As a businessman, it is essential to be aware of the opportunities and challenges that come with doing business in different countries. Bahrain, known as the “Gateway to the Gulf”, is a strategic location for businessmen due to its stable political climate, a skilled workforce, and a favorable business environment. In this blog post, we will share tips that can help you navigate the business sector in Bahrain and ensure successful business transactions.
Understand the Business Culture
Bahrain is a country that highly values personal relationships, and this reflects in its business culture. It is crucial to take the time to build relationships and establish trust with potential partners before engaging in business transactions. Arriving on time, dressing appropriately, and showing respect to local customs, such as the Arabic greeting, are important for building a positive impression.
Identify the Right Partner or Agent
With the help of the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB), you can find a trustworthy business partner or agent who can provide local market insights and connections. Engage in due diligence and review the background of potential partners, their track records, and recommendations from previous clients. A qualified agent can make the process of starting a business in Bahrain smoother by providing valuable advice on legal, regulatory, and logistical matters.
Understand the Legal Framework
Bahrain has a transparent and modern legal system, with the business-friendly Commercial Companies Law that grants foreign investors the same treatment as Bahrainis. However, it is crucial to understand local laws and regulations to avoid potential legal issues. Seek the help of a legal expert in Bahrain to guide you through the different stages of setting up a business, including obtaining a commercial registration and a residence visa.
Leverage Bahrain’s Financial Sector
Bahrain has a well-established financial sector, with a range of local and international banks, insurance companies, and asset management firms. Bahrain’s Central Bank regulates and supervises the financial sector, providing stability and transparency. Leveraging the open, liberalized, and competitive financial services sector in Bahrain can help businessmen to access capital and financial services while benefiting from low taxes and free trade agreements.
Be Flexible and Patient
Like any business venture, moving into a new market takes time, patience, and flexibility. Bahrain’s business sector is continuously evolving, with new opportunities and challenges presenting themselves. Being open to new approaches, adapting to local customs and market trends, and learning from past mistakes can help you achieve success in Bahrain’s business sector. Below are 5 largest companies in Bahrain.
ALUMINIUM BAHRAIN BSC
It is an industrial company involved in the production of primary aluminum and downstream products. Alba operates an integrated aluminum complex that includes a smelter, casthouse, and rolling mill.
The company’s primary focus is on the production of high-quality aluminum products, including standard and specialized ingots, sow, T-ingots, extrusion billets, and rolling slabs. These products serve various industries such as automotive, construction, electrical, and packaging.
Products : Primary Aluminum, T-Ingot, Sow, Specialized Ingot, Specialized Ingot, Standard Ingot, Extrusion Billets, Rolling Slabs.
NATIONAL BANK OF BAHRAIN
As prominent commercial bank operating in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Established in 1957, NBB has grown to become one of the leading financial institutions in the country. With its rich heritage and strong presence, the bank offers a comprehensive range of banking and financial services to meet the diverse needs of its customers.
NBB provides a wide array of products and solutions encompassing retail banking, corporate and commercial banking, investment banking, wealth management, and international banking. These offerings include current and savings accounts, loans, credit cards, trade finance solutions, treasury services, investment advisory, and more. The bank’s focus on customer satisfaction and commitment to delivering innovative and personalized solutions has earned it a trusted reputation among individuals, businesses, and institutional clients.
Products : Merchant Services, Credit Cards, International Remittance Services, Investment Advisory, Islamic Investment Products, Digital Payment Solutions, Personal Loans, Fixed Deposits, Shari’a-compliant Accounts, Wealth Planning, Savings Accounts, Trade Finance Solutions, Business Loans, Islamic Financing Solutions, Foreign Currency Accounts, Corporate Banking Services, Business Accounts, Asset Management, Current Accounts, Mobile Banking, Online Banking.
BAHRAIN TELECOMMUNICATIONS
As a leading telecommunications provider in the Kingdom of Bahrain. With a history dating back to 1981, Batelco has played a crucial role in the development and advancement of the telecommunications industry in Bahrain. The company offers a comprehensive range of innovative and reliable telecommunications services to individuals, businesses, and government entities.
Batelco’s portfolio includes mobile services, broadband and internet solutions, fixed-line services, digital TV offerings, and cloud and ICT solutions. With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, Batelco continually invests in infrastructure and network enhancements to provide seamless connectivity and meet the evolving communication needs of its customers.
Products : Network Solutions, Security Solutions, Business Landline Connections, Mobile Internet Packages, Batelco TV Packages, Voice and Data Services, Cloud Computing Services, Residential Landline Connections, Digital TV Equipment, Home Broadband Plans, Postpaid Mobile Plans, On-Demand Video Streaming, International Roaming Services, Data Center Solutions, Fixed Line Internet, Fiber Optic Internet, Connectivity Solutions, Unified Communications, Managed IT Services, Wi-Fi Services, Prepaid Mobile Plans, Business Broadband Solutions.
GFH FINANCIAL GROUP BSC
With a strong presence in the Middle East and a global reach, GFH offers a wide range of financial services and investment solutions to individual and institutional clients. The group operates across various sectors, including investment banking, asset management, commercial banking, real estate development, and treasury and global markets.
GFH’s diverse product offerings include capital markets advisory, corporate finance services, investment funds, real estate investment trusts (REITs), wealth management solutions, and trade finance services. The group’s expertise lies in providing innovative financial solutions tailored to the specific needs of its clients, both locally and internationally. GFH’s commitment to excellence, coupled with its deep industry knowledge and extensive network, positions it as a trusted partner for individuals, businesses, and institutions seeking comprehensive financial services.
Products : Debt and Equity Capital Raising, Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs), Money Market Instruments, Fixed Income Investments, Hospitality and Leisure Projects, Investment Funds, Capital Markets Advisory, Portfolio Management, Structured Products, Private Equity Funds, Foreign Exchange Services, Mergers and Acquisitions, Real Estate Funds, Commercial and Mixed-Use Developments, Wealth Planning and Structuring, Corporate Finance Services, Working Capital Financing, Trade Finance Solutions, Corporate Banking Services, Investment Advisory Services, Residential Projects.
AL SALAM BANK B.S.C
Al Salam Bank B.S.C. (Al Salam Bank) offers institutions, corporations, and individuals Sharia-compliant financial services and products. Al Salam Bank operates with a strong commitment to ethical and responsible banking practices, adhering to the principles of Islamic finance.
Al Salam Bank provides various banking solutions, including personal banking, business banking, wealth management, treasury products, and international banking services. The bank’s product offerings encompass current and savings accounts, financing solutions, credit cards, trade finance, investment advisory, portfolio management, and more. With a focus on customer satisfaction and the highest standards of professionalism, Al Salam Bank aims to meet the diverse financial needs of its customers while remaining compliant with Islamic principles.
Products : Correspondent Banking Services, Asset Management, Murabaha Financing, Cash Management Services, Islamic Structured Products, Islamic Treasury Products, Business Accounts, Trade Finance Solutions, Savings Accounts, Wealth Planning, Islamic Money Market Instruments, Foreign Currency Accounts, Credit Cards, Current Accounts, Project Financing, Syndicated Financing, Trade Finance Solutions, International Trade Finance, Investment Advisory, Sukuk Investments, Working Capital Financing.
Other Largest Bahrain Business
- APM TERMINALS BAHRAIN BSC
- ARAB BANKING CORPORATION
- GULF HOTELS GROUP
- SEEF PROPERTIES
- BAHRAIN CAR PARKS COMPANY (AMAKIN) BSC
Bahrain offers many opportunities for businessmen who are looking for a stable and business-friendly environment. Navigating the business sector in Bahrain can be easier with an understanding of the local culture, businesses, legal framework, and financial sector. As a businessman, by following these tips and taking a proactive approach to understanding the market, you can establish meaningful and successful business relationships in Bahrain. By leveraging Bahrain’s strengths, such as its location, skilled workforce, and business-friendly environment, your business can flourish and thrive in the Gulf region. Data taken in May 2023.