History of Bahrain in Timeline
The Kingdom of Bahrain, an island nation in West Asia on the Persian Gulf, consists of approximately 83 islands. Connected to Saudi Arabia by the King Fahd Causeway, Bahrain sits between Qatar and the Saudi Arabian coast. At 760 square kilometers, it's the third smallest Asian nation, with a population of 1,501,635, including 712,362 Bahraini citizens. Its capital and largest city is Manama.
1903: German Explorer's Visit
In 1903, German explorer Hermann Burchardt visited Bahrain, documenting historical sites through photography. These photos are now stored at the Ethnological Museum of Berlin.
1911: Merchant Protest
In 1911, Bahraini merchants demanded restrictions on British influence, leading to the arrest and exile of the group's leaders to India.
1919: First Modern School Established
In 1919, Bahrain established its first modern school, a reform initiated under the advisory of Charles Belgrave.
1919: Modern Public School System in Bahrain
The year 1919 marked a significant development in Bahrain's education system with the opening of the Al-Hidaya Al-Khalifia School for boys in Muharraq, marking the beginning of a modern public school system in the country.
1923: British Reforms and Leadership Change
In 1923, the British introduced administrative reforms and replaced Sheikh Issa bin Ali with his son, causing some clerics and families to leave or be exiled to Saudi Arabia.
1926: Second Public School for Boys
Expanding access to education, the Education Committee inaugurated the second public school for boys in Manama in 1926, further solidifying the modern public education system.
1927: Iran's Sovereignty Claim
In 1927, Rezā Shāh of Iran demanded sovereignty over Bahrain, prompting Charles Belgrave to take harsh measures to limit Iranian influence and internal uprisings.
1928: First Public School for Girls
In a landmark event for female education in Bahrain, the first public school for girls was established in Muharraq in 1928, opening up new opportunities for girls' education.
1929: First Bridge Connects Manama and Muharraq
A bridge connecting Manama to Muharraq marked an important development in Bahrain's infrastructure in 1929, improving transportation and connectivity between the two islands.
1932: Bahrain International Airport Boosts Transit
The establishment of Bahrain International Airport in 1932 significantly increased transit between Manama and Muharraq, highlighting the role of air travel in the country's development.
1932: Oil Discovery
In 1932, the Bahrain Petroleum Company, a subsidiary of Standard Oil Company of California, discovered oil in Bahrain.
1937: Abolition of Slavery
In 1937, slavery was officially abolished in Bahrain, a significant reform during Charles Belgrave's tenure as an adviser.
September 1939: World War II Participation
In September 1939, Bahrain joined the Allied side in World War II.
October 1940: Italian Bombing Raid
On October 19, 1940, Italian bombers attacked Bahrain and Dhahran oilfields in Saudi Arabia, targeting Allied-operated oil refineries and prompting the Allies to upgrade Bahrain's defences.
1941: New Causeway Replaces Bridge
In 1941, a new causeway replaced the original wooden bridge connecting Manama and Muharraq, further enhancing transportation and signifying the islands' growing importance.
1948: Jewish Community Exodus
In 1948, rising hostilities and looting led to the evacuation of most of Bahrain's Jewish community to Bombay, with many later settling in Israel and the United Kingdom.
1948: Establishment of US Naval Presence in Bahrain
A US naval presence was established in Bahrain in 1948.
1957: Salmaniya Medical Complex Opens
Bahrain's first public and tertiary hospital, the Salmaniya Medical Complex, opened in the Salmaniya district of Manama in 1957.
1957: End of Charles Belgrave's Tenure
In 1957, Charles Belgrave ended his tenure as the de facto ruler of Bahrain, where he had served as an adviser bringing about many reforms since the 1920s.
1960: Universal Healthcare Implemented
In 1960, Bahrain established a universal healthcare system, providing free healthcare to Bahraini citizens and subsidized care for non-citizens.
1965: Month-Long Uprising
In 1965, a month-long uprising occurred in Bahrain after hundreds of workers at the Bahrain Petroleum Company were laid off.
August 1971: Independence and UN Membership
On August 15, 1971, Bahrain declared independence and signed a treaty of friendship with the United Kingdom, joining the United Nations and the Arab League later that year.
1971: Independence Declared
In 1971, Bahrain declared its independence from the United Kingdom, transitioning from a protectorate to an independent nation.
1973: First Parliamentary Elections in Bahrain
Bahrain held its inaugural parliamentary elections in 1973, marking a significant step towards a more representative political system.
1975: Beginning of the "State Security Law Era"
The period from 1975 to 1999, known as the "State Security Law Era," was marked by widespread human rights violations in Bahrain.
1976: Homosexuality Legalized
Bahrain legalized homosexuality in 1976.
1976: Legalization of Consensual Homosexual Relations
Consensual homosexual relations between adults over 21 years of age were legalized in Bahrain in 1976, making it the only Gulf Muslim country to do so.
1981: Failed Coup Attempt in Bahrain
A failed coup attempt took place in Bahrain in 1981, for which Bahrain blamed Iran.
1981: Batelco Established, Telecommunications Begin
Bahrain's telecommunications sector was officially launched in 1981 with the founding of Batelco, the country's first telecommunications company, marking the start of modern communication infrastructure.
1981: Failed Coup Attempt
In 1981, following the Iranian Islamic revolution, Bahraini Shia population orchestrated a failed coup attempt under the Islamic Front for the Liberation of Bahrain.
1985: Fluctuation of economic conditions
Since 1985, Bahrain's economic conditions have fluctuated with the changing price of oil, impacting its overall economic stability.
December 1986: King Fahd Causeway Completion
December 1986 marked the completion of the King Fahd Causeway, a 24-kilometer structure linking Bahrain to Saudi Arabia via Umm an-Nasan island. Financed by Saudi Arabia, the causeway significantly impacted regional connectivity.
1986: University of Bahrain Publications (1986-2014)
Between 1986 and 2014, the staff at the University of Bahrain produced a significant body of work, publishing a total of 5,500 papers and books during this period.
1986: University of Bahrain Established
The University of Bahrain, established in 1986, became a significant center for education and research, playing a vital role in the country's human capital development.
1990: Persian Gulf crisis impact
During and following the Persian Gulf crisis of 1990–91, Bahrain's economic conditions saw significant changes, influenced by global oil prices.
December 1994: Clash During Marathon
In December 1994, a clash with police erupted after a group of youths threw stones at female runners during an international marathon, escalating into civil unrest.
1994: Previous lowest GDP growth rate
In 1994, Bahrain experienced a notably low GDP growth rate, which was later surpassed by the 1.3% growth rate in 2011.
1995: Bahrain Connects to the Internet
Bahrain gained access to the internet in 1995, adopting the country domain suffix '.bh,' marking a significant step in integrating the nation into the global digital landscape.
1999: Batelco's Mobile Growth
By 1999, Batelco had surpassed 100,000 mobile contracts, reflecting the growing adoption of mobile phones and the expansion of telecommunications services in Bahrain.
1999: Succession of King Hamad Al Khalifa and Introduction of Reforms
Emir Hamad Al Khalifa ascended to the throne in 1999, succeeding his father, Isa Al Khalifa. He introduced significant reforms that led to notable improvements in human rights.
2000: Early Internet Usage in Bahrain
In 2000, Bahrain had approximately 40,000 internet users, representing 5.95% of the population, reflecting the early stages of internet adoption in the country.
February 2001: National Action Charter Referendum
On February 14–15, 2001, a referendum overwhelmingly supported the National Action Charter, marking significant political reforms in Bahrain.
October 2001: Participation in Afghanistan Military Action
In October 2001, Bahrain participated in military action against the Taliban, deploying a frigate in the Arabian Sea for rescue and humanitarian operations.
2001: Establishment of Private Universities
The year 2001 witnessed a significant step in higher education with the implementation of the National Action Charter, which paved the way for the establishment of private universities in Bahrain. This led to the founding of institutions like Ahlia University in Manama and University College of Bahrain in Saar.
2001: Designation as Major non-NATO Ally
The United States designated Bahrain as a major non-NATO ally in 2001.
2001: Religious Demographics in Bahrain
The 2001 census in Bahrain revealed the religious composition of the country: 81.2% of the population identified as Muslim, 10% as Christian, and 9.8% practiced Hinduism or other religions.
2001: Bahrain's Merchant Fleet
In 2001, Bahrain maintained a merchant fleet of eight ships with a gross tonnage exceeding 1,000 each, totaling 270,784 GT, highlighting the country's maritime trade activities.
February 2002: Kingdom of Bahrain Established
On February 14, 2002, Bahrain changed its formal name to the Kingdom of Bahrain, and Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa's title was changed from Emir to King.
2002: Bahrain's Road Network Expands
By 2002, Bahrain boasted an extensive road network of 3,164 kilometers, with 2,433 kilometers paved, reflecting the country's focus on infrastructure development and connectivity.
2002: Telecommunications Law and Regulatory Authority
Facing international pressure, Bahrain implemented a new telecommunications law in 2002, leading to the creation of the independent Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) to oversee the sector.
2002: Semi-Constitutional Monarchy Established
In 2002, Bahrain was declared a semi-constitutional monarchy, with the newly adopted constitution making Sharia a principal source for legislation.
2002: Opposition Boycotts Parliamentary Elections
The year 2002 saw parliamentary elections in Bahrain boycotted by the opposition group Al Wefaq, signaling dissatisfaction with the political process.
2002: Women Granted Voting and Election Rights
Women in Bahrain gained the right to vote and stand in national elections in 2002.
2003: Bahrain Implements Marine Conservation Measures
In a move to protect its marine life, Bahrain introduced a ban in 2003 on capturing sea cows, marine turtles, and dolphins within its territorial waters, underscoring a commitment to conservation.
April 2004: Inaugural Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix
The first-ever Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, the first Formula One race in an Arab country, was held on April 4, 2004.
2004: King Hamad Schools of Future Project
In 2004, King Hamad ibn Isa Al Khalifa spearheaded the innovative "King Hamad Schools of Future" project, aiming to leverage the power of Information Communication Technology (ICT) to enhance K-12 education in Bahrain. The project's core objective was to provide internet connectivity to all schools across the Kingdom.
2004: Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland Medical University
In a significant development in medical education, the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) established a constituent medical university in Bahrain in 2004, joining the ranks of other medical schools in the country, such as the Arabian Gulf University, AMA International University, and the College of Health Sciences.
2004: Zain Enters Bahrain's Telecom Market
In 2004, Zain, formerly MTC Vodafone, entered Bahrain's telecommunications market, ending Batelco's monopoly and fostering competition in the sector.
2004: Appointment of Nada Haffadh as First Female Cabinet Minister
Nada Haffadh became Bahrain's first female cabinet minister in 2004 when she was appointed Minister of Health.
2004: Bahrain-US Free Trade Agreement
In 2004, Bahrain signed the Bahrain–US Free Trade Agreement, reducing certain trade barriers between the two nations.
2004: Free Trade Agreement with the USA
In 2004, Bahrain negotiated a free trade agreement with the United States, following the country's political liberalisation.
2005: Government Withdraws Shia Family Law Amid Protests
In 2005, the Bahraini government withdrew the Shia branch of the "Family law" after facing large-scale protests from the Shia community, who opposed the law and asserted the authority of religious figures over such matters.
2005: Spring of Culture festival
Since 2005, Bahrain has hosted the annual Spring of Culture festival in March, featuring performances by internationally renowned musicians and artists.
2005: Royal University for Women
In a pioneering move for women's education, the Royal University for Women (RUW) was inaugurated in 2005. As the first private, purpose-built, international university in Bahrain exclusively for women, it marked a major milestone in providing higher education opportunities for women in the country.
2005: Growth of Bahraini Scientific Output
Starting from a base of 93 articles in 2005, Bahrain's scientific output has experienced a gradual increase, albeit remaining relatively modest.
2005: UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 2005, Qal'at al-Bahrain, a fort and archaeological complex, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2005: Second Bahrain Grand Prix
Bahrain hosted its second Formula One Grand Prix in 2005.
January 2006: UN report on Bahrain's economy
In January 2006, a United Nations report highlighted Bahrain as having the fastest-growing economy in the Arab world.
June 2006: Islamist Party Opposes International Convention
During a June 2006 parliamentary session, the Islamist party Asalah voiced its opposition to ratifying the United Nations' International Convention on Civil and Political Rights, reflecting a skeptical stance towards international agreements.
2006: Desert 400 V8 Supercar Event
Bahrain hosted its first Australian V8 Supercar event, the "Desert 400," in 2006.
2006: Al Wefaq Wins Parliamentary Majority
In 2006, Al Wefaq secured a majority in Bahrain's parliamentary elections, demonstrating a shift in the political landscape.
2006: Appointment of Haya bint Rashid Al Khalifa as President of the UN General Assembly
In 2006, Bahrain was elected to head the United Nations General Assembly and appointed Haya bint Rashid Al Khalifa as President, making her the third woman in history to hold this position.
2006: Lateefa Al Gaood becomes first female MP
In 2006, Lateefa Al Gaood became the first female MP in Bahrain after winning by default, marking a significant milestone in the country's political history.
2006: Third Bahrain Grand Prix
The opening Grand Prix of the 2006 Formula One season was hosted in Bahrain on March 12, 2006.
2007: Bahrain's Population Reaches One Million
In 2007, Bahrain's population reached a milestone, exceeding one million people, with 517,368 of them being non-nationals.
2007: Resurgence of Torture and Decline in Human Rights Conditions
Human rights conditions in Bahrain began to deteriorate around 2007, marked by the resurgence of torture.
2007: Unemployment benefits introduction
In 2007, Bahrain became the first Arab country to introduce unemployment benefits as part of labor reforms led by Minister of Labour, Majeed Al Alawi.
2007: Petroleum products in exports
In 2007, Bahrain's exports consisted largely of petroleum products made from imported crude oil, which accounted for 51% of the country's imports.
August 2008: Land Reclamation Increases Bahrain's Islands
By August 2008, Bahrain's land reclamation efforts led to a significant increase in the number of islands and island groups, rising from 33 to 84, demonstrating the country's ongoing development and expansion.
October 2008: Introduction of Vision 2030
In October 2008, the Bahraini government introduced 'Vision 2030', a long-term economic vision aimed at transforming Bahrain into a diversified and sustainable economy.
November 2008: Regional Centre for ICT Established
An agreement to establish a Regional Centre for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in Manama, supported by UNESCO, was signed in November 2008. The center aims to serve as a knowledge hub for Gulf Cooperation Council countries.
2008: Remaining Jewish Population
As of 2008, only 37 Jews remained in Bahrain, following the community's significant exodus in 1948.
2008: Houda Nonoo appointed ambassador
In 2008, Houda Nonoo was appointed as the ambassador to the United States, making her the first Jewish ambassador of any Arab country.
2008: Bahrain's Economic Vision 2030 Published
Bahrain released its Economic Vision 2030 document in 2008, outlining its long-term economic diversification strategy to reduce reliance on oil revenue.
2008: Start of International Scientific Collaboration Period
This year marks the beginning of the period during which Bahraini scientists actively engaged in collaborative research efforts with peers from various countries.
2008: King Fahd Causeway Traffic
In 2008, the King Fahd Causeway handled over 17 million passengers, demonstrating its crucial role in facilitating travel and economic ties between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia.
2008: Unemployment statistics
In 2008, the unemployment rate in Bahrain was 4%, with women accounting for 85% of the total unemployed population.
2008: Field Marshal Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa Appointed Commander-in-Chief
In 2008, Field Marshal Khalid bin Ahmed Al Khalifa assumed the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF), marking a significant appointment within the military leadership.
2008: Bahrain named fastest-growing financial centre
In 2008, Bahrain was recognized as the world's fastest-growing financial centre by the City of London's Global Financial Centres Index, driven by its booming banking and financial services sector.
2008: Internet Users Increase in Bahrain
By 2008, the number of internet users in Bahrain significantly increased to 250,000, accounting for 33% of the population, demonstrating the rapid growth of internet penetration and usage.
2008: Indian Nationals in Bahrain
By 2008, approximately 290,000 Indian nationals resided in Bahrain, forming the largest expatriate community in the country. Many of these individuals originated from the south Indian state of Kerala.
2009: Limited Research and Development Investment
Bahrain's investment in research and development remained notably low in 2009, reported as 0.04% of GDP, hindering potential advancements in science and technology.
2009: Internet Access in Bahrain and Other Gulf Countries
In 2009, internet access varied among Gulf countries, with Bahrain and Qatar having 53% penetration, while the United Arab Emirates had a higher rate of 64%, highlighting the differences in internet adoption within the region.
2009: Bahrain Centre for Strategic Studies Founded
In 2009, the Bahrain Centre for Strategic, International, and Energy Studies was established to conduct research on security and energy issues, aiming to inform policy decisions and foster new thinking.
2010: Bahrain's Population Growth
By 2010, Bahrain's population reached 1.2 million, comprising 568,399 Bahrainis and 666,172 non-nationals. This marked a significant increase from 2007, when the population surpassed the one million mark.
2010: Final Desert 400
The V8 Supercar event in Bahrain continued annually until 2010, marking the last time the series was held there.
2010: Changes in Religious Demographics
The 2010 census indicated a notable shift in Bahrain's religious makeup. The proportion of Muslims in the population decreased to 70.2%. Notably, this census did not provide a breakdown of non-Muslim religions.
2010: Al Khalifa Family Dominates Bahraini Cabinet
In 2010, approximately half of Bahrain's cabinet positions were held by members of the Al Khalifa family, illustrating the significant influence and control the ruling family exerted over the government.
2010: VIVA Becomes Third Mobile Provider
VIVA, a subsidiary of STC Group, entered Bahrain's mobile services market in 2010, further diversifying the sector and offering consumers more choices.
2010: Christian and Jewish Communities in Bahrain
According to the 2010 census, Christians in Bahrain accounted for about 14.5% of the total population, with the majority being expatriates. Native Christian Bahrainis numbered around 1,000. The Jewish community, while smaller, also had a presence, with various sources estimating their numbers to be between 36 and 50 individuals.
2010: Al Wefaq Maintains Parliamentary Majority
Al Wefaq retained its majority in Bahrain's 2010 parliamentary elections, signifying continued support for the opposition group.
2011: Alice Samaan appointed ambassador
In 2011, Alice Samaan, a Christian woman, was appointed as the ambassador to the United Kingdom, reflecting Bahrain's progressive approach to diversity in diplomatic positions.
2011: Bahraini Uprising
The Bahraini uprising in 2011 witnessed a significant presence of Shia protestors, highlighting the underlying tensions and grievances related to political representation and economic opportunities within the country.
2011: Bahrain Grand Prix Cancelled
The Bahrain Grand Prix was canceled in 2011 due to anti-government protests.
2011: Bahraini Uprising
The 2011 Bahraini uprising was driven by demands for an elected government from the Shia majority, challenging the Sunni monarchy. The government suppressed the protests.
2011: Arab Spring Uprising in Bahrain
Inspired by the Arab Spring, Bahrain's Shia majority initiated protests against the Sunni rulers in 2011, demanding a more democratic government. The government responded with force, leading to clashes and deaths.
2011: Arab Spring Uprising and Deposing of Ali Abdullah Saleh
In 2011, during the Arab Spring uprising, former President Ali Abdullah Saleh was deposed.
2011: Journalists targeted during protests
In 2011, Bahraini journalists faced prosecution and targeting by officials during anti-government protests. This included the sacking and fining of three editors from the opposition daily Al-Wasat for publishing 'false' news, and the expulsion of several foreign correspondents.
2011: Bahrain's economic freedom ranking
In 2011, Bahrain was ranked by the Index of Economic Freedom as having the freest economy in the Middle East and the twelfth-freest overall in the world.
2011: Impact of Great Recession and uprising
In 2011, Bahrain's GDP growth rate decreased to 1.3%, the lowest since 1994, due to the combined effects of the Great Recession and the 2011 Bahraini uprising.
2011: Ali Al Shargawi Recognized as Literary Icon
In 2011, Al Shorfa described Ali Al Shargawi, a decorated Bahraini poet, as the literary icon of Bahrain.
2011: Human Rights Watch Report and Criticism of Bahrain's Human Rights Situation
Human Rights Watch published a report in 2011, describing Bahrain's human rights situation as "dismal." This criticism led to a decline in Bahrain's international standing regarding human rights.
2011: By-Election Held After Al Wefaq Resignations
Following the resignation of 18 Al Wefaq members in protest of the government crackdown, a by-election took place in 2011 to fill the vacant parliamentary seats.
2011: Detention of bloggers and netizens
During the 2011 protests, bloggers and other netizens in Bahrain were among those detained, highlighting the government's stringent control over online activities.
2011: Number of Students in Public Schools
By 2011, the public school system in Bahrain had grown significantly, with a total of 126,981 students enrolled in various public schools across the country.
2011: Crackdown on the Arab Spring Uprising
Bahrain faced criticism for its crackdown on the Arab Spring uprising in 2011.
March 2012: Regional Centre for ICT Hosts Workshops
In March 2012, the Regional Centre for ICT in Manama hosted high-level workshops focusing on the intersection of ICT and education, highlighting the importance of technology in educational development.
April 2012: Continued Human Rights Violations Despite Promises of Reform
Despite promises of reform following a government-appointed commission's confirmation of human rights violations in 2011, reports by Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch in April 2012 revealed that these violations continued.
June 2012: Bahrain internet users statistics
By June 2012, Bahrain had 961,000 internet users. The platform was noted for offering a relatively free space for journalists, although it was increasingly monitored and filtered for political, human rights, religious, and obscene content.
2012: Bahrain's Diplomatic Network
As of 2012, Bahrain had a network of 25 embassies, three consulates, and four permanent missions.
2012: Low Education Spending in Bahrain
Bahrain allocated 2.6% of its GDP to education in 2012, one of the lowest rates in the Arab world, indicating a potential need for increased investment in human capital development.
2012: Controversial Bahrain Grand Prix
Despite ongoing protests and safety concerns, the Bahrain Grand Prix took place in 2012, sparking controversy.
2012: Manama named Arab Capital of Culture
In 2012, Manama was named the Arab Capital of Culture, with the Spring of Culture festival featuring concerts by Andrea Bocelli, Julio Iglesias, and other musicians.
2012: Bahrain Pearling Trail Awarded World Heritage Status
In 2012, UNESCO recognized the Bahrain Pearling Trail, encompassing three oyster beds, as a World Heritage Site, acknowledging its historical and cultural significance as a testament to the island's pearling economy.
2012: Revocation of Citizenship of Four Bahraini Individuals
In 2012, the Bahraini government revoked the citizenship of four individuals, a move that drew criticism from international human rights organizations.
August 2013: Internet Service Providers Licensed
By August 2013, the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) had granted licenses to 22 Internet Service Providers, indicating Bahrain's focus on expanding internet access and competition.
2013: Bahrain Leads Arab World in Internet Penetration
Bahrain achieved the highest internet penetration rate in the Arab world in 2013, with 90% of its population having access, showcasing the country's success in expanding internet infrastructure and adoption.
2013: Contribution of Women to Research
Data from 2013, focusing solely on the higher education sector in Bahrain, makes it challenging to fully assess the contributions of women to research.
2013: Low Number of Researchers in Bahrain
Data from 2013, focusing solely on the higher education sector, revealed a low number of researchers in Bahrain, equivalent to 50 per million inhabitants. This figure falls significantly short of the global average of 1,083 per million across all sectors, highlighting a potential need to encourage and support research activities.
2013: Low Investment in Research and Development
Despite the economic diversification goals, investment in research and development in Bahrain remained limited in 2013, posing a challenge to innovation and long-term economic growth.
2013: Manama named Capital of Arab Tourism
In 2013, Manama was named the Capital of Arab Tourism by the Arab League.
2013: Research and Development Investment Remains Low
Similar to 2009, Bahrain's investment in research and development continued to be limited in 2013 at 0.04% of GDP, underscoring the need for increased funding to foster innovation.
2013: Bahrain Science Centre Opens
The Bahrain Science Centre was inaugurated in 2013, offering interactive educational experiences for young people aged 6 to 18, covering various scientific topics to promote interest in STEM fields.
2013: Global Average of Scientific Publications
The global average for scientific publications in 2013 was 176 articles per million inhabitants, providing a benchmark for comparison with Bahrain's output.
March 2014: Protests and Deaths in Bahrain
By March 2014, the conflict between Bahrain's government and protesters resulted in over 80 civilian and 13 police deaths. The protests were met with a government crackdown, including arrests and torture.
April 2014: National Space Science Agency Launched
In April 2014, Bahrain established its National Space Science Agency, signifying the country's ambition to engage in space exploration and research. The agency has been working on joining international space agreements and building related infrastructure.
October 2014: Freedom House Rating and Assessment of Bahrain's Governance
As of October 2014, Freedom House, a US-based NGO, classified Bahrain's regime as "authoritarian" and rated the country as "Not Free." This assessment highlighted concerns about the state of freedom and democracy in Bahrain.
2014: Manama named Capital of Asian Tourism
In 2014, Manama was named the Capital of Asian Tourism.
2014: University of Bahrain Statistics
In 2014, the University of Bahrain had over 20,000 students, with women making up 65% of the student body. The university employed around 900 faculty members, with women representing 40% of the faculty. Additionally, the university allocated approximately US$11 million for research purposes in 2014.
2014: Bahraini Scientific Publications
In 2014, Bahraini scientists made their mark with 155 articles published in internationally recognized journals, as documented by Thomson Reuters' Web of Science (Science Citation Index Expanded). This output equates to 15 articles per million inhabitants.
2014: Female Graduates in Science and Engineering
In 2014, Bahrain stood out as one of 11 Arab states where the majority of university graduates in science and engineering fields were women. Notably, women constituted 66% of graduates in natural sciences, 28% in engineering, and a remarkable 77% in health and welfare.
2014: International Scientific Collaboration
Between 2008 and 2014, Bahraini scientists demonstrated a strong collaborative spirit, particularly with their counterparts in Saudi Arabia, resulting in a total of 137 co-authored articles. Other notable collaborations included Egypt (101 articles), the United Kingdom (93 articles), the United States (89 articles), and Tunisia (75 articles).
2015: Amnesty International Report on Continued Suppression of Dissent
Amnesty International's 2015 report on Bahrain highlighted the continued suppression of dissent, restricted freedom of expression, unjust imprisonment, and frequent instances of torture and ill-treatment of citizens.
July 2016: European Parliament Resolution Condemning Human Rights Abuses
The European Parliament passed a resolution in July 2016 condemning human rights abuses committed by Bahraini authorities. The resolution urged an end to the ongoing suppression of human rights defenders, political opposition, and civil society in Bahrain.
2016: Severing of Diplomatic Ties with Iran
Bahrain and Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic relations with Iran in 2016 following the storming of the Saudi embassy in Tehran.
2016: Bahrain's biocapacity per person
In 2016, Bahrain had 0.52 global hectares of biocapacity per person within its territory, significantly lower than the world average of 1.6 global hectares per person.
2016: Biocapacity deficit in Bahrain
In 2016, Bahrain used 8.6 global hectares of biocapacity per person, which is 16.5 times more than what the country contains, resulting in a biocapacity deficit.
2016: Manama named Gulf Capital of Tourism
In 2016, Manama was named the Gulf Capital of Tourism by The Gulf Cooperation Council.
August 2017: US Secretary of State Condemns Discrimination Against Shias
US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson criticized Bahrain's discrimination against its Shia population in August 2017, calling for an end to discriminatory practices.
September 2017: Approval of Arms Sales to Bahrain by the US
Despite concerns about human rights, the US State Department approved arms sales to Bahrain worth over $3.8 billion in September 2017, including F-16 jets, upgrades, missiles, and patrol boats.
2017: Bahrain's Rise in MMA
In 2017, Bahrain became the first nation besides the USA to host the International Mixed Martial Arts Federation World Championships of Amateur MMA, experiencing an influx of global athletes for MMA training.
2017: Bahrain Victorius Participates in Tour de France
The Bahrain Victorius, a UCI WorldTeam cycling team sponsored by the government of Bahrain, participated in the 2017 Tour de France.
January 2018: Expulsion of Bahraini Citizens and Revocation of Nationality
Amnesty International reported in January 2018 that the Bahraini government had expelled four of its citizens after revoking their nationality in 2012, rendering them stateless.
February 2018: Sentencing of Nabeel Rajab
Human rights activist Nabeel Rajab was sentenced to an additional five years in prison in February 2018 for tweets and documentation of human rights violations in Bahrain.
April 2018: Inauguration of HMS Jufair
The permanent British Royal Navy base, HMS Jufair, was officially opened at Mina Salman in April 2018.
2018: US State Department Report on Religious Freedom in Bahrain
The US Department of State, in its 2018 report on religious freedom in Bahrain, estimated that Shias made up roughly 55% of the country's citizen population.
2018: Cricket Introduced to Bahrain
Cricket was introduced in Bahrain in 2018 under the initiative of KHK Sports and Exelon with the Bahrain Premier League.
January 2019: Value Added Tax Introduction
In January 2019, Bahrain introduced a Value Added Tax (VAT) at a rate of 5% on goods and services. This multipoint tax aims to diversify government revenue and is ultimately passed on to consumers.
January 2019: Announcement of underwater theme park
In January 2019, the Bahrain News Agency announced the opening of an underwater theme park in the summer of 2019. The park, featuring a sunken Boeing 747, artificial coral reefs, and other attractions, aims to attract scuba divers from around the world.
October 2019: Opening of The Avenues
In October 2019, Bahrain opened The Avenues, a waterfront-facing shopping mall, as part of its economic reforms to boost tourism and showcase a more authentic Arab experience.
2019: Establishment of American University of Bahrain
Adding to the growing higher education landscape, the American University of Bahrain was established in 2019, offering students a new option for pursuing higher education.
2019: Bahrain's Football Success
Bahrain's national football team, managed by Helio Sousa, won the West Asian Football Federation cup and the Arabian Gulf Cup in 2019.
2019: Bahrain International Airport Performance
In 2019, Bahrain International Airport (BAH) saw significant traffic with nearly 100,000 flights and over 9.5 million passengers, indicating the airport's importance in regional travel.
2019: Tourism statistics
In 2019, Bahrain received over eleven million visitors, primarily from surrounding Arab states, but also increasingly from outside the region due to its growing heritage profile and the Bahrain Grand Prix.
April 2020: Bahrain Establishes COVID-19 Financial Aid Committee
In April 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic impacted economies globally, Bahrain formed a committee dedicated to providing financial support to private-sector employees for three months, mitigating the economic strain caused by the pandemic.
August 2020: Transfer of HMS Clyde to the Royal Bahrain Naval Force
In August 2020, HMS Clyde was transferred to the Royal Bahrain Naval Force and renamed RBNS Al-Zubara.
August 2020: Bahrain Invests in Paris F.C.
In August 2020, the Kingdom of Bahrain purchased a minority stake in Paris F.C., a French football club, sparking criticism about potential sportswashing.
2020: Establishment of Diplomatic Relations with Israel
Bahrain and Israel formally established bilateral relations in 2020 under the Bahrain-Israel normalization agreement.
2020: Public debt in 2020
In 2020, Bahrain's public debt reached $44.5 billion, accounting for 130% of its GDP, largely due to military expenditure.
2020: Religion in Bahrain
The Pew Research Center conducted a study on the religious landscape of Bahrain in 2020, providing insights into the country's diverse faiths and demographics.
January 28, 2021: New Airport Terminal Opens
On January 28, 2021, Bahrain inaugurated a new terminal at Bahrain International Airport (BAH). This expansion significantly increased the airport's capacity to 14 million passengers, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the country's aviation sector.
2021: Reaffirmation of "Not Free" Status by Freedom House
Freedom House reaffirmed Bahrain's status as "not free" in its 2021 report, indicating ongoing concerns about the state of political rights and civil liberties in the country.
2021: Shia Majority in Bahrain
Official data from 2021 confirmed that the majority of Bahraini Muslims identify as Shia Muslims. This makes Bahrain one of only three countries in the Middle East, alongside Iraq and Iran, where Shiites constitute the majority of the population.
January 2022: Value Added Tax Increase
Effective January 2022, Bahrain raised its Value Added Tax (VAT) from 5% to 10% to further bolster government revenue. The increase was accompanied by stricter enforcement and auditing to ensure compliance.
2022: Employment statistics Q4 2022
As of Q4 2022, total employment in Bahrain was 746,145 workers, including both Bahraini and Non-Bahraini workers, indicating a full recovery from the downturn caused by the COVID pandemic.
May 14, 2023: Population Data Update
On May 14, 2023, Bahrain's population was recorded at 1,501,635, with 712,362 being Bahraini nationals, according to elaborations of United Nations data.
2023: Bahrain Ranked Low in Electoral Democracy Index
According to the V-Dem Democracy indices, Bahrain held the fourth lowest ranking for electoral democracy in the Middle East in 2023, raising concerns about the state of democratic processes in the country.
2023: Bahrain's Global Innovation Index Ranking
In 2023, Bahrain ranked 67th on the Global Innovation Index, providing insight into the country's innovation performance relative to other nations.
January 2024: Acquisition of a Second Oliver Hazard Perry-class Frigate
In January 2024, Bahrain received a second Oliver Hazard Perry-class frigate, formerly known as USS Robert G. Bradley, and renamed it RBNS Khalid bin Ali.
April 2024: Widespread Flooding in Bahrain
In April 2024, Bahrain experienced significant flooding due to heavy rainfall that affected the entire Gulf region. The country's vulnerability to such weather events was highlighted.
2024: Global Peace Index Ranking
The 2024 Global Peace Index ranked Bahrain as the 81st most peaceful country in the world.
2024: Bahrain Olympic Academy Receives Athena Honorary Distinction
The Bahrain Olympic Academy was awarded the Athena honorary distinction on June 10, 2024, for its contribution to sports advancement in the region.
2025: Nationwide Metro System Anticipated
Bahrain is actively developing a nationwide metro system, with an expected operational date of 2025, aiming to modernize public transportation and alleviate traffic congestion.
2026: Future public debt projection
By 2026, Bahrain's public debt is expected to rise to 155% of GDP, according to IMF estimates, primarily driven by military expenditure.
2030: Economic Vision 2030
Bahrain's Economic Vision 2030, unveiled in 2008, outlines the country's ambition to transition from an oil-based economy to a more diversified and globally competitive one.
2030: Vision 2030
Vision 2030, introduced in 2008, aims to transform Bahrain into a diversified and sustainable economy by the year 2030.