Cars Transport Corporation operates around 40 air-conditioned buses that run from 5 am to midnight.