- Bahrain achieved a remarkable FDI milestone in 2023, attracting $6.8 billion, up 148% from 2022, signaling robust investor confidence.
- Bahrain’s FDI-to-GDP ratio reached 99.7%, significantly surpassing the global average, driven by key contributors such as Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
- The government’s progressive regulatory frameworks and strategic economic plans have enhanced Bahrain’s attractiveness, fostering a conducive investment environment.
- Economic diversification efforts have led to a shift where the financial services sector now outweighs the oil sector in contributing to real GDP.
- Initiatives like the Golden License have successfully attracted major investments, including projects in titanium production, banking, data centers, and tourism infrastructure.
- Bahrain’s sustained GDP growth rate of 7% annually since 2003 underscores its resilient economic trajectory and potential as a regional investment hub.
Bahrain has achieved a remarkable milestone in 2023 by attracting a record $6.8 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows, as highlighted in the latest World Investment Report (WIR 2024) by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
This achievement surpasses the previous record of $2.8 billion set in 2022, marking an impressive 148% increase.
The significant rise in FDI has bolstered Bahrain’s cumulative inward FDI stocks, which surged from $36.2 billion in 2022 to $43.1 billion in 2023.
Impressive FDI-to-GDP Ratio
Bahrain’s FDI stocks relative to its GDP stood at 99.7% by the end of 2023, which is notably higher than the global average of 46.9%.
The top contributors to Bahrain’s FDI stocks are Kuwait (36%), Saudi Arabia (23%), and the UAE (10%), according to Bahrain’s Information & eGovernment Authority.
This diverse portfolio underscores the strategic economic partnerships Bahrain has cultivated within the region.
Government Initiatives and Economic Growth
Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development and Chief Executive of Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB), emphasized that the substantial FDI inflows in 2023 reflect Bahrain’s robust value proposition.
Bahrain continues to position itself as a trusted destination for regional and global investors, offering competitive operating costs and a strategic location that serves as an ideal gateway to the broader region.
The government has played a pivotal role in enhancing Bahrain’s attractiveness as an investment hub by prioritizing the development of progressive regulatory frameworks and implementing strategic economic plans.
These efforts aim to foster economic growth and diversification, ensuring a sustainable economic future for the island nation.
Economic Diversification and Growth
Bahrain’s nominal GDP has grown from approximately $11 billion in 2003 to over $43 billion in 2023, achieving an average annual growth rate of 7%, which surpasses the global average of 5%.
This growth is not only indicative of a healthy economy but also of successful diversification efforts. The financial services sector has overtaken the oil sector as the highest contributor to real GDP, accounting for 17.8% in 2023. This shift marks a significant milestone in Bahrain’s economic landscape.
Strategic Investment Initiatives
The Golden License initiative, launched in April 2023, has been instrumental in attracting significant investments to Bahrain.
The initiative successfully secured $2.4 billion from nine major projects, creating 3,000 job opportunities. The Golden License has encouraged both regional and international investments across various sectors.
Notable Projects
Several key projects have been awarded the Golden License in 2024, reflecting Bahrain’s commitment to fostering innovation and economic development:
- Bahrain Titanium: Interlink Metals & Chemicals is set to establish the first titanium facility of its kind in the region.
- National Bank of Kuwait (NBK): The construction of NBK’s first greenfield head office outside of Kuwait.
- Beyon: The development of a data center facility and an international submarine cable.
- Bahrain Marina: A comprehensive development project aimed at enhancing Bahrain’s infrastructure and tourism appeal.
Bahrain’s record-breaking FDI inflows in 2023 underscore its strategic importance as a preferred investment destination.
The government’s proactive measures, coupled with a conducive business environment, have played a critical role in attracting substantial foreign investments.
The continued efforts to develop forward-looking regulatory frameworks and implement strategic economic plans are set to sustain Bahrain’s economic growth and diversification.
With a highly skilled, bilingual talent pool and a financially liberal environment, Bahrain remains a top choice for global investors.
The Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) continues to work strategically to attract increased investments from priority markets, ensuring the island nation’s sustained economic prosperity.
Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter for startup & business news and inspiring stories of MENA businesses, entrepreneurs, startups, innovators, investors, and change-makers.
To report any issue or error in the story, please email us editor [at] rasmal [dot] com.
