The Kingdom of Bahrain celebrates its 52nd National Day amid significant qualitative leaps in various fields, an unprecedented civilizational advancement, and an ongoing journey of successes and achievements at both domestic and international levels. These accomplishments are supported by the sponsorship and support of Bahrain’s monarch, King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, who has initiated a comprehensive reform and development program, positioning the kingdom as one of the most progressive, prosperous, secure, and stable countries in the region.
Over the past two decades, Bahrain has gained a prestigious regional and international status, becoming a key player in various issues and events in the Middle East. This is attributed to its active role in promoting values of peaceful coexistence, supporting regional and global peace, security, and stability.
Since King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa assumed the throne in Bahrain in March 1999, the kingdom embarked on a comprehensive political reform process. This began with the formation of a National Committee to draft the National Action Charter on February 22, 2000, aiming for fundamental changes in the national work approach. The charter project was presented for a referendum in February 2001 and received approval from citizens by over 98%.
On February 14, 2022, Bahrain amended its constitution, transforming from an emirate to a constitutional monarchy. This marked the return of parliamentary life, establishing legislative bodies for both the parliament and the Shura Council, in addition to municipal councils. This move ushered in an era of comprehensive modernization through an advanced, evolved, and inclusive constitution that reinforces national achievements, political, and human rights, and aligns with regional and global developments.
Over the past two decades, Bahrain has witnessed comprehensive development in various sectors, becoming a significant commercial, financial, and tourist center in the Middle East. This is reflected in the presence of around 370 financial and banking institutions and the kingdom serving as a regional hub for many multinational companies. These achievements result from continuous efforts by Bahrain’s leadership to enhance the investment and competitive environment regionally and globally.
Bahrain achieved advanced positions in various business environment indicators, direct investments, and talents, ranking first in the Middle East and North Africa in terms of investment freedom, trade freedom, and financial freedom according to the Heritage Foundation’s Economic Freedom Index. The kingdom also excelled in economic freedom and ranked 11th globally in the Greenfield Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Projects and Greenfield FDI Performance Index 2022.
Bahrain accomplished significant milestones in comprehensive digital transformation, automating over 200 additional government services by 2026 and currently providing more than 560 electronic government services. The kingdom aims to increase national employment in the information and communication technology sector from 30% to 35% by 2030.
The establishment of modern and advanced industrial entities in aluminum, petrochemicals, metals, engineering, food, and pharmaceutical industries has been a focus for Bahrain over the past two decades. With 11 industrial zones facilitating various industrial sectors, Bahrain has succeeded in building sophisticated infrastructure, boasting modern communication networks, advanced transportation infrastructure, and a skilled and trained workforce.
Bahrain’s achievements in recent years align with the development plans of Vision 2030, launched in October 2008. This vision aims to diversify the national economy, improve citizens’ living standards, and position Bahrain as one of the most diverse economies in the Gulf. The vision is built on the principles of competitiveness, justice, and sustainability, and it has made significant progress in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, with over 78% integration into the government’s action plan.
Amid the global challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Bahrain launched an economic recovery plan in November 2021, featuring initiatives and strategic development projects exceeding a value of 30 billion dollars. Bahrain has actively engaged in diplomatic efforts and maintained an effective foreign policy, contributing to solidifying its regional and international standing. The kingdom has established alliances and partnerships with numerous countries and international organizations, actively promoting principles of peaceful coexistence and supporting global peace, security, and stability.