Bahrain
(Mamlakat al-Bahrain (Kingdom of Bahrain))
Capital of Bahrain : Manama
Population (Estimated July 2012): 1,248,348
Area: 757km2 or 292mi2
Currency: Bahraini Dinar (BD)
Official Language: Arabic
Political Information: Constitutional Monarchy
Official Religion: Islam
(approximately 81.2% of the population are Muslim (Shia and Sunni), 9% are Christian and 9.8% have other religious beliefs)
Highest Point: Jabal ad Dukhan at 122m or 400ft
GDP Official Exchange Rate (OER is more precise at gauging a countries economic power)
(Estimated 2011): $26.4 billion (US$) or £15.84 billion (GBP)
GDP (OER) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): (US$) or (GBP)
GDP Purchasing Power Parity (PPP is good for gauging living conditions and use of resources but not as accurate as OER. This data has been calculated based on the sum value of all goods and services produced in the country valued at prices prevailing in the United States)
(Estimated 2011): $30.8 billion (US$) or £18.48 billion (GBP)
GDP (PPP) Per Capita (per member of the population estimated 2011): $27,300 (US$) or £16,380 (GBP)
Time Zone (GMT/UTC): +3:00
Governorates: Asamah, Janubiyah, Muharraq, Shamaliyah, Wasat
Leaders: King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa; Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa; Prime Minister Khalifa bin Salman Al-Khalifa
Sources: CIA World Fact Book, Encyclopaedia Britannica,
Discovering the Hidden Gems of Bahrain: A Guide to the Kingdom’s Best-Kept Secrets
Bahrain, a small island nation in the Arabian Gulf, may not be the first destination that comes to mind when planning a trip. However, this hidden gem is filled with rich history, stunning natural landscapes, vibrant neighborhoods, delicious cuisine, a thriving art...