UAE-Bahrain Investment Forum promotes competitive advantages offered by both countries

Last October, the UAE Embassy in Bahrain organised the UAE-Bahrain Investment Forum, bringing together key stakeholders from both Council (GCC) countries. The forum focused on promoting investment opportunities.

Discussions focused on strategies the UAE and Bahrain can use to leverage their strengths to enhance private sector investment and drive economic benefits. The forum highlighted the competitive advantages offered by both nations to attract foreign investments.

Deepening UAE-Bahrain bilateral, economic relations

The UAE ambassador to Bahrain noted the strong bilateral and economic relations both countries share. He highlighted the Emirates’ global standing and its success in attracting $31 billion in investments in 2023. The UAE seeks to boost this figure to $150 billion.

The UAE-Bahrain Investment Forum held on October 23 also noted the economic strengths of Bahrain. The Gulf state’s non-oil sectors contribute 84% to its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Bilateral trade reached $3.225 billion last year.

812 Emirati nationals have a property in Bahrain and more than 7,000 Emirati investors are active in the Kingdom’s stock market. The sessions highlighted Bahrain’s diverse economy, underscoring the country’s competitive advantage as an investment hub.

Bahrain has been grabbing top spots in rankings for global destination for expatriates. The Kingdom ranks globally for qualified engineers, first in the Gulf region for technical skills and fourth globally for skilled labour, according to the official media agency.

Forum highlights potential for deeper economic collaboration

The UAE-Bahrain Investment Forum provided insights into both countries’ business environment. It highlighted the Gulf Investor Centre’s role in supporting GCC investors and noted that Emirati investors have registered a total capital of BHD 485 million by last month.

Sessions highlighted the significant potential for deeper economic collaboration. The UAE’s industrial sector is projected to expand from $36 billion to $81 billion by 2031. Simultaneously, Bahrain is becoming a hub for financial services, logistics and e-commerce.