Bahrain: 50 years of Progress - Special Edition - December 2021

Bahrain:

50 years of progress DECEMBER 2021

Dedication

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Bahrain National Day

Dedicated to His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa Crown Prince and Prime Minister And the citizens and residents of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

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Editors Note

Letter from the Publisher Welcome to this very special 50th Bahrain National Day publication.

Bahrain Independence Day occurred on 15th August 1971, when the country declared its independence from Great Britain, signing a friendship treaty with Britain that terminated previous agreements between the two countries.

Although 15th August is the date on which Bahrain gained its independence, the Kingdom does not celebrate or mark that date. Instead, it celebrates 16 December as its National Day to coincide with the day that the late emir (ruler) Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa ascended to the throne.

Sheikh Isa was the first ruler of a modern and independent Bahrain. Beloved by his people, during his 38-year reign he introduced many reforms and led his country into its national economic transformation, making Bahrain an important financial center in the Arabian Gulf.

Great developments and reforms continued under the wise leadership of his son and Bahrain's current ruler, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

We hope you enjoy our special tribute to Bahrain. We've included a wealth of photos of our beautiful island from over the years. Many are of scenes that some of us will remember, while others show the island long before any of us were born.

I and my team wish you a very happy National Day. Nicholas C. Cooksey Publisher - Gulf Insider Media Arabian Magazines Group

Publisher & Editor in Chief

Nicholas C. Cooksey

Editorial

Angela Acosta Elyzabeth Ramirez

Editorial Contributor

Atharie Al Salem

Sales & Business Development

Charlie Cooksey

Marketing

Vinita V

Layout Designs

Dhanraj S

Admin & Finance

Nikesh Pola

Photography

Angelo Jose A

For advertising contact Charlie Cooksey +973 3652 0004 charlie@gulf-insider.com

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Published by:

A Division of C. G. Arabia WLL

P.O. Box 26810, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel. +973 1782 2388, Fax. +973 1772 1722 info@ArabianMagazines.com www.ArabianMagazines.com Registered with Ministry of Information approval no. TFI-431©. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. All Rights Reserved. Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Vision.

Growth.

Impact.

At Tamkeen, we empower businesses and human talent through diversified programs that lead to positive change in the private sector. We promote a culture of adaptability, growth and dynamism in Bahrain’s market.

History

Our History T

he 50th Bahrain National Day issue is a rather special edition as we also celebrate the vibrant history of Gulf Insider Media. A lot has changed over the course of a long and tumultuous decade and a half, but one thing that has remained constant is the vital role that we play in sharing the “Best in Bahrain”.

When our publications were launched two decades ago, social media didn’t exist unless you call it email social media. Since then, our platforms have grown and we are now one of the most influential publications in the Kingdom’s online scene.

In this 50th Anniversary Issue, Bahrain Confidential and Gulf Insider will be putting together a volume representing the bests of the Kingdom. Celebrating the past, grasping the present and preparing for the future - those are what we aim to embody in this special edition.

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History

History Bahrain Confidential was established in 2001 and is a Bahrainbased monthly publication available both in print and online editions. It is the definitive guide to high-end Arabian luxury and lifestyle.

The first issue of Bahrain Confidential was launched in November of 2001. When we launched the magazine, it was a quarterly publication and was half the size of a large format A5. On a later date, we became monthly – at the heart of our content has always been the ‘Best of Bahrain’. We always share ideas on the best places to go in Bahrain and how to get the most of living in this island, whether you’re a citizen or an expat.

Bahrain Confidential was established in 2001 and is a Bahrain-based monthly publication available both in print and online editions.

It was an interesting to launch Bahrain Confidential because it was very shortly after the 9/11; the horrific atrocity that

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History

Six years ago, we became heavily involved with social media. Bahrain Confidential now has the second largest social media presence of any publication in Bahrain, after our sister publication, Gulf Insider.

We believe that one cannot inform without entertaining first – therefore, we try to make the magazine as entertaining as possible and also beautiful, in its layout and design. A lot of things have changed but our voice has remained consistent over the years; we have a policy of writing in a crisp and concise way. n

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happened at the twin towers in New York. How this affected us? Many people who were going to support the publication through advertising, hunkered down and withdrew. Despite this, we still launched the magazine… and that was 20 years ago!

We believe that one cannot inform without entertaining first – therefore, we try to make the magazine as entertaining as possible and also beautiful, in its layout and design.

History

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History of Bahrain

A Brief History of

Bahrain

The Kingdom of Bahrain is the cradle of the Dilmun Civilization (BC 5000) – one of the oldest civilizations in the Middle East.

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History of Bahrain

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Subsequently, Bahrain was known as Tylos and was extremely famous for its pearls. The oyster beds on the north of the island were the center of a natural pearl fishery that dominated the Arabian Gulf from at least the 3rd century BC until the early 20th century.

Bahrain National Day

Bahrain was one of the first places to embrace Islam, and remained under Islamic rule until Portuguese forces occupied it from 1521 to 1602. From 1602 to 1783, the Safavid Persian Empire displaced the Portuguese and ruled. In 1783, the Al Khalifa family started its rule and their descendants continue to lead the country to this day. n

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he name "Bahrain" is derived from the Arabic word “bahr”, meaning “sea”. The name may reflect the archipelago’s position between two seas, approximately 24 kilometers east of Saudi Arabia’s sea board and a little further from the north west coast of Qatar.

Bahrain has a rich history. Its strategic location has brought influence from traders traveling between the ancient Mesopotamia and Indian civilizations. Meanwhile, the discovery of over 100,000 burial mounds at Saar, Aali and other places at the northern part of the island is believed to be the largest prehistoric cemetery in the world.

The Kingdom of Bahrain is the cradle of the Dilmun Civilization (BC 5000) – one of the oldest civilizations in the Middle East.

Having been the cultural center, this civilization granted knowledge to humanity in numerous subjects.

Bahrain was one of the first places to embrace Islam, and remained under Islamic rule until Portuguese forces occupied it from 1521 to 1602.

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Manama Souq 1965

History of Bahrain

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History of Bahrain Shaikh Hamad pronounced Bahrain a monarchy and changed his constitutional status from Emir to King on 14th February.

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Bahrain National Day The Al Khalifa family seizes power from Persia.

1783

2002

Britain assumes responsibility for Bahrain's defence and foreign relations.

1999

Shaikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa succeeded the throne in March, after the death of his father Shaikh Isa bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s ruler since 1961.

1861

The American Mission Hospital (AMH), established by the Dutch Reform Church, began work.

1903

1913

The country’s first modern school was established, with the opening of the AlHiddaya Boys School.

1919 1928

The Bahrain Petroleum Company, a subsidiary of Standard Oil, discovers oil and production begins the following year.

Bahrain’s first girls’ school opens.

1931

1939

Sheikh Isa BinSalman Al Khalifa becomes ruler.

Britain and the Ottoman government sign a treaty recognising the independence of Bahrain, but the country remains under British administration.

Britain decides that the Hawar Islands that lie between Bahrain and Qatar belong to Bahrain.

1961

1986

The King Fahd Causeway connecting Bahrain to Saudi Arabia is officially opened to the public.

1985

The Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company plant is completed.

1976

The inauguration flight of British Airways Concorde flies from London to Bahrain.

1973

Elections are held for a National Assembly advisory body, which consists of the 14 cabinet members plus 30 MPs elected by male voters over the age of 20.

1972

Elections are held for a Constituent Assembly. Only Bahraini males over 20 can vote.

1971

HRH Prince Khalifa bin Salman Hamad Al Khalifa was appointed as Prime Minister.

1971

Bahrain declares itself fully independent on 15th August.

1968

The British Government announces its decision (reaffirmed in March 1971) to end the treaty relationships with the Persian Gulf sheikdoms.

1967 Britain moves its main regional naval base from Aden to Bahrain, a year before deciding to close all its bases east of Suez by 1971.

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History of Bahrain

TIMELINE

Local elections are held, Bahrain's first poll for almost 30 years. For the first time women vote and stand as candidates, but fail to win a seat.

2002 2004

A new discovery was found off the coast of Bahrain, that contains an estimated 80 billion barrels of tight oil.

The Bahrain Grand Prix has its official Formula One Championship race at the Bahrain International Circuit on 4th April.

2004

2018

The construction of Bahrain’s Financial Harbour begins.

2004

2017

Bahrain parliament approves military trials for civilians.

Michael Jackson arrives in Bahrain to recover from media scrutiny in the US.

2005

2017

Bahrain announces its cutting ties with Qatar.

2016

Bahrain emerged as the topranked Arab nation on the final medal tally at the conclusion of the 2016 Rio Olympic Games in Brazil.

2015

Bahrain has maintained its global second position globally, according to the Islamic Finance Development Indicator (IFDI) 2015 report.

2014

Manama was named as the Capital Asian Tourism by the Arab League.

2013

Manama was named as the Capital Arab Tourism by the Arab League.

2012

Bahrain’s Formula One Grand Prix went ahead amid rising tensions in the country.

Nada Haffadh is made health minister - the first woman to head a government ministry.

More than 4.8 million passengers transited Bahrain International Airport.

2005

Bilateral trade exceeded USD1 billion for the first time, representing almost 50% growth over 2005.

2006

The First Spring of Culture takes place in collaboration with the Economic Development Board and Culture and National Heritage sector.

2006

The completion of the Bahrain World Trade Centre.

It’s the first skyscraper in the world to integrate wind turbines into design.

The Bahrain Financial Harbour offices open for business.

Lateefah Al-Qauod becomes the first woman elected to parliament.

2008

2009 2010 2011

Four women have been officially elected to parliament.

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History of Bahrain

Bahrain wins Human Rights Council membership.

2018

2019

Bahrain launches world’s largest underwater park.

2020

World Health Organization praises Bahrain’s overall comprehensive approach to the pandemic.

2021

Bahrain opens the new airport.

2021

Bahrain approves first phase of 109km metro project.

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History

Celebrating Bahrain’s

50th

National Day Commonly referred to as the “Pearl of the Gulf,” Bahrain commemorated over 6,000 years of history.

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Bahrain usually celebrates the occasion with an array of cultural events that includes art, music and historical heritage.

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History

National Day celebrations, December 1975

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History

National Day celebration, recent years

Photo by: Dr Khalid Khan

Photo by: Leanne Marshall

Photo by: Rey Mark Esteban

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Photo by: Sanal Raghundhanan

Photo by: Mohammed Usama

Photo by: Rajesh AK

A MAGICAL WINTER WONDERLAND Let the festive celebrations unfold with a range of exciting events at Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. Share the joy of the holidays with family and friends with experiences ranging from special desserts crafted for National Day, to a black and gold themed New Year’s Eve island party.

Revel in a host of magical moments with Four Seasons flair.

Celebrate with us (973) 1711 5000 | fourseasons.com/bahrain

Landmarks in Bahrain

Bahrain Architecture Bahrain’s architecture is comparable to its culture – vibrant, contemporary, and cuttingedge. Here is a look at some of the Kingdom’s most significant architectural sites.

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Landmarks in Bahrain

BAHRAIN WORLD TRADE CENTER Bahrain World Trade Center (BWTC), inspired by traditional Arabian wind towers, is considered an iconic landmark in Bahrain.

With the introduction of wind turbines technology to its infrastructure, BWTC has become a global establishment for sustainable architecture and has set a new precedent for future developments.

The BWTC, considered to be Bahrain’s first ‘Intelligent Building’, stands as a symbolic regional icon; its ‘SMART’ design offers a sophisticated atmosphere with astonishing views, high-speed panoramic elevators, and stunning interiors, making it extremely popular amongst prominent local and international businesses.

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Landmarks in Bahrain BAHRAIN FORT The Bahrain Fort (Qal’at al-Bahrain), previously known as Portugal Port dates back to the 16th century. It was used for residential, public, religious, military, and commercial purposes and was located at the capital of the Dilmun civilization. It is one of the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bahrain.

The fort today is very well preserved and has been open for visitors since 2008 to explore and appreciate its ancient historic features.

ARAD FORT The Arad Fort (Qal'at 'Arad) is one of Bahrain’s oldest archaeological sites built during the 15th century using traditional Islamic building techniques like palm trees and coral limestone. It served as a defensive fortress throughout history.

The fort’s compact structure is typical of Omani military architecture during the 15th-16th century. The square shaped fort has four cylindrical lookout towers on each corner with passages that connect them together. It also has a trench which was filled with water from two wells. Above the 12m mound is a Portuguese fort, giving the site its name (qal’a).

Today, the Arad Fort is one of the most historically valuable landmarks in Bahrain and is open to the public. It is one of the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Bahrain and serves as host to some seasonal festivals.

RIFFA FORT The Riffa Fort or Sheikh Salman bin Ahmed Al-Fateh Fort, was built in 1812 primarily for military and defense purposes. It later became a residential complex for the royals and was the birth place of Shaikh Isa bin Ali, who ruled Bahrain from 1869 to 1932.

The fort contains a large façade, a garrison amid the chambers, a well, and a mosque.

Today, it houses the Saffron Café overlooking the Al-Haniniya Valley and is open for visitors.

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Landmarks in Bahrain AL FATEH GRAND MOSQUE The Al-Fateh Grand Mosque is the largest place of worship in Bahrain, with the capacity to accommodate over 7,000 worshippers. It was built in 1987 by the late Shaikh Isa bin Salman and named after Ahmed Al-Fateh (Ahmed the Conqueror), Bahrain’s first hakim or monarch.

The dome built atop the mosque is currently the largest fiberglass dome in the world, weighing over 60 tons. Its Islamic library holds around 7,000 books – including copies of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (books of Hadith), which have been printed over 100 years ago.

AL-KHAMIS MOSQUE The Al-Khamis Mosque (Masjid Al-Hamis), popular today for its twin minarets, is considered one of the oldest mosques in the Arab world.

Built around 692 AD, the mosque is believed to be the first mosque in Bahrain.

AL-SAKHIR PALACE The Al-Sakhir Palace is a palace in the Sakhir desert built in 1901. It is one of the most eminent buildings in the Kingdom and was once home to Shaikh Hamad bin Isa, Ruler of Bahrain, in 1925. It was built in the traditional Islamic fashion, consisting of grand arches and columns, a dome, and an imposing minaret towering above.

Today, the palace is used for some of the most honorable and significant occasions in Bahrain.

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Landmarks in Bahrain SIYADI HOUSE The Siyadi House (Bayt Siyadi) is part of the Siyadi complex along with the Siyadi Majlis and Siyadi Mosque – created by one of Bahrain’s leading grand pearl merchant families. It is also part of the Bahrain pearling trail, one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the Kingdom.

Today, the House which date back to 1931, illustrates the immense wealth of a grand pearling merchant and is still occupied by the builder’s grandson.

ISA BIN ALI HOUSE Once home to Shaikh Isa bin Ali, the longest ruler of Bahrain from 1869-1932, the Isa bin Ali House is one of the best-preserved examples of local architecture before the discovery of oil.

The house has a simple architectural design, built with materials such as coral stones, mud, gypsum, date-palm trees, and lime. It has multiple staircases, intricate archways, and courtyards – giving a glimpse into the life of a royal in Bahrain in the 19th century. The building is divided into four sections, with separate areas for the shaikh, family, guests, and servants.

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Landmarks in Bahrain KING FAHD CAUSEWAY The King Fahd Causeway connects Bahrain to Saudi in a series of bridges and causeways. The four-lane road is 25km long and 23.3 meters wide.

Established in 1986, the causeway made of concrete and reinforced steel, was constructed in three segments: From Al-Aziziyyah, south of Khobar, to the Border Station on Passport Island; from the Border Station to Nasan Island in Bahrain; and from Nasan island to Al-Jasra, Northern Governorate.

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History

InterContinental Regency Bahrain

I

nterContinental Regency Bahrain celebratesover fourdecades of establishment in the Kingdom. The InterContinental brand was born in America in 1946 and the InterContinental Regency Bahrain was one of the key hotels in their international expansion.

Construction ground breaking

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Since the start of its operations in November 1980, InterContinental Regency Bahrain continues to establish itself as the hotel of choice for many travellers. The hotel currently has a total of 304 rooms, with luxurious ballrooms, facilities and restaurants that have hosted various events, as well as local and international conferences. It brings alive the rich culture and heritage of different countries, through the authentic experiences that they provide their clients with, in every aspect. n

History

Crowne Plaza Bahrain

C

rowne Plaza Bahrain is one of the earliest business hotels on the island which was built on 1979. The hotel was previously a Holliday Inn and surely is packed with a rich heritage and history.

Crowne Plaza is perfectly situated in the heart of the Diplomatic Area, close to business and banking district and the Avenues mall and just a 15-minute ride from the Bahrain International Airport. The hotelfeatures recently refurbished rooms that are smart and contemporary; making it one of the most flexible and unique destinations in Bahrain for both business and leisure. n

Old Crowne Plaza

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Old Bahrain

The Old Bahrain

Bahrain International Airport in December 1975

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Old Bahrain

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Bahrain National Day

HM the King in the 1960's

HM the King became Crown Prince on June 27, 1964.

HM the King's graduation from UK Military Officers College. September 14, 1967

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Old Bahrain

Late Amir of Bahrain HH Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa, HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa

Bahrain vs Brazil national teams in football match, Isa Town Stadium, February 1976

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HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa

Old Bahrain

Government Avenue and BMMI offices in the 1950s

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Old Bahrain

Fishing equipment, 1960s

Muharraq Fish Market, 1973

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Muharraq Market, 1968

Old Bahrain

Royal Bahrain Golf Club, 1972

Shipbuilding craftsmanship, July 1975

Riffa vs. Al Hala teams in clubs football match, December 1975

A British India Navigation Company (BI) steamship at anchorage Manama port in the 1950s

Bahrain International Airport in December 1975

Launches first school bus, 'mobile nursery home' in 1979.

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Old Bahrain

French Jeweller, M Cartier, with pearl merchants in Bahrain

YBA Kanoo's first office in Bahrain

Dadabhai Travel

YK Almoayyed

Government Avenue in the 1940s

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History of Banking

Bahrain’s Banking Sector

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According to the Central Bank of Bahrain, there is a total of 376 financial sector institutions in the country as of the end of September 2020.

The then Finance Minister Ibrahim Abdulkarim opens National & Grindlays Bank, November 1973 40 50 Years of Celebration

History of Banking A Brief History

1920

The first bank in Bahrain, Eastern Bank Limited (Standard Chartered Bank) was granted a license in 1918. On July 3, 1920, the bank’s premises officially opened.

1944

The British Bank of the Middle East (HSBC) opened a branch.

1957

The first bank wholly owned by Bahrainis, Bank of Bahrain, was opened.

1959

The use of Gulf rupee instead of the Indian rupee started.

1960

Arab Bank Limited opened a branch.

Bahrain Islamic Bank

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he banking sector has great importance in the Kingdom for in addition to its historical depth which goes back as early as before the 1920’s of last century, the sector represents one of the pillars of Bahrain’s strategy to diversify sources of revenues and broaden the scope of economic activities.

Bahrain’s banking system consists of both conventional and Islamic banks and is the largest component of the financial system, accounting for over 85% of total financial assets.

According to the Central Bank of Bahrain, there is a total of 376 financial sector institutions in the country as of the end of September 2020. This includes 31 retail banks, 62 wholesale banks, 17 branches of foreign banks and 8 representative offices of banks. These also include 34 insurance companies, 53 investment business firms and 86 specialized licensees.

Bahrain’s banking system consists of both conventional and Islamic banks and is the largest component of the financial system.

Bahraini dinar issued to replace rupees in East Bank Ltd and British Bank, 1965

1964 The Bahrain Currency Board was established.

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History of Banking

1965 The Bahrain Currency Boardissued a new family of Bahraini Dinar banknotes and coins on October 7, 1965.The new banknotes and coins, which replaced the Gulf Rupee, contained the following note denominations: BD10, BD5, BD1, BD1/2 and BD1/4 with coin denominations as follows, 100fils, 50 fils, 25 fils, 10 fils, 5 fils and 1 fil.

One Gulf rupee, similar to the regular One Indian rupee note issued in India, but printed in red and containing a _Z_ letter prefix in the serial number

1969

United Bank Limited of Pakistan began its operations on February 1969. Rafidain Bank as well as the Citibank also opened.

1971

BBK, formerly known as The Bank of Bahrain and Kuwait B.S.C, was established on 16th March 1971. In 1972, they began their operations.

1975

The Paribas Bank opened a branch.

The Gulf International Bank was also established in 1975 and commenced its operations in 1976.

1977

The National Bank of Kuwait started operating.

1978

The Bahrain Islamic Bank was established.

1987

The Bahrain Institute for Banking and Financial Studies opened.

Bahrain's first bank,The Eastern Bank Ltd opened in 1920 The British Bank of the Middle East

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History of Banking 2019 The Gulf International Bank (MEM) was granted a new license for digital banking. Arab Banking Corporation (ila) was also granted the same.

2009

Ahli United Bank (Kuwait) bought Ahli Commercial Bank (Bahrain) and named the bank as Ahli United Bank.

2006

The Mumtakalat Holding Company was established as the sovereign wealth fund of the government.

2003

Al Salam Bank opened.On the same year, Shamil Bank purchased all the assets and liabilities of FIBEC. Immediately following this purchase, Shamil Bank sold the entire share capital of FIBEC to DMI and the name of FIBEC was changed to Ithmaar Bank.

2002

The Supreme Council of Islamic Banks was established.

2001

Kuwait Finance House opened.

2000

The Economic Development Board was established.

National Bank of Bahrain, 1973

The ATM service was provided by the British Bank of the Middle East.

1989

In March 1993 new security features were added to the Bahraini Dinar to develop the currency and protect it from the counterfeit processes.

With that, a new family of banknotes were issued BD20, BD10, BD5, BD1 and BD1/2 along with the coins, 100fils, 50 fils, 25 fils, 10 fils and 5 fils.

1993

History of nbb BC l GI

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History

Ithmaar Bank: Pioneering Islamic Banking

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The Bank’s history dates back to 1982 with the incorporation of the Sharia-governed Faysal Islamic Bank of Bahrain (FIBB).

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History time, most banks were investing and managing their liquidity through placements with conventional banks. Similarly, the Bank innovated cross-border syndicated facilities in the mid 1990’s, for the use of both Islamic and conventional banks, to service international transactions. This was a pioneering move that helped shape the industry at the time.

Moreover, the Bank was able to structure various financial products compliant with Islamic Sharia precepts, including a number of investment funds, that were introduced to the market, leading to widespread acceptance.

The Bank was also instrumental in laying the foundation stone for the Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions(AAOIFI) in 1991. Based in Bahrain, AAOIFI is the leading international not-for-profit organization primarily

I

thmaar Bank, a Bahrain-based Islamic retail bank, has played a pioneering role in the establishment and subsequent development of Islamic banking in the region. The Bank’s history dates back to 1982 with the incorporation of the Sharia-governed Faysal Islamic Bank of Bahrain (FIBB), the predecessor of Shamil Bank and later Ithmaar Bank. In the early 1980’s, the formalised infrastructure for Islamic banking in Bahrain was virtually non-existent and, as a result, the growing footprint of FIBB had a great significance on the banking and financial services industry.

Ithmaar Bank, historically as FIBB then Shamil Bank, pioneered and innovated many products and transactions that served as the foundation for Islamic banking in Bahrain and in the region.

Among the many Sharia-compliant financial instruments they put forth, for example, was one for managing liquidity. At the

responsible for development and issuance of standards for the global Islamic finance industry.

The Bank continues to contribute to helping reinforce the Kingdom of Bahrain’s already prominent position as a key banking and financial hub in the region by ensuring it remains at the cutting edge of technology. This was most recently demonstrated with thecommissioning of two new full-service, digitally-focused branches at the end of 2021.

On the other hand, Ithmaar Bank’s role has always been about a lot more than simple philanthropy and, in addition to the financial support it provides through donations and sponsorships, the Bank also contributes directly to the community. n

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Aviation History

History of Aviation

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The first scheduled commercial flight only arrived in Bahrain in 1932, carrying 24 passengers.

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stablished in 1927, Bahrain’s international airport is the oldest international airport in the Gulf. The history of the Kingdom’s airport dates back to when a chartered flight landed 94 years ago. However, the first scheduled commercial flight only arrived in Bahrain in 1932, carrying 24 passengers.

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Aviation History

1927

1963

Formerly known as Imperial Airways, the first British Airways arrived in Bahrain when a local pearl merchant chartered an aircraft from Baghdad, Iraq.

1932

Gulf Aviation Company, now known as Gulf Air, was formed during this time.

1970

Air India, British Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Qantas all began to use Bahrain’s international airport as a major transit stop with their B747 aircraft.

The first commercial aircraft heading to Delhi arrived from London. This made Bahrain the first GCC country to operate a commercial international airport.

1937

1976

“Bahrein Marine Airport”, a passenger terminal was established to accommodate the rise of commercial aircrafts.

1950

British Airways Concorde service between London and Bahrain commences.

1980

Weekly flights to Karachi, Singapore and Hong Kong commence along with flights to Sydney three times a week.

As a prelude to the major expansion and refurbishment program, an expansion of the airport’s facilities took place.

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Aviation History

1994

Bahrain’s new $100 million terminal was inaugurated. The handling capacity was also expanded to accommodate 10 million passengers per year.

2008

The Bahrain Airport Company was established.

2021

The $1.1 billion state-of-the-art terminal was launched. n

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Photo credits: Bahrain Airport’s website

Aviation History

Bahrain International Airport in December 1975

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Aviation History

Photo credits: Gulf Air 50 50 Years of Celebration

Adamas Bahrain Motor Company extends a heartfelt and warm congratulations to

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa The Crown Prince and Prime Minister and to all of the Kingdom of Bahrain on it's

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BAHRAIN NATIONAL DAY

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History of Oil and Gas

History of

Oil & Gas in Bahrain Oil was first discovered in Bahrain on 2 June 1932, making it the first country in the Arabian Gulf to discover oil.

First Oil Well

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By the end of 2022, Bahrain is due to start drilling for the first production wells in its new offshore shale oilfield, Khaleej Al-Bahrain.

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oday, oil and gas accounts for about 60% of Bahraini exports and 70% of government revenues. By the end of 2022, Bahrain is due to start drilling for the first production wells in its new offshore shale oilfield, Khaleej AlBahrain. But where did all of this begin?

Bahrain signed its first concession to explore oil and minerals, awarded to geologist Maj. Frank Holmes, known as “Abu Naft” (Father of Oil) in the early 1920s in exchange for drilling water wells.After over a year of thorough mapping, he found freshwater and was rewarded with an official concession for oil exploration in 1925 by the late Shaikh Hamad bin Isa, Ruler of Bahrain.

In 1929, the Standard Oil of CA (SOCAL) established Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco), which today has grown to be a powerful organization that plays a key role in Bahrain’s industrial force development.

Not long after, in 1932, the first oil well, Well #1, was discovered below Jebel AlDukhan. Oil first spurted from the well on 16 October 1931. On the morning of 2 June 1932, the well began to blow heads of oil, making Bahrain the first country in the Gulf to discover oil.

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History of Oil and Gas Here’s a timeline of the significant events that took place in Bahrain’s oil and gas industry:

1925 – The first concession for oil exploration was awarded to Maj. Frank Holmes “Abu Naft”.

1929 – Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco) was established by the Standard Oil of CA (SOCAL).

1932 – The first oil well (Well #1) in Bahrain was discovered below Jebel Dukhan.

1932 – Oil was produced in commercial quantities.

1934 – First crude oil export was made from Bahrain to Japan by the El Segundo ship.

Bahrain's first Oilfield, 1932

1937 – The Bahrain Refinery was officially opened by HH the late Shaikh Hamad bin Isa.

1941 – The Bahrain Petroleum Company Refinery was attacked Bapco Refinery

by Italian forces during World War II.

1945 - The A-B Pipeline was laid between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to refine Saudi oil.

1948 – Bapco discovered a large natural gas reserve – making it the first company in the region to discover Khuff Gas.

1959 – The first natural gas operated power plant was opened in Juffair.

1966 – The joint field between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, Abu Sa’afa, was opened.

1968 – The Bahrain Refinery Expansion Programme was completed with a capacity of 250,000 barrels per day.

1976 – The Bahrain National Oil Company (BANOCO) was formed.

1979 – The incorporation of Bahrain National Gas (BANAGAS).

1979 – The establishment of the Gulf Petrochemical Industries Company (GPIC).

1980 – The establishment of Supreme Council for Oil. 1992 – The Oil Museum ‘Dar Al Naft’ was inaugurated to mark the 60th anniversary of oil discovery in Bahrain.

1997 – Bapco became fully owned by Bahrain’s government.

1999 – Bapco and BANOCO merged together.

2000 – Petroleum products inline-blending began and unleaded gasoline was introduced to the local markets.

2009 – Oil was produced from the Abu Sa’afa marine field.

2010 – The Tatweer Petroleum Company was formed and given the stewardship and redevelopment of the Bahrain Field.

2011 – The first shipment of Group III Very High Viscosity Index Lubricant Base Oils was made.

2016 – Tatweer Petroleum Company became fully owned by Bahrain’s government.

Photo Credits - Bapco

2018 – A-B pipeline was inaugurated.

2018 – Discovery of Shale Oil with at least 80 billion barrels of crude oil. n

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Motorsports

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Racing History

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he Kingdom of Bahrain first opened its famous Bahrain International Circuit in March 2004. It boasts a capacity of 70,000 visitors and multiple track layouts such as the main grand prix circuit, the outer circuit, the endurance circuit, the paddock circuit, the oasis/inner circuit, the oval circuit and the drag strip. The entire facility took less than 18 months to build – quite a feat considering the massive undertaking that was needed to develop the land.

Being the first circuit in the GCC to introduce Formula 1, it hosted its first grand prix the same year that it opened on April 4th, boasting an FIA Grade 1 license which is highest possible grade and the only type of track suitable for F1 races, as they are the fastest, most prestigious vehicles in the world. At a construction and logistical cost of 56.2 million dinars (150 million dollars) the 5.412km track of 15 turns became the benchmark for international motorsports in the Middle East.

The circuit is owned by Mumtalakat, the Bahraini investment fund of real estate and tourism.

Motorsports

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Home of Motorsports in the Middle East Trademarked as the “Home of Motorsports in the Middle East” the deserving title holds up several historical races and high-profile drivers in its track records. The main races that take place on track are FIA Formula One World Championship, the FIA World Endurance Championship, the FIA Formula 2 Championship, Porsche Sprint Challenge, BIC 2000cc Challenge, Bahrain Drag Racing Championship, Gulf 12 Hours, and in 2022 will introduce the first ever Bahrain Pro-Am 1000.

In the past, a number of exclusive races were held such as the Desert 400, the FIA GT Championship, the first ever Formula BMW World Final, Speedcar Series, GP2 Asia Series, and a oneoff Bahrain Superprix involving Formula Three cars. BIC also hosts leisurely open track days and drag and drift nights for people who would like to race with their own cars, involving the entire country in the freedom that motorsport can bring on the state-ofthe-art track.

Some notable records on the BIC tracks are as follows: The track record on the main layout is held by Lewis Hamilton in the W11 Mercedes in 2020 with a 1:27.264 during qualifying. The outer layout is an exciting and fast drive as observed in the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, where George Russell standing in for the famous Lewis Hamilton in the Mercedes took the lap record with an impressive time of 0:55.404. The edurance lap record is held by Alpine Elf Matmut driver of #36 Nicolas Lapierre with 1:48.875 on the timesheets.

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Motorsports

The Kingdom of Bahrain first opened its famous Bahrain International Circuit in March 2004.

Motorsports

The Crown Prince of Bahrain, who is a significant fan of motorsports pushed for the construction of the circuit and was the Honorary President of the Bahrain Motor Federation (BMF), which is the governing body that employs all the manpower and policies of the circuit to date.

The Bahrain Motor Federation is indeed an essential part of the circuit’s success as they handle the safety marshals, scrutineers, stewards and race directors who cover BIC races as well as circuits and racetracks in other countries such as Saudi Arabia, India, UAE, Azerbaijan. BMF grants licenses to racetrack officials and hosts volunteers to assist in the success of the races, and this is another key factor as to why Bahrain is internationally recognized as the hub of all things motorsports in its region.

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Motorsports

Racing to Greater Heights In 2020, the BMF received an award from FIA President Jean Todt for the impeccable organization of volunteers and officials at the two grand prix that took place that year, along with special awards to the marshals and firefighters who helped rescue Romain Grosjean from the frightening and fiery crash the French driver suffered which is the most dramatic crash Bahrain International Circuit has seen to date.

The incredible mission that saved the driver was conquered by seven local marshals, doctors and firefighters: Abdulla Ahmed Qambar, Osama Al Sherooqi, Mehab Medhat Fawzi, Ahmed Abdulla Mohammed, Ahmed Saeed Mohamed, Atif Turkey Alanbar, Dr Yasir Yar Muhammad and firefighters Joby Matthew and Thaer Ali Taher. They were honoured with commemorative medals for their courage and exceptional reaction to the accident.

Bahrain International Karting Circuit is BIC’s sister circuit for karting, which is the baseline of single seater motorsports and opened in 2011. It is a world-class karting venue consisting of more than 10 different track configurations and is the first venue to be able to host international events at night because of the advanced floodlight system in place. It is permitted to host a number of world championship events under the Commission Internationale de Karting-Federation International de l’Automobile (CIK-FIA).

The circuit has been designed to the highest international standards allowing it to host world championship events, one namely the Rotax Max Challenge, where in December 2021 it

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hosts over 400 karting participants and the very first e-karting event. Teams such as Praga, BirelArt, and Forza Bahrain allow Bahraini youth to apply their talents in Motorsport and make an international career out of it, from mechanics to team managers to racers. It is also open to the public for their own mini grand prix with friends or just for amateurs to test out their racing skills.

Overall, we have seen motorsports grow immensely since 2004, and Bahrain is now known worldwide for its amazing motorsports infrastructure and organization. The home of motorsports in the Middle East truly deserves to be brandished with such a title for all its developments in this sector, which has brought economic and global interest onto the island. n

Telecoms History

Telecommunications in Bahrain

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efore 1981, telecommunications services were provided by two separate departments: national services were provided by the Bahrain Telephone Company and international services by Cable & Wireless of the United Kingdom. These were combined in 1981 to form Batelco. Since then, other telecommunications companies have entered the market.

In 2002, Bahrain implemented its telecommunications law which included the establishment of an independent Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA). Ever since its inception, TRA’s focused on liberalizing and developing the telecoms sector by promoting an effective and fair competition between established operators and new entrants while protecting the interest of consumers. n

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Telecoms History

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Education History

History of Education

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uranic Schools, or Kuttab, were the only form of education in Bahrain during the beginning of this century. These are schools based on the teachings of the Holy Quran, the youth would be taught to read and understand the scriptures.

Parents who could afford to fund their children's studies often sent them to schools in Bombay or Baghdad. Families of a predominately religious background often sent their children to religious institutions in the region, to madrasas in Mecca and Al-Hasa in mainland Arabia for Sunni students and to Najaf and Karbala for Shia students.

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Education History After the First World War, Bahrain became more open to influence from the western world. The people felt that the Quranic Schools did not fulfill the academic needs of the youth, and thus the future of Bahrain, for a rapidly evolving world. The war has also brought political and social changes within the country, causing the rise of social and cultural awareness among the people.

A demand for modern educational institutions was asked.

Prominent citizens discussed and agreed to establish a modern formal school, in terms of system, curricula, and objectives.

The Bahrain royal family also endorsed and sponsored the establishment of these institutions.

The year 1919 marked the beginning of modern public-school system in Bahrain, the first nation in the GCC to do so. Al Hidaya

Al Khalifia School for boys was opened at Muharraq. The first Committee of Education consisted of several leading merchants and was presided over by the late Shaikh Abdulla bin Isa AlKhalifa who was popularly known as 'the Minister of Education'.

He was also responsible for the management of Al Hidaya School.

In 1926, the Education Committee opened the second public school for boys at Manama followed by the first public school for girls at Muharraq in 1928. Both schools came under the direct control of the government in 1930.

Today, Bahrain is proud of its public schools, where resident and expatriate students enjoy free education. As per the figures published by UNESCO in 2015, Bahrain’s literacy rate was a staggering 99.77%. The government continues to improve the education system and is expanding its student population, aiming to attract students from the GCC and the world.

FIRST PUBLIC SCHOOL

Founded in 1919 in the northern part of the city of Muharraq, Al Hidaya Al Khalifia is the first modern school in Bahrain, and is considered a significant milestone of modern education in the Kingdom. The building was restored to host a permanent display dedicated to documenting the history of education in the Kingdom.

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Education History PRIVATE SCHOOLS

American Mission School With donations from churches from the Reformed Church in America in the US, a church and school building were built in 1902. Every day, 10-15 students attended to learn reading, writing and arithmetic. In the afternoons, trade crafts were taught by American staff and Bahraini members of the community. The school continued to grow over the years, eventually becoming an all-girls school. In the 1930s, there was a demand to begin a formal boys’ section in the school. Eventually, the school became known as the American Mission School.

The Indian School The Indian School was founded in 1950. The school commenced its journey with a Head Mistress and three staff members.

Currently, it is one of the largest co-ed schools in Bahrain.

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Education History

St. Christopher’s School St. Christopher’s School started in a villa in 1961 to provide a British education for small groups of expatriate children.

The school was established with 39 pupils in the hall at the Church compound.

British School of Bahrain The British School of Bahrain was established in Adliya in 1995 to provide British education within Bahrain. It was founded as a school with a family feel that supported individual students through pastoral care.

The school has evolved from its humble beginnings as a villa school in Adliya and transformed considerably into one of the most sought-after schools in Bahrain now serving over 2800 students from over 90 nationalities in its Hamala campus.

Establishment of higher education institutions Until 1968, there was no institution of tertiary education in the Kingdom and Bahraini students had to travel abroad in order to pursue their higher education aspirations. Bahrain experienced two waves of development of tertiary education institutions.

According to the Higher Education Council, the first wave started in the late 1960s and culminated in 1984 with the opening of the University of Bahrain (UoB). This period was marked by the establishment of public institutions of higher learning such as the Teachers College in 1966, Gulf Technical College (renamed later as Bahrain Polytechnic) in 1968, the College of Health Sciences in 1976, the College of Arts, Science and Education and the Arabian Gulf University in 1979. UoB was created by the merger of the Bahrain Polytechnic and the College of Arts, Science and Education. n

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Education History

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Healthcare History

History of Healthcare in Bahrain

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lthough Bahrain has a universal health care system dating back to 1960, the first healthcare clinic in the Kingdom was opened by missionary Reverend Samuel Zwemer and his wife Amy Wilkes, a missionary nurse, in the 1890’s.

They first opened a small dispensary which later became a oneroom clinic just downstairs their home in Manama Souq. They diagnosed illnesses, dispensed medication, extracted teeth, and performed minor surgeries.

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As the number of people needing medical attention grew, they realized that their basic skills in surgery and nursing were not enough, leading Zwemer to start requesting for physicians through the Reformed Church in the US. Subsequently, two doctors landed in Bahrain and built what we today know as the American Mission Hospital (AMH).

When the facility first open in 1903, it was named Mason Memorial Hospital. It began attracting patients from all over the Gulf, like Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar. It was the first,

Healthcare History

In 1927, Marion Thoms Memorial Hospital for Women and Children was opened, providing care for women, soon-to-be mothers, and their children. This was where Fatima Al Zayani, Bahrain’s first nurse, gained exposure to patient care. Today, the building houses AMH’s obstetrics and gynecology clinic and the Zwemer clinic.

Bahrain’s first public hospital The first public hospital and first tertiary hospital in Bahrain is the Salmaniya Medical Complex (SMC).

Established in 1957, SMC was opened with a total capacity of 50 beds. Today, it has a total capacity of approximately 1,200 beds and is the largest tertiary hospital in the Kingdom. It provides secondary, tertiary, and emergency medical services and specialized outpatient clinics. The complex holds the country’s main morgue.

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if not only healthcare facility in Bahrain until formal government facilities opened in the 1940s.

They first opened a small dispensary which later became a one-room clinic just downstairs their home in Manama Souq.

Bahrain’s first psychiatric hospital Opened in 1932, the Psychiatric Hospital is the only public psychiatric hospital in Bahrain to date. It came as British advisor to Bahrain’s hakim, Charles Belgrave, proposed the establishment of an asylum for the safekeeping of locals in need of psychiatric care.

Today, the Psychiatric Hospital located in SMC handles an average of 1,195 k inpatient admissions and 20,000 outpatients per year.

Two specialised outpatient clinics were established for anxiety and intellectual disabilities. Psychiatric services have also been incorporated within the primary care sector, allowing family physicians to prescribe psychiatric medications – the first such initiative in the Arab world.

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Healthcare History

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Healthcare History

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BDF-RMS has expanded and become the second largest hospital in Bahrain with 481 beds.

Bahrain Defence Force Hospital Royal Medical Services One of the 3 major hospitals, the Bahrain Defence Force – Royal Medical Services (BDF-RMS), is the only hospital providing free health care exclusively for non-civilians in the Kingdom. It commenced as a small clinic in 1968 and grew into a 120-bed hospital in 1979.

Today, BDF-RMS has expanded and become the second largest hospital in Bahrain with 481 beds. Its three major components consist of the Military Hospital, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Khalifa Al-Khalifa Cardiac Center and the Field Military Battalion.

The Hospital’s health system offers the region's largest network of primary care physicians, outpatient centre and hospital. It also includes a network of specialty care physicians, skilled nursing, elder health, behavioural health, rehabilitation and home care services, managed care and insurance programmes and occupational health and wellness.

Bahrain Ministry of Health The Ministry of Health is responsible for the preventive and curative health services in the Kingdom through a network of primary, secondary, and tertiary health care facilities. The technical and financial responsibility of this lies mainly with the Ministry, in coordination with other Ministries, the private sector, and community.

In partnership with the stakeholders, the Ministry leads the health system to ensure high-quality services. It plays a significant role in policy making and promoting health. It ensures the efficient and effective use of all resources for a high-standard evidence-based care for all.

National Health Regulatory Authority In 2010, the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA) was established with a mission to regulate the provision of healthcare in the Kingdom and ensure efficiency, appropriateness, continuity, and safety in delivering health services in the public and private sectors.

NHRA is responsible for regulatory procedures related to licensing healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, medical centres, and pharmaceutical centres. It is responsible for the licensing of health care professionals.

NHRA is responsible for the registration and pricing of medicine, granting approvals for clinical trials, investigating professional misconduct claims, and conducting disciplinary hearings for health professionals in Bahrain. n

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Then and Now

Then and Now A glimpse of Bahrain’s development over the decades…

American Mission Hospital in 1900

American Mission Hospital in the 1960s

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Then and Now

Bab al Bahrain in 1950

Manama Souk mid-1950

Bahrain Airport in 1950

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Then and Now

Bahrain’s old transport vehicle

The Gulf Hotel in the 1970s

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Then and Now

Muharraq Vegetable Market, 1973

Bab Al Bahrain Police Station, 1950

Al Jasra area, 1963

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Greetings

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Bahrain National Day

Greetings from Our Friends and Partners AlJuffairy Dental Center AlJuffairy Dental Center sends its best wishes to all the royal family members, leaders, citizens and residents of the Kingdom on the occasion of Bahrain’s 50th National Day.

American School of Bahrain The American School of Bahrain (ASB) wishes everyone a happy 50th National Day! 50 years of accomplishments, pride, and unity!

American University of Bahrain On behalf of the American University of Bahrain’s (AUBH) faculty, staff and students, I would like to wish the Kingdom of Bahrain a Happy 50th National Day! I am confident that this strong nation will continue to thrive, executing on a myriad of impactful initiatives under its visionary leadership.

Dr. Susan E. Saxton, AUBH Founding President

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Greetings Back on the Move

Elite Hospitality Group

Wishing more glory and joy for the Kingdom of Bahrain on the occasion of its 50th National Day!

On the auspicious occasion of Bahrain’s 50th National Day, Elite Hospitality Group would like to wish His Majesty the King, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain prosperity and good health for many years to come.

Bahrain Maritime & Mercantile International(BMMI)

Floward

As the Kingdom of Bahrain celebrates its 50th National Day, the Bahrain Maritime & Mercantile International (BMMI) Group’s Board of Directors, management and team would like to congratulate the wise leadership of the Kingdom of Bahrain and the Bahraini community on this milestone.

Floward wishes the leaders and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain a Happy National Day. We hope all their years be filled with flowers and success!

British School of Bahrain

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay

The British School of Bahrain (BSB) is honoured to congratulate HM King Hamad and HRH Prince Salman, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the Kingdom of Bahrain’s 50th National Day. Over the past 50 years of the Kingdom’s illustrious history, Bahrain has cemented its position as a pioneer in the region boasting both the oldest financial centre and public education system in the region.

BSB is proud of its roots in the Kingdom and looks forward to being a part of its continued growth and prosperity under their wise leadership.

Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay sends its best wishes to all leaders, citizens, and residents of the Kingdom on the occasion of Bahrain’s 50th National Day.

Dadabhai Group The Dadabhai Group would like to congratulate the leadership on the momentous occasion of the Kingdom of Bahrain’s 50th anniversary. The Kingdom has continued to nurture an environment that is competitive, dynamic, and well equipped to support new initiatives, position itself as extremely business friendly which has contributed to the enhancement of our development as a group, and advance the nation for the betterment of its citizens and visitors.

Gulf Air Happy 50th National Day to our beloved Kingdom, its Leadership and people! We are proud to be the national carrier and carry the flag of Bahrain high into the skies across the world.

Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj The entire Gulf Suites Hotel Amwaj team wishes a Happy 50th National Day to all Bahraini citizens and residents!

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Greetings Ithmaar Bank

Wyndham Grand Manama

The Chairman and Members of the Board of Directors, the executive management and all employees of Ithmaar Bank wish HM King Hamad, HRH Prince Salman, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the government, and the people of the Kingdom of Bahrain continued peace and prosperity on the occasion of the 50th National Day.

The Wyndham Grand Manama family extends their best wishes & heartfelt greeting to the rulers, citizens & residents of Bahrain on the occasion of the 50th Bahrain National Day.

Movenpick Hotel Bahrain Mövenpick Hotel Bahrain extends its deepest congratulations to the wise leadership of Kingdom of Bahrain and its loyal people on the occasion of Bahrain's 50th National Day. May prosperity and pride continue to reign in our Kingdom as we celebrate the National Day.

National Bank of Bahrain NBB extends its warmest congratulations and best wishes to the Bahraini government and people on the occasion of its 50th National Day. May we continue to prosper and progress under the visionary leadership of HM King Hamad and HRH Prince Salman, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.

Yusuf Bin Ahmed Kanoo Group We are proud to celebrate the 50th National Day of our beloved Kingdom of Bahrain and congratulate HM King Hamad and HRH Prince Salman, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and the people and residents of the Kingdom of Bahrain on this occasion.

As a group that operates its vast network of businesses for more than 130 years from Bahrain, we have been working and enjoying the freedom and strong legislations and groundbreaking technology available to run our business successfully throughout the years with immense support from the various government entities and skilled workforce.

YK Almoayyed & Sons Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons wishes the beloved Kingdom of Bahrain a happy 50th National Day with continued progress and prosperity for its people and leadership n

Rotana Hotels Downtown Rotana and Majestic Arjaan by Rotana Hotels extend their warm congratulations to HM King Hamad, the leaders, and people of the Kingdom of Bahrain on the happy occasion of National Day Brunch at Baharat - Bahrain Bahrain’s 50th National Day.Confidential Half Page

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Our team at The Westin & Le Méridien City Centre Bahrain wishes you a Happy 50th National Day!

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Submissions

Photo by: Claudia Richert

Photo by: Fahaq Quadri

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Submissions

Photo by: Pearl Padron

Photo by: Rizky Aditya Pratama

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Submissions Photo by: Mohammed Usama

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Submissions

Kanoo main building in Bahrain, the first in the Gulf with all-steed structure (British Steel), opened in 1960 by the Ruler, Shaikh Salman bin Hamed Al Khalifa

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Submissions

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On behalf of the Chairman and members of the Board of Directors, the Executive Management team and all Ithmaar Bank employees, we extend our best wishes to

HM King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa the King of the Kingdom of Bahrain

HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa the Crown Prince & Prime Minister the Royal Family, Government & the people of Bahrain on the occasion of our Kingdom’s

50th National Day