Urban Bahrain: Understanding The Country's Unique Landscape

The small Arab state of Bahrain is an archipelago of islands situated in a bay on the southwestern coast of the Persian Gulf. In 2023, 89.87% of its population was urban, with the share reaching 100% in 2024. The country's two principal cities, Manama and Al Muharraq, are home to the majority of its population. With a population density of 2,036.8 persons per square km, Bahrain is the fourth most densely populated sovereign state in the world.

Bahrain's population is 89-100% urban

Bahrain is a small Arab state situated in a bay on the southwestern coast of the Persian Gulf. It is an archipelago consisting of Bahrain Island and some 30 smaller islands. The country's population is heavily urbanised, with 89% of the population living in urban areas, according to a 2010 census. This figure had risen to 100% by 2024, according to the United Nations.

The capital and largest city is Manama, with a population of about 157,000 people and a metro population of 330,000. Manama is an important centre of trade and business within the Persian Gulf. The city is cosmopolitan and a favourite destination for visitors from neighbouring Saudi Arabia.

Bahrain has a total land area of 760 square kilometres (290 square miles) and is the third-smallest nation in Asia after the Maldives and Singapore. The country is very densely populated, with 1,627 people per square kilometre, which ranks 7th in the world. The northern region of Bahrain is so densely populated and urbanised that it is often considered a single large metropolitan area.

The population of Bahrain is expected to remain fairly stable over the next few decades, continuing its steady 1% annual growth rate. As of November 2024, the population was estimated to be 1,619,730, with a median age of 33.2 years.

Non-nationals make up more than half of Bahrain's population, with immigrants constituting about 52.6% of the overall population, according to a 2023 report. Of these, the vast majority are from South and Southeast Asia, including India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Indonesia.

The capital, Manama, is the largest city

Bahrain is a small island country situated near the western shores of the Persian Gulf, tucked in between Qatar and Saudi Arabia. With a total land area of just over 700 square kilometers, it is one of the smallest countries in the world. Despite its small size, Bahrain has a high level of urbanization, with an estimated 88% of its population living in urban areas, according to World Bank data from 2020. This makes it one of the most urbanized countries, not just in the region but in the entire world.

Now, let's focus on the role its largest city and capital, Manama, plays in this urbanization.

The city's history as a trading hub and port dates back thousands of years, but it was in the 20th century that Manama truly began to flourish and expand. The discovery of oil in the 1930s brought prosperity and a rapid increase in population, transforming Manama into a modern city. Today, it continues to grow, with new developments and infrastructure projects shaping its skyline.

Manama's urban landscape is diverse and dynamic. The city boasts a mix of traditional and modern architecture, with towering skyscrapers and glitzy malls contrasting with historic mosques and souks (markets). The city is divided into several districts, each with its own unique character. For example, the Diplomatic Area is home to government ministries and embassies, while the Manama Souq offers a glimpse into the city's past with its narrow alleys and traditional shops.

The city is also a cultural hub, hosting various festivals and events throughout the year, including the popular Spring of Culture festival, which celebrates music, film, and the arts. Manama's nightlife and culinary scene are also vibrant, attracting locals and tourists alike. As the country continues to develop and modernize, Manama is poised to remain at the forefront, leading Bahrain's urban future.

The population density is 2,036.8 persons per square km

Bahrain is a small island country in West Asia, situated in the Persian Gulf. It is the third-smallest nation in Asia, with a total land area of 760 square kilometres (293 square miles) and a population of 1,607,049 people as of 2024. This gives Bahrain a population density of 2,036.8 persons per square km.

The country is made up of a small archipelago of 50 natural islands and 33 artificial islands, centred on Bahrain Island, which makes up around 83% of the country's landmass. Bahrain is highly urbanised, with 100% of its population living in urban areas as of 2024. The population is spread unevenly across the islands, with the northern part of the country being largely urbanised and the Southern Governorate being the least densely populated area.

The population density of Bahrain is high compared to other countries, and it is the fourth most densely populated sovereign state in the world. The high population density is due in part to the country's small land area and the concentration of people in urban areas. Bahrain has a high proportion of expatriates, with non-Bahrainis making up 53.9% of the population as of 2023. The country also has a high median age of 33.2 years, indicating a relatively older population compared to other countries.

The capital and largest city, Manama, is located on Bahrain Island and is a major hub for finance and tourism. Bahrain has invested in infrastructure projects, such as the Bahrain International Airport and the Avenues shopping mall, to boost its image as a tourist destination. The country has a well-developed road network, with modern bridges and causeways connecting the main islands.

In summary, Bahrain's population density of 2,036.8 persons per square km reflects the country's small land area, high degree of urbanisation, and significant expatriate population. The country has a high median age and is highly urbanised, with the majority of its population living in the northern part of the country. Bahrain continues to develop its infrastructure and economy, positioning itself as a tourist destination and a hub for banking and finance in the region.

The country is an archipelago of 50 natural and 33 artificial islands

The Kingdom of Bahrain is an archipelago in the Persian Gulf, comprising 50 natural islands and 33 artificial islands. The country has a land area of 760 square kilometres (290 square miles) and is the third-smallest nation in Asia. Bahrain is situated between Qatar and Saudi Arabia's northeastern coast, to which it is connected by the King Fahd Causeway.

Bahrain has a population of around 1.6 million people, with a population density of 2,115 people per square kilometre (5,477 per square mile). The country is highly urbanised, with an urban population of 100% as of 2024.

The capital and largest city of Bahrain is Manama, located on Bahrain Island, which makes up around 83% of the country's landmass. Bahrain Island is the largest of the Bahraini islands, followed by the Hawar Islands, Muharraq Island, Umm an Nasan, and Sitra.

The country has a rich history, dating back to the ancient Dilmun civilisation. It was also a centre for pearl fisheries, known for having the best pearls in the world until the 19th century. Today, Bahrain is a high-income economy, recognised for its investment in the banking and tourism sectors.

Bahrain has been developing land to address its limited landmass. Land reclamation projects have increased the number of islands, with 84 islands recorded in 2008. The country plans to build five new artificial islands, which will increase its landmass by 60%. These islands will accommodate new cities, an airport, luxury residences, and waterfront resorts.

The artificial islands of Bahrain offer a range of attractions, including luxury villas, resorts, and recreational activities. The Amwaj Islands, for example, feature crystal clear waters, blue skies, and a variety of restaurants, cafes, and retail outlets. The Reef Island, located off the coast of Manama, offers luxury living, serenity, and relaxation.

In addition to its natural and artificial islands, Bahrain also has several man-made developments, such as the Bahrain Bay and the Durrat Al Bahrain resort.

The population is expected to remain stable with a 1% annual growth rate

The population of Bahrain is expected to remain stable with a 1% annual growth rate. In 2024, the population of Bahrain was estimated to be between 1,501,635 and 1,619,730, with the United Nations estimating a population of 1,607,049. This represents a 0.89% increase from 2023, when the population was 1,485,509. The population growth rate in Bahrain has been consistently low, with a 0.9% increase from 2021-2022 and a 0.96% decline from 2020-2021.

Bahrain is a small island country in West Asia, situated in the Persian Gulf and comprising a small archipelago of 50 natural islands and 33 artificial islands. With a total land area of 760 square kilometres, Bahrain is the third-smallest nation in Asia. The country is known for its cultural, ethnic, and religious diversity, with a population that is 70.2% Muslim and 29.8% adherents of other religions such as Christianity and Judaism.

The population of Bahrain has been steadily increasing over the years, with a total resident population of 1,234,571 in 2010, 1.316 million in 2014, and an estimated 1.592 million in 2020. The population growth rate in Bahrain is expected to remain stable, with a projected population of 2.128 million in 2030. This stable growth rate is reflected in the country's low annual population growth rate of 1%.

The population of Bahrain is distributed across five governorates: the Capital Manama, Muharraq, Northern, Central, and Southern. The median age in Bahrain is 33.2 years, and the country has a population density of 2,115 people per square kilometre. Bahrain is highly urbanised, with 100% of its population living in urban areas as of 2024.

In summary, the population of Bahrain is expected to remain stable with a low annual growth rate of 1%. The country has a diverse population distributed across its five governorates, with a high degree of urbanisation and a median age of 33.2 years.

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