Bahrain: A First World Country? Exploring The Nation's Development

Bahrain is an island country in the Persian Gulf, situated between Qatar and Saudi Arabia. It is officially known as the Kingdom of Bahrain and has a population of around 1.5 million people. While Bahrain is not typically referred to as a first-world country, it is often described as a developing nation with a relatively liberal society and a diverse culture.

Bahrain has a unique position among its Gulf neighbours, with more relaxed Islamic laws and greater freedom for women. Women in Bahrain are not required to wear specific religious attire and are allowed to drive, own businesses, and hold prominent positions in society. The country also has a diverse religious landscape, with over 25 faiths and churches operating alongside the dominant Islamic faith.

In terms of economic development, Bahrain has a high-income economy recognised by the World Bank. The discovery of oil has led to rapid modernisation, with the country developing a post-oil economy focused on banking and tourism. Bahrain's capital, Manama, is a hub for many of the world's largest financial institutions.

While Bahrain may not fit the traditional definition of a first-world country, its progressive social attitudes, diverse culture, and dynamic economy set it apart in the region.

Bahrain's relaxed Islamic laws and regulations

Bahrain is an island country in West Asia, situated in the Persian Gulf. It is officially the Kingdom of Bahrain and has a population of around 1.5 million people. The country gained full independence from the United Kingdom in 1971 and has since been ruled by the Al Khalifa royal family.

In terms of its laws and regulations, Bahrain has a mixed legal system influenced by its long exposure to the British legal system, as well as Islamic law. While the country's constitution declares Islam as the official religion and affirms that Sharia is the principal source for legislation, it also provides for freedom of conscience and freedom to perform religious rites.

Dress Code and Behaviour

Bahrain has a relatively relaxed dress code compared to some other Muslim countries in the region. However, it is important to dress modestly and behave respectfully to avoid offending local beliefs. Women should generally avoid wearing tight and revealing clothes, and when visiting a mosque, they should cover their heads with a scarf.

Sex and Relationships

Bahrain's laws regarding sex and relationships are more conservative. Sexual relationships and cohabitation between unmarried couples are not allowed. Homosexuality is considered an offense under the law and can lead to imprisonment and deportation. Public displays of intimate physical contact, such as hugging and kissing, are discouraged to avoid attracting unnecessary attention.

Alcohol and Illegal Drugs

Non-Muslims in Bahrain are allowed to purchase alcohol from licensed stores. However, drinking in public, drunk driving, and drug use are strictly prohibited and can result in fines, imprisonment, or even the death penalty.

Other Offenses

Other offenses in Bahrain include apostasy, murder, adultery, theft, and sex outside of marriage. Additionally, getting into debt or legal disputes may restrict an individual's ability to leave the country until they are resolved.

While Bahrain's laws may seem strict in certain areas, they are generally more relaxed than some other Muslim countries, contributing to its reputation as a popular destination for expats and overseas workers.

Bahrain's rich history and traditions

History

Bahrain, officially known as the Kingdom of Bahrain, is a small island country in West Asia, situated in the Persian Gulf. It is recognised as the site of the ancient Dilmun civilisation and has been famed for its pearl fisheries since antiquity.

Bahrain has a long history of foreign rule and political turmoil. It was one of the earliest areas influenced by Islam during the lifetime of Muhammad in 628 AD. After a period of Arab rule, Bahrain was controlled by the Portuguese Empire from 1521 to 1602, when they were expelled by Shah Abbas the Great of Safavid Iran. The country was then ruled by the Al Khalifa royal family from 1783 until it became a protectorate of the United Kingdom in the late 1800s. Bahrain gained independence from British rule in 1971.

Traditions

Bahrain's society is predominantly Islamic, with a mix of Sunni and Shia Muslims, but it is also home to Christians, Jews, and followers of indigenous religions. Arabic is the official language, but English, Farsi, and Urdu are also widely spoken due to the country's diverse population.

Bahrain's traditions reflect its rich cultural heritage and historical influences. Here are some examples:

• Coffee is an important part of social life, and coffee shops are popular meeting places. Bahraini coffee is often flavoured with cardamom and saffron.
• Bahraini cuisine features dishes such as machbous (fish or meat served with rice) and muḥammar (sweet brown rice with dates or sugar).
• Traditional handicrafts, such as ceramics, basket weaving, gold working, and textile making, are supported by the state and local communities.
• Music and dance are integral parts of Bahraini culture, with a rich folk music tradition, including the pearl diving songs known as fidjeri.
• Horse racing is a popular pastime, and traditional sports such as falconry, gazelle hunting, and hare hunting are still practised by wealthier Bahrainis.
• Bahrain's national dress for men includes the thawb (a full-length tunic) and the kaffiyeh (a white head cloth), while women typically wear the abaya (a long, loose-fitting black gown) and the hijab (a veil).

Bahrain's cultural diversity

Bahrain is an island country in West Asia, situated in the Persian Gulf. It is officially known as the Kingdom of Bahrain and comprises a small archipelago of 50 natural islands and 33 artificial islands. Bahrain is ethnically diverse, with its population made up of various ethnic groups, including Arabs, Persians, Africans, Indians, and more. The country's official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken, and other languages like Persian, Hindi, and Urdu are also used.

The culture of Bahrain is rooted in the historical region of Eastern Arabia and shares similarities with its Arab neighbours in the Gulf region. Islam is the state religion, with the majority of the population following the Shia sect. However, Bahrain is known for its religious tolerance, and other faiths like Christianity, Hinduism, and Judaism also have a presence in the country.

Bahrain also has a rich folk music culture, with styles like Khaleeji and fidjeri, which were traditionally sung by pearl divers. The country hosts an annual music festival, and while it lacks a film industry, moviegoing is a popular pastime.

In terms of dress, Western-style clothing is common, but traditional attire like the thobe for men and the abaya for women is still worn. Bahrain's architecture reflects its historical influences, with modern developments coexisting alongside ancient forts and archaeological sites.

Overall, Bahrain's cultural diversity is shaped by its historical background, geographic location, and the interplay of various religious and ethnic groups that call the country home.

Bahrain's rapid modernisation

Bahrain is a small island country in the Persian Gulf, situated between Qatar and Saudi Arabia. It is officially known as the Kingdom of Bahrain and is recognised by the World Bank as a high-income economy.

In addition to oil, Bahrain was historically famous for its pearl fisheries, which were considered the best in the world until the 19th century. Today, Bahrain is known for being the most liberal Islamic country in the Arab world, with relatively relaxed rules and customs when it comes to religious beliefs. For example, women are not mandated to wear a burka, niqab, abaya, or even a hijab, and they are allowed to drive and own businesses.

Bahrain's modernisation is also reflected in its diverse and expansive skyline, with new 300-plus-metre-high skyscrapers rapidly changing the landscape of Manama. The country has also become a popular tourist destination, with almost 100,000 Saudis crossing the King Fahd Causeway each weekend to enjoy Bahrain's liberty and freedom.

Overall, Bahrain's rapid modernisation can be attributed to its investment in diverse sectors beyond oil, including banking and tourism, as well as its relatively relaxed Islamic laws and cultural diversity.

Bahrain's unique attractions

Bahrain is an island country in West Asia, situated in the Persian Gulf. It is officially the Kingdom of Bahrain and is recognised by the World Bank as a high-income economy. Here are some of its unique attractions:

Historical Attractions

Bahrain is the site of the ancient Dilmun civilisation, famed for its pearl fisheries. It was also ruled by the Portuguese Empire from 1521 to 1602, and later by the Al Khalifa royal family. As such, there are many historical sites to visit:

• Qal'at al-Bahrain: A majestic fort that stares out across the Persian Gulf, built on an ancient tell (mound created by centuries of urban rebuilding).
• Riffa Fort: Built in 1812 by the 19th-century ruler of Bahrain, with crenulated bulwarks and antique courtrooms.
• A'Ali Royal Burial Mounds: Magnificent burial grounds from the Dilmun era, dating back 5,000 years.
• Bahrain Fort & Museum: A grand statement honouring the founder of modern Bahrain, located on an ancient tell.
• Beit Sheikh Isa Bin Ali Al Khalifa: A traditional house constructed around 1800, offering a glimpse into pre-oil life in Bahrain.
• Saar Temple & Burial Chambers: A Dilmun-era temple dating back to 1900 BC, surrounded by unidentified buildings.
• Beit Al-Quran: A museum housing the finest collection of ancient Qurans in the region, with signage in English and Arabic.
• Al Jasra House: The glowing coral stonework summer residence of Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.
• Bu Mahir Fort: An ancient defence fort built around 1840 to spot invading boats, now staring out at the high-rises of Manama.
• Qalat Arad: A fort built by the Portuguese in the early 15th century, nicely restored and taking its name from the Greek name for Muharraq, Arados.

Natural Attractions

Bahrain also has natural wonders, including:

• Tree of Life: A lone, green tree in the desert, planted around 1583, and the subject of much mystique and allure.
• Al Bahair Mini Canyon & Wetlands: Huge, beautiful, natural rock formations of varying shapes and yellowish colour.
• Al Areen Wildlife Park & Reserve: A great-value family day out, with Arabian camels, springbok, Nubian gazelles, and Arabian Oryx.
• Al Dar Islands: Natural beaches nestled around a lagoon and artificial reef, with thatched-roof huts and water sports.
• Zallaq: Turquoise lagoons and white sands at Al Jazaer Beach, one of the best-loved public beaches in the region.

Cultural Attractions

Bahrain also has a thriving cultural scene:

• Manama Souq: A warren of narrow streets and alleyways where you can buy everything from electronics to exquisite carpets and pearls.
• Bab el-Bahrain Souk: A market where you can purchase gold jewellery, spices, clothing, and more, without the aggressive sales tactics found in Morocco.
• Al Jasra Handicraft Centre: A government-run centre encouraging the revival of traditional skills like model-boat building and basket weaving.
• La Fontaine Centre for Contemporary Art: A beautiful space showcasing regional and international contemporary artists.
• Muharraq Souq: An atmospheric old Bahraini bazaar where the needs of daily life are bought and bartered for.
• Pottery District: Bahrain's most famous pottery district, with giant amphorae and ceramic shops.
• Bahrain National Theatre: A stunning piece of modern architecture, inspired by the traditional badqeers (wind towers) of historic Bahraini homes.

Sporting Attractions

Bahrain is also known for its sporting attractions:

• Bahrain International Circuit: The Al Sakhir Tower of the Formula 1 Racetrack, a beacon rising above the desert.
• Riffa Golf Course: One of the most famous golf courses in the Middle East.
• Bahrain National Stadium: The largest football venue in the country, located in Isa Town.

Frequently asked questions