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Gateway Gulf 2025: A Milestone for Investment

The recent Gateway Gulf 2025 event, held on November 2-3, marked a significant chapter in Bahrain's investment landscape. Hosted by the Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB) at the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel in Bahrain Bay, this year's forum concluded with over $17 billion in landmark partnerships and announcements from more than 60 deals. The central theme of the event was 'Rethinking Global Investment for New Trade Dynamics,' a fitting backdrop for the ambitious discussions that unfolded.

Key Figures and Participants

With over 200 global business leaders and ministers in attendance, the forum buzzed with the promise of renewed investment opportunities, emphasizing the Kingdom's role as a hub of innovation and a bridge between East and West. This dialogue opened avenues for exploring Bahrain's vast investment potential while reinforcing its position in a rapidly evolving global market.

The event's inauguration was led by H.E. Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, the Deputy Prime Minister. His address, along with H.E. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al-Khalifa, the Minister of Finance and National Economy, highlighted Bahrain's ongoing journey into a digital-first and knowledge-driven economy. As reiterated by the officials, Bahrain is confidently stepping into what they termed 'the age of intelligence.'

Noteworthy Announcements and Deals

Throughout the two-day event, notable agreements were sealed, reinforcing Bahrain’s commitment to expanding its non-oil sectors, which include Financial Services, ICT, Manufacturing, Logistics, and Tourism. One of the significant highlights was the Golden License initiative that honored four strategic projects:

1. Beyon and Oracle - This partnership aims to establish a sovereign cloud data center tailored for clients utilizing Oracle applications.
2. Binaa Al Bahrain - Focusing on urban development, this project aims to align with Bahrain's ambitions for sustainable modernization.
3. Arla Foods - The multinational dairy company announced plans to expand its product range in Bahrain, asserting its position as the second-largest dairy producer in the region.
4. Foulath - Known for its steel investments, Foulath is set to expand its facility with a new solar project.

Additionally, other groundbreaking announcements included:

• - AirAsia Capital began discussions to make Bahrain its Middle East hub, fostering connectivity between ASEAN and the rapidly growing aviation sector in the region.
• - Investcorp revealed it secured $1.2 billion in investments in the first quarter of the fiscal year 2026, demonstrating its commitment to Bahrain's market.
• - SICO expanded its product suite, introducing a Turkiye Fund alongside a Gold Investment initiative.
• - Aluminium Bahrain (ALBA) formed strategic alliances to enhance the global aluminum supply chain, strengthening trade ties between the GCC and Asia.
• - Rashid Equestrian Horseracing Club presented an ambitious plan to develop a premier sports and lifestyle venue covering three million square meters.

Looking Ahead: Bahrain's Investment Prospects

The Bahrain Tender Board reported awarding multiple government tenders worth billions in the first nine months of 2025, indicating a robust focus on infrastructure development. These efforts reflect a shared vision among Gulf member states to enhance trade corridors, invest in future industries, and amplify the contribution of non-oil sectors to GDP.

The outstanding success of Gateway Gulf 2025 highlights Bahrain's rising appeal as an investment destination. The continual participation and enthusiasm from a diverse pool of global leaders signify Bahrain's commitment to international collaboration and its strategic position in the global economy. The innovation-oriented discussions and partnerships formed at this forum establish a solid foundation for Bahrain's promising future as an agile and business-friendly gateway to the region.

With the insights gained and partnerships forged at Gateway Gulf 2025, Bahrain is clearly poised for significant growth and innovation in the years to come.