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Bahrain Bahrain, officially the Kingdom of Bahrain (Arabic: مملكة البحرين, Mamlakat al-Baḥrayn), is a small island country located in the Persian Gulf, near the western shores of the Arabian Peninsula. It is the third-smallest nation in Asia after the Maldives and Singapore, covering an area of approximately 760 square kilometers.

Geography Bahrain is an archipelago of 33 islands, with the largest being Bahrain Island, where the capital, Manama, is located. It is connected to Saudi Arabia by the King Fahd Causeway. The country is known for its arid climate, with hot summers and mild winters.

History Bahrain has a rich history that dates back to ancient times, being part of the Dilmun civilization, an important trade hub linking Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley. It later came under the control of the Assyrians, Babylonians, and Persians before the arrival of Islam in the 7th century. In the 19th century, Bahrain became a British protectorate, gaining independence on August 15, 1971. It declared itself a kingdom in 2002.

Economy Bahrain's economy is one of the most diversified in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), with sectors such as banking, finance, and tourism supplementing its oil industry. Despite its relatively limited oil reserves compared to its neighbors, Bahrain has positioned itself as a financial hub in the region.

Culture Bahrain’s culture is deeply rooted in Arab and Islamic traditions. It is known for its pearl diving heritage, traditional music, and vibrant souks. Arabic is the official language, and Islam is the state religion. The country is celebrated for its multicultural society, as a significant portion of its population consists of expatriates.

Tourism Popular attractions in Bahrain include:

Bahrain Fort (Qal'at al-Bahrain): A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Al Fateh Grand Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world. Tree of Life: A solitary 400-year-old tree in the desert. Formula 1 Bahrain International Circuit: Hosts the Bahrain Grand Prix. Government Bahrain is a constitutional monarchy, with King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa serving as the head of state. The National Assembly is a bicameral body, with an elected lower house and an appointed upper house.

Demographics As of 2023, Bahrain’s population is around 1.8 million, with expatriates making up more than half. The official currency is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD).

Notable Facts Bahrain was the first Gulf country to discover oil in 1932. It is home to the Bahrain World Trade Center, a pioneering wind-powered skyscraper. The kingdom has invested heavily in education and healthcare, achieving high literacy and life expectancy rates in the region.