#investment projects #Bahrain #Manama #Gateway Gulf #Bahrain Golden License

Bahrain's Golden License Unlocks New Investments

Bahrain has recently unveiled a significant investment milestone of USD 4.4 billion through the latest Golden License initiative, announced during the prestigious Gateway Gulf event held from November 2-3, 2025, at the Four Seasons Hotel, Bahrain Bay. This initiative is poised to further establish Bahrain as a compelling destination for global investors.

The new Golden Licenses awarded cover a diverse array of sectors including technology, real estate, and green manufacturing, underscoring Bahrain's commitment to economic diversification and growth. These projects are expected to create over 1,100 new job opportunities, contributing to the nation's economic landscape.

Key Projects Announced:

1. Oracle and Beyon Partnership: A groundbreaking collaboration between Oracle, a leading technology provider, and Beyon, a local tech group, will establish a sovereign cloud data center. This center will provide essential support for clients utilizing Oracle applications, boosting Bahrain's tech infrastructure.

2. Urban Living Transformation: The Binaa Al Bahrain project, a joint venture between Bahrain and the UAE, spearheaded by Eagle Hills, aims to redefine urban living in Bahrain through strategic developments designed for sustainable progress and modernization of the island nation.

3. Expansion of Arla Foods: The Bahrain facility of Arla Foods, a multinational dairy company, is set to expand its product line. This move positions Arla as the second-largest dairy manufacturer in the region, enhancing Bahrain's food security and increasing its exports to markets including the EU, Africa, China, Japan, and Indonesia.

4. Solar Project by Foulath Holding: An expansion project by Foulath Holding, a major player in the steel industry, will include the development of a solar energy project at an existing facility. This initiative demonstrates Bahrain's commitment to integrating green manufacturing practices into its industrial landscape.

During the announcement, H.E. Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development and Chief Executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB), emphasized that the Golden License program is more than just an initiative; it represents Bahrain's dedication to fostering a collaborative environment that encourages economic growth and prosperity.

Economic Overview

Bahrain has strategically shifted towards diversifying its economy, with non-oil GDP contributing a remarkable 85.3% of the total GDP as of 2024. Notably, the financial services sector leads with a contribution of 17.2%, followed by manufacturing at 15.1%.

Recent statistics reveal a substantial growth in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), rising to USD 45.5 billion and marking an impressive FDI stock-to-GDP ratio of 96.5%, well above the global average of 45.8%. This data reflects the strong trust international investors place in Bahrain’s investment landscape.

As it progresses, Bahrain continues to place a strong emphasis on digital transformation and the development of a highly educated, bilingual workforce. The Team Bahrain initiative advocates for public-private collaboration, creating a dynamic and innovative environment conducive to business success.

With these developments, Bahrain is not just enhancing its position as a regional investment hub but is also paving the way for sustainable economic progress in the years to come.