The Kingdom of Bahrain is a small island state near the western shores of the Arabian Gulf. The population in 2010 stood at 1,234,596, including 666,172 non-nationals.
Bahrain is an archipelago of 33 islands, the largest being Bahrain Island, at 55 km (34 mi) long by 18 km (11 mi) wide. Saudi Arabia lies to the west and is connected to Bahrain by the King Fahd Causeway. Qatar is to the southeast across the Gulf of Bahrain. The planned Qatar Bahrain Causeway will link Bahrain and Qatar and become the world's longest marine causeway.
Known for its oil and pearls, Bahrain is also home to the Bahrain World Trade Center and the Bahrain Financial Harbour, (3,353 ft) high Murjan Tower. The Qal'at al-Bahrain (the harbour and capital of the ancient land of Dilmun) was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.
Area: Total 750 km2 (185th) 290 square mile
Population: - 2010 estimate 1,234,596 - Density 1,646.1/km2
Language and religion:
Arabic is the official language of Bahrain though English is widely used. Bahrani Arabic is the most widely spoken language. Bahrain's primary religion is Islam.
Climate:
Tourism in Bahrain
As a tourist destination, Bahrain receives over eight million visitors per annum. Most of these are from the surrounding Arab states although an increasing number hail from outside the region due to growing awareness of the kingdom's heritage and its higher profile as a result of the Bahrain International F1 Circuit and Bahrain International Airshow. The Lonely Planet Guide describes Bahrain as "an excellent introduction to the Arabian Gulf" because of its authentic Arab heritage and reputation as a liberal and modern country.
Delegates interested in a free tour of Bahrain can register their names with:
Huda Haji Nedham
Head, Travel Agency Licensing
Air Transport Directorate
Tel : 17 - 321070
Fax: 17 - 333278 hnedham@caa.gov.bh
