Message from our Chief Executive
Bahrain and its people are rightly proud of the good progress we have made as a nation over the last three decades. We have developed our economy, our culture and our society in many positive and constructive ways. But just being good is not enough - we have an inspiring ambition to make the Kingdom of Bahrain a truly great nation.
Working together to create change
I am proud to report that the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB) is working with both the private and public sectors to bring about a change process that is inextricably linked to the task of making Bahrain one of the most vibrant economies in the world - a place in which our businesses, our citizens and our society can thrive. Our ambition as a nation to be truly great revolves around growth - the growth of the national wealth, the size of the national economy, the contribution of the private sector, and investments in our people.
Making it happen
In order to fulfil our leadership role in developing and delivering the Kingdom's new strategy for growth, we have structured the Bahrain EDB into a number of key activities.
Our Economic Strategy team focuses on developing the macro economic strategy for the Kingdom, by providing an investment environment that accurately reflects the aspirations of the nation. The team sets the direction for the economy and then monitors progress to enable the Government to respond to external changes and unexpected influences that may affect the performance of the economy.
The role of our Projects Team is to map out the changes that will need to be implemented if we are to reach the potential set out by the economic strategy team. At a micro economic level, the team is responsible for driving through change, and transforming economic conditions and Government procedures to ensure the Kingdom extends a 'red carpet' to all potential and existing investors and businesses.
The mission of our Business Development team is to stimulate growth in key value-creating sectors of the economy, and seek and attract inward investment into the Kingdom from leading regional and international organisations. These include sectors in which Bahrain already has a distinct competitive advantage, such as banking and financial services. Excellent potential also exists in logistics, ICT, education and training, healthcare, manufacturing and tourism.
The task of the Marketing and Communications team is to ensure that all the Kingdom's stakeholders - both at home and abroad - receive the right messages. On the one hand, we aim to ensure that every citizen of Bahrain understands and shares our vision for the future. On the other hand, we aim to develop a brand strategy for Bahrain, and then communicate the key messages that will put Bahrain on the map as the place to do business in the Middle East.
A catalyst for change
Bahrain has already been successful in transforming itself from a fledging state into a successful and progressive nation. The Kingdom is now faced with the next stage in this transformation, which is designed to create continued prosperity that is independent of oil wealth. Achieving our inspiring ambitions will increase the size of our middle class and increase our competitiveness.
The Bahrain Economic Development Board is committed to making it happen. By acting as a catalyst for change, we will help to encourage a new way of thinking and a new way of doing things. The Bahrain EDB takes pride in its role to guide the Kingdom towards achieving its vision of the future.
Mohammed Bin Essa Al-Khalifa
Chief Executive
Economic Development Board