Economy of Bahrain
An overview of key economic indicators. Select a category for detailed trends, charts, and insights.
Explore Economic Domains
Growth & Output
Trade & Finance
Labor & Income
Energy & Environment
Economic Snapshot Overview
A summary of key economic indicators for Bahrain
- The economic architecture of Bahrain is substantial, anchored by a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately $46.08B2023. This places it as the 92nd largest economy out of 191 countries measured, underscoring its significance on the world stage. On a per capita basis, GDP stands at $29.22K2023, while its GDP adjusted for Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) is estimated at $100.14B, offering a clearer picture of the population's domestic purchasing power. The economy demonstrates solid, consistent growth, expanding at a healthy rate of 3.0%2023, accompanied by a stable price environment, with inflation (CPI) contained at 0.9%.2024
- On the global stage, Bahrain's trade and financial dynamics reveal a complex interplay of international and domestic factors. The country maintains a strong export-oriented economy, reflected in a significant trade surplus, with exports representing 87.6% of GDP compared to imports at 70.3%2023. The investment climate attracts significant Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), with inflows constituting 14.84% of the economy2023. This performance positions the country 9th globally out of 186 nations, confirming its status as a competitive destination for foreign capital. The government operates under fiscal constraints, with a limited tax base that generates revenue equivalent to only 2.8% of GDP.2020
- The socio-economic landscape is characterized by a Gross National Income (GNI) per capita of $28,3002023, ranking the nation 37th out of 190. This figure provides a comprehensive measure of the average income per person, reflecting the nation's overall economic well-being. The labor market demonstrates considerable strength, with a low unemployment rate of 1.1%, suggesting conditions close to full employment.2024A key feature of the workforce is its concentration in the services sector, which accounts for 64.5% of total employment2023.
- In the environmental and energy sectors, the nation's policies and outcomes reflect its developmental priorities. Total greenhouse gas emissions were last recorded at 63.73K tonnes of CO2 equivalent2023, a key factor in its national climate strategy and international obligations.
Key Economic Insights
Macroeconomic Health
Balancing growth, inflation, and employment remains the core challenge for economic stewardship.
Trade & Investment Profile
A deeply globalized, export-powerhouse economy that is highly attractive to foreign capital, making it vulnerable but adaptive to global shifts.
Social Equity & Distribution
Ensuring equitable distribution of economic gains is fundamental for long-term social and political stability.
Energy & Sustainability
A heavy dependence on fossil fuels poses significant long-term risks, including exposure to price volatility, energy insecurity, and climate change impacts.
Note: The information on this page has been compiled from authoritative sources. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, please note that some figures may not be current or entirely precise.