Known as the pearl of the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain is a liberal and modern island strategically located in the heart of the Arabian Gulf. Bahrain has emerged as an important gateway to other nations in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region due to excellent connectivity by road, air, and sea. Bahrain is chiefly a banking and financial services centre with a small and prosperous economy, which is less dependent on oil than most of the Gulf states.

Economic outlook
Bahrain offers numerous advantages for both, businesses and immigrants. A favourable tax environment with no corporate, personal or value-added tax, high standards of living, and a mature legal and administrative environment have all contributed towards making Bahrain an attractive destination in the Middle East.
Bahrain’s prosperity is less dependent on oil reserves unlike other nations in the region. The economy has diversified significantly, with financial institutions playing an important role. A boom in construction and development projects also makes Bahrain one of the fasting growing and freest economies in the region. Bahrain has an established base of leading international companies and financial institutions, attracted by strong economic growth and commitment to high standards and best practices, a pro-business culture and world-class infrastructure, and a cosmopolitan lifestyle. Bahrain is also a popular tourist destination with over two million tourists a year.

Living in Bahrain
Bahrain is a constitutional monarchy with an elected legislative assembly. It is regarded as one of the most cosmopolitan and Westernised countries in the Middle East. While Islam is the main religion, immigrants and visitors of all religions are free to practice their faith. While Arabic is the official language, English is widely used as the language for communication and business.
The climate is typically arid with very hot summers and high humidity. Winters are relatively cooler. One of the truly great attractions of working in Bahrain is the absence of personal taxation. Bahrain has the lowest tax jurisdiction in the GCC region along with the lowest living costs and business operating costs.
Shopping is not just a favoured pastime for visitors and expats but also a great way of discovering Bahraini culture and history. The most popular items of every shopping list in Bahrain include gold, spices, carpets and pearls, among other things. Be it the fashionable and expensive shopping malls or the traditional souks, the choices are many.

Accommodation
Over the last two years expats can freely buy or rent out property in designated areas. A variety of rental accommodation is easily available, from unfurnished apartments to furnished villas and executive apartments with amenities such as swimming pool, tennis court, gym, sauna, and maintenance. Longer rental contracts naturally ensure better deals. A constant turnover of expats also ensures easy availability of reasonably priced used furniture.

Transport
Cars are comparatively cheaper than in most other nations and the cost of petrol is also low, making cars the most preferred mode of transport. Used cars are easily available and so are long-term leases. While cars are the best mode of transport, metered taxis are easily available alternatives in the absence of sophisticated public transport network.

Working in Bahrain
Visas and work permits are organised by employers when the job offer is secured. The employee acts as the sponsor for the employee’s duration of stay in the country, and documents such as driving license, bank account and health cards are issued only against a Residence Visa, which is organised by the employer.