The Capital Move: Bahrain's 1971 Shift

In 1971, Manama became the capital of Bahrain, which had just gained independence from the United Kingdom. Manama is the largest city in Bahrain and is located in the north-eastern corner of the country. It is a financial, commercial, entertainment, and cultural hub and is home to important government buildings and ministries.

Manama's history as a trading centre

Manama, the capital of Bahrain, has long been an important trading centre in the Persian Gulf. In ancient times, the main harbour was located in Qal'at al-Bahrain, but since the 19th century, it has been in Manama. In the 1800s, Manama developed as part of a network of settlements that connected the Arabian Gulf to trade routes extending from the Mediterranean and the Red Sea to Southeast Asia. By the end of the 19th century, Manama was one of the most important trade hubs in the region.

Merchants played a crucial role in Manama's urban development, contributing to the establishment of various places of worship and residential areas. The city's prosperity was further accelerated by the discovery of oil in 1932, and by the 1950s, Manama's warehouses had become the largest in the Gulf. Today, Manama remains a vital hub for trade and finance in the Middle East, serving as the focal point of Bahrain's economy.

In addition to its economic significance, Manama has played a crucial role in Bahrain's political history. It served as the centre of British activity in the Persian Gulf during the Pax Britannica of the 19th century and was used as a military base during World War I. Manama was also a key site for anti-British protests and uprisings in the mid-20th century, which eventually led to Bahrain's independence in 1971.

Manama's diverse population

Manama, the capital of Bahrain, has a diverse population of around 726,505 people as of 2024. The city has long been an important trading centre in the Persian Gulf, and its population includes both native-born Bahrainis and expatriates from other countries.

In addition to its ethnic and national diversity, Manama is also religiously diverse. While Islam is the main religion, Christians, Hindus, and Jews also make up a significant part of the population.

Finally, Manama's diverse population is also reflected in its educational institutions, which include both public and private universities and colleges, such as Ahlia University, Applied Science University, and the College of Health and Sport Sciences.

Manama's economy

Manama, the capital of Bahrain, is the focal point of the country's economy. The city has a diverse population and has long been an important trading centre in the Persian Gulf.

In the 20th century, Bahrain's oil wealth helped spur fast growth, and in the 1990s, a diversification effort led to expansion in other industries, transforming Manama into a financial hub in the Middle East.

Today, Manama's economy is focused on financial services, with over 200 financial institutions and banks based in the CBD and the Diplomatic Area. It is a financial hub for the Persian Gulf region and a centre of Islamic banking.

However, Manama's economy has not always been centred on finance. In the early 20th century, the city's economy relied heavily on pearling, shipbuilding, and customs duties. Pearling alone was estimated to include 917 boats, providing employment for up to 18,000 people.

In recent years, Manama has also seen growth in other industries, including heavy industry (e.g. aluminium smelting, ship repair), banking, tourism, and retail. Several multinationals have facilities and offices in and around the city.

Manama's port, Mina Salman, can accommodate 16 ocean-going vessels and is one of the most important ports in the Persian Gulf. The city is also served by Bahrain International Airport, a premier hub airport in the Middle East.

With its diverse economy, strategic location, and well-developed infrastructure, Manama continues to be a key driver of Bahrain's economic development.

Manama's role as Bahrain's capital

Manama is the capital and largest city of Bahrain, with a population of around 297,502 as of 2012. It is located on the northeastern tip of Bahrain Island, in the Persian Gulf. Manama has been an important trading centre in the Persian Gulf for centuries and is known for its diverse population.

Manama was established as the capital of Bahrain in 1971, following the country's independence from British rule. The city has a long history, dating back to the Bronze Age, and was first mentioned in Islamic chronicles around 1345 CE. Over the centuries, it has been controlled by various empires, including the Portuguese and Persians, before coming under the rule of the Al Khalifa dynasty in 1783.

As the capital, Manama plays a crucial role in Bahrain's economy, politics, and culture. It is the focal point of the country's economy, with a focus on financial services, banking, and tourism. Many multinational companies have a presence in Manama, and it is home to numerous banks and financial institutions. The Bahrain Petroleum Company (BAPCO), however, is headquartered in Awali, located in the centre of Bahrain Island.

Manama is also a cultural hub, with a diverse range of historical and cultural sites. It is known for its traditional economy, based on pearling, fishing, boatbuilding, and import trade. The discovery of petroleum in 1932 revolutionised the city's economy, leading to the construction of modern buildings and infrastructure. Manama has a well-developed road network, an international airport, and port facilities.

The city is home to several universities, schools, and cultural institutions. It is known for its cosmopolitan nature, attracting a large number of foreigners and embracing diverse influences. Manama has a vibrant media landscape, with newspapers, television, and radio networks operating in multiple languages.

Overall, Manama plays a vital role as Bahrain's capital, serving as the country's economic, political, and cultural centre. It is a diverse and dynamic city, embracing its historical roots while also embracing modernisation and development.

Manama's climate

Manama, the capital and largest city of Bahrain, has an arid climate. The city experiences extreme temperatures, with summer temperatures reaching up to 45°C (113°F) and winter temperatures dropping as low as 7°C (45°F). The summer season, from May to September, is characterised by sweltering heat and oppressive humidity, with average daily highs above 95°F. July, the hottest month, sees average temperatures of 102°F. In contrast, the winter season, from December to March, brings cooler temperatures, with daily highs below 74°F. January, the coldest month, has average lows of 58°F.

Throughout the year, Manama experiences minimal rainfall, with precipitation almost non-existent. The month of January receives the highest amount of rainfall, with an average of 0.4 inches, while July typically sees no rainfall. The city enjoys abundant sunshine year-round, and the prevailing winds are the damp northwesterly Shamal and the dry, hot Qaws wind from the south.

With its arid climate, Manama's vegetation consists of desert plants, with about 200 species growing in the bare, arid regions surrounding the city. The irrigated and cultivated areas support fruit trees, fodder crops, and vegetables. The animal life is limited, with gazelles, hares, lizards, and jerboas among the species found in the region.

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