Bahrain Delegation Concludes Participation at the World Economic Forum Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos

Davos, Switzerland, January, 24 2025:  A high-level Bahraini delegation, led by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Education Charitable Trust and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), successfully concluded its participation in the World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting 2025. The event, held from 20 to 24 January in Davos, Switzerland, carried the theme “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age.”  

During the Forum, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, along with the delegation, engaged in bilateral meetings, roundtable discussions, and high-level strategy sessions to highlight Bahrain’s initiatives and progress in economic diversification, sustainability, and innovation. His Highness visited pavilions of key countries, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the Sultanate of Oman, enhancing bilateral ties and collaboration. A significant milestone during the forum was the signing of an agreement between the Labour Fund (Tamkeen) and WEF to launch Bahrain’s Skills and Gender Parity Accelerator, which His Highness attended.

The Bahrain delegation included several senior government officials, comprising of HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Minister of Finance and National Economy and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (Mumtalakat); HE Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development and Chief Executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB);  HE Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce; HE Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed bin Salman Al Khalifa, President of the Court of the Crown Prince; Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive Officer of Mumtalakat; Hamad Al Mahmeed, Director General of the Prime Minister’s Office; Sara Buhejji, Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority; Iain Lindsay OB OBE, Advisor to the Board at Bahrain EDB; as well as other senior officials from Bahrain’s public and private sectors.

Members of the delegation actively contributed to the Forum’s agenda through a variety of speaking engagements to showcase Bahrain’s forward-looking policies, programmes, and economic achievements.  HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa participated in the GCC-focused session “Economic Diversification and Its Impact on Sustainability,” where he highlighted the transformative policies driving sustainable development in the Gulf and the role of technological innovation as a catalyst of economic reform. His Excellency also joined Monaco’s Secretary for Attractiveness, Development and Digital Transformation, Frédéric Genta, in the panel “Bahrain and Monaco: Building Powerful Country Brands in a Globalized World,” to discuss strategies for enhancing global competitiveness.  

HE Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif participated in the session “Leaders for a Sustainable MENA: Climate, AI, and Finance,” where she emphasised the Middle East’s energy transition and the integration of sustainability into its economic agenda, and highlighted the importance of collaboration between the private and public sectors in driving meaningful progress. She also contributed to the “Global Gender Parity Sprint Champions” meeting, in which global leaders collaborated on advancing gender parity and future-proofing diversity efforts.  

HE Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro took part in the strategy meeting “Pathways to Competitiveness: Setting the Industrial Policy Agenda,” exploring how governments and industries can align policies with sustainability goals and technological advancements.

The WEF 2025 Annual Meeting brought together a diverse community of leading stakeholders to address pressing challenges facing the economy, such as geopolitical instability, stimulating economic growth, and stewarding an inclusive energy transition.

A High-Level Delegation from Bahrain Heads to WEF Annual Meeting 2025 in Davos

A high-level delegation from the Kingdom of Bahrain, led by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Education Charitable Trust and Chairman of the Board of Directors the Labour Fund (Tamkeen), His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, is set to join global leaders at the upcoming World Economic Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland from 20 to 24 January 2025, held under the theme ‘Collaboration for the Intelligent Age’.

Bahrain’s delegation includes the Minister of Finance and National Economy and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company (Mumtalakat), HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, the Minister of Sustainable Development and Chief Executive of the Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB), HE Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif,  the Minister of Industry and Commerce, HE Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, the President of the Court of the Crown Prince, HE Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed bin Salman Al Khalifa, the Chief Executive Officer of Mumtalakat, Shaikh Abdulla bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, the Director General of the Prime Minister’s Office, Hamad Al Mahmeed, the Chief Executive Officer of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, Sara Buhejji, the Advisor to the Board at Bahrain EDB, Iain Lindsay OB OBE, as well as senior officials from Bahrain’s public and private sector.

The 55th Annual Meeting will bring together a diverse community of leading stakeholders to address key regional and global challenges facing the world economy, which include responding to geopolitical shocks, stimulating growth, and stewarding an inclusive energy transition. The 2025 Annual Meeting is expected to gather an influential assembly of global leaders from governments, businesses and civil societies, as well as the foremost scientific and cultural thinkers. With the aim of fostering new partnerships to shape a more sustainable, inclusive future in an era of rapidly advancing technology, this year’s programme will focus on five distinct and highly interconnected central themes: Reimagining Growth, Industries in the Intelligent Age, Investing in People, Safeguarding the Planet and Rebuilding Trust.

Republic of Guinea’s Minister of Planning and International Cooperation Visits Bahrain EDB

His Excellency Ismael Nabe, Minister of Planning and International Cooperation of the Republic of Guinea and an accompanying delegation visited the Bahrain Economic Development Board’s (Bahrain EDB) headquarters, in the presence of Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain EDB, along with senior representatives from Bahrain’s investment promotion agency, the Ministry of Sustainable Development, and Mumtalakat. During the meeting, Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif emphasised Bahrain’s unwavering commitment to fostering international collaboration and building fruitful partnerships, highlighting the country’s competitive advantages and its strategic location at the heart of the Arabian Gulf, which serves as a key hub for trade and investment in the region. Her Excellency also reiterated Bahrain EDB’s commitment to attracting global investment and positioning the Kingdom of Bahrain as a gateway to the opportunities in the region and beyond, underscoring the importance of establishing strong bilateral ties that can lead to mutual growth and prosperity.

During His Majesty the King’s state visit to the Sultanate of Oman Bahrain and Oman Sign an MoU to Boost Investment Cooperation

The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation in investment promotion across 15 economic sectors

During His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s state visit to the Sultanate of Oman, where he had official deliberations with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tariq Al Said, the Sultan of Oman, the two countries signed an MoU establishing a framework for cooperation in investment promotion between Bahrain and Oman. The MoU aims to raise awareness around investment opportunities and further strengthen bilateral relations.


The MoU was officially signed by H.E. Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, Bahrain’s Minister of Finance and National Economy, and H.E. Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion. The agreement explores cooperation opportunities across 15 key economic sectors, focusing on promoting investment, facilitating public-private partnerships, coordinating promotional activities, and fostering connections between Bahraini and Omani businesses to encourage joint ventures and strategic collaboration.

Omani investment stock in Bahrain reached USD398 million, with USD39.3 million in investment inflows in 2023 alone. The investments were made across vital sectors such as financial services, insurance, mining, healthcare, real estate, and construction, reflecting a commitment to diversifying economic ties.

Prime Minister of Yakutia Visits Bahrain Economic Development Board

His Excellency Kirill Bykov, Prime Minister of Yakutia, along with a distinguished delegation, visited the Bahrain Economic Development Board’s (Bahrain EDB) headquarters, in the presence of Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain EDB, His Excellency Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce, and senior representatives from Bahrain’s investment promotion agency.

During the meeting, Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif underscored Bahrain’s commitment to fostering international partnerships, highlighting the country’s competitive advantages and its strategic location at the heart of the Arabian Gulf, reinforcing Bahrain EDB’s commitment to attracting investment and positioning the Kingdom of Bahrain as a dynamic gateway for global investors looking to tap into regional opportunities.

The Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region Masrour Barzani Visits Bahrain Economic Development Board

The Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region,  Masrour Barzani, accompanied by a distinguished delegation, recently visited the Bahrain Economic Development Board’s (Bahrain EDB) headquarters, in the presence of H.E Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain EDB and senior representatives from Bahrain’s investment promotion agency.

During the meeting, Her Excellency Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif underscored Bahrain’s commitment to fostering international partnerships, strengthening bilateral relations, and discussing areas of mutual interest, reinforcing Bahrain EDB’s commitment to attracting investment and positioning the Kingdom of Bahrain as a gateway to the Gulf for global investors.

Bahrain EDB Heads to France to Promote Investment Opportunities

The Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB), has kicked off a three-day strategic visit to France, led by H.E. Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain EDB with the support of senior members of the island nation’s investment promotion agency. Featuring a series of curated events and meetings, the trip is designed to strengthen economic and trade ties between the two countries as well as showcase the healthy growth prospects Bahrain offers across priority sectors, with a focus on financial services and tourism.

Bahrain continues to serve as the gateway to the Gulf providing facilitated access to the wider MENA region. Bahrain EDB operates several offices in strategic locations around the world, including Paris, to promote Bahrain as a destination for investment. Supported by its headquarters in Bahrain, the Paris office plays a crucial role in offering French businesses market intelligence, guidance, and connections to key decision-makers.

H.E. Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain EDB, said, “Bahrain stands at the forefront of economic opportunity, leveraging its established heritage of being a dynamic hub of investment with its forward-looking policies. Our strategic location, robust infrastructure, and bilingual talent pool continues to position our island nation as an ideal destination for international investors. We look forward to engaging with multi-sectoral French businesses to unlock new avenues for mutually beneficial growth.”

Financial services, manufacturing, logistics, ICT and tourism companies stand to benefit from Bahrain’s unique value proposition, which fosters a favourable and innovative investment ecosystem, enabling international businesses to easily set up in Bahrain and expand to the region beyond. With France’s cumulative investments in Bahrain valued at USD 322 million, Bahrain is home to prominent French companies including NextCare, Fives Solios, Thales, Accor, Egis International and Veolia. The non-oil trade between Bahrain and France has seen a remarkable trajectory, growing 53% from USD 334 million in 2019 to over USD 512 million in 2023.

Bahrain remains committed to reinforcing its position as a prime destination for investment, with forward-looking policies aimed at simplifying business operations and offering unique competitive advantages that lead to success stories with local roots and global impact. These factors, combined with Bahrain’s highly skilled, bi-lingual, diverse talent pool,  continue to cement the island nation as an attractive destination for global investors year after year.

During the first nine months of 2024, Bahrain EDB successfully attracted USD1.056 billion in direct investment from 62 local and international projects. Notably, 40% of these investments represent new ventures, while 60% are expansion projects, projected to create over 5,400 employment opportunities within a three-year period.

Valo Aviation Receives License to Operate Luxury Business Aviation in Bahrain

On the sidelines of Bahrain International Airshow (BIAS) 2024, Valo Aviation WLL, a new business jet operator based in Bahrain, today announced that it has officially received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Bahrain Civil Aviation Affairs. This significant milestone marks the company’s readiness to commence commercial flight operations, a pivotal step in enhancing Bahrain’s status as a hub for business aviation.

“We are thrilled to receive our AOC certification, which reflects the hard work and dedication of our team,” said Hanna Hakamo, CEO of Valo Aviation. “This achievement allows us to move forward with our mission to provide exceptional, world-class business aviation services in the region and contribute to Bahrain’s growing business aviation sector.”

Valo Aviation is committed to delivering a modern, luxury flying experience featuring state-of-the-art aircraft focusing on excellence. The company aims to cater to a diverse clientele, including corporate executives, government officials, and private individuals seeking the utmost in comfort and convenience.

Ali Al Mudaifa, Chief of Business Development at Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB) said: “Valo Aviation’s entry into the market is a testament to Bahrain’s strategic position as a leading aviation hub in the Arabian Gulf region. The establishment of Valo Aviation marks an important step in our efforts to diversify the economy and enhance the quality of services available to business travellers. We look forward to supporting Valo Aviation as it grows and contributes to our vibrant aviation sector.”

With this new certification, Valo Aviation is poised to redefine luxury air travel in the region, promising an unparalleled service experience tailored to its discerning clientele in Bahrain and beyond. For more information about Valo Aviation and its upcoming flight services, please visit www.valo.aero or contact us at office@valo.aero.

Aerolam Breaks Ground on New USD 14 Million Manufacturing Facility in Bahrain to Drive Regional Growth in Sustainable Insulation

Aerolam Group of Companies, headquartered in Ahmedabad, India, a leader in the manufacturing of chemically crosslinked closed-cell polyolefin foam for the HVAC and building insulation market, today announced the groundbreaking of its new USD 14 million manufacturing facility in Bahrain. This milestone marks Aerolam’s first international plant, set to be located in the Bahrain International Investment Park, Salman Industrial Area, Hidd. It will support the company’s commitment to meeting the growing demand for insulation solutions across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

The construction industry in MENA, particularly in Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is projected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.01% over the next five years. In response to this booming demand, Aerolam’s Bahrain-based greenfield project will enable the company to provide high-quality insulation products to these key markets. Once operational in Q4 2025, the facility will create local jobs and manufacture a diverse range of XLPE insulation products, including rolls, sheets, boards, and pipes, all produced under the trusted Aerolam brand.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the groundbreaking of our Bahrain facility,” said Mr. Brijesh Patel, Managing Director of Aerolam Group. “This new plant will position us to better serve the MENA region with sustainable, energy-efficient, and fire-safe insulation solutions. It represents a significant step forward in our mission to support regional growth in the construction and insulation industries.”

Mr. Nilesh Sanghvi, Director and Board Member of Aerolam Group, highlighted the importance of the new Bahrain facility as a part of Aerolam’s strategic growth. “This plant is a core part of our expansion strategy, showcasing our dedication to our customers across the MENA region and our confidence in Bahrain as a regional hub for innovation and manufacturing,” Mr. Sanghvi said.

Mr. Neville Dsouza, General Manager of Aerolam Middle East added, “This groundbreaking marks a defining moment for our company. By establishing a manufacturing presence here, we’re positioning ourselves to contribute meaningfully to the industry’s growth while enabling a robust business environment that benefits all stakeholders. We extend our gratitude to the Bahrain Economic Development Board (EDB), Tamkeen, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC), and the Bahrain government for their ongoing support and dedication to creating a favourable business environment for the manufacturing sector.”

The manufacturing industry is one of the most important contributors to Bahrain’s economy. Representing around 14% of GDP, the sector is a key driver of the Kingdom’s economic diversification efforts. Bahraini manufacturers enjoy duty-free access through its FTAs with 24 countries around the world, including the first US FTA with a GCC member.

Bahrain EDB Announces Attracting Over USD 100 million in Investment Commitments from Singapore

Bahrain Economic Development Board (Bahrain EDB) today reported at the sidelines of Singapore Fintech Festival 2024 attracting over USD 100 million in investment commitments from Singapore-based companies since November 2023 across key sectors, namely financial services, ICT, and tourism. Marking a new milestone for the Island nation’s investment promotion agency, the results demonstrate the impact of Bahrain EDB’s expansive international footprint, wherein the Singapore office is the first to have been established in the ASEAN region a year ago.

H.E. Noor bint Ali Alkhulaif, Minister of Sustainable Development, Chief Executive of Bahrain Economic Development Board said, “Underscoring the established trust of international investors in Bahrain’s value proposition, this milestone achievement is a testament to the impact and agility of our ‘Team Bahrain’ approach, wherein both the public and private sectors work in tandem to ensure Bahrain’s investment environment remains attractive, defined by forward-looking regulatory frameworks and streamlined services, offering a seamless journey for businesses setting up in our island nation,” adding, “We take pride in the steady growth of investments from key markets including Singapore and in witnessing international firms that set up in Bahrain successfully expand and flourish.”

Strategically positioned in the heart of the Arabian Gulf, Bahrain is celebrated for its openness, tolerance, and cultural diversity. The island nation is home to a highly skilled talent pool, where the local workforce is consistently elevated and supported by government grants and subsidised programmes, and thereby equipped to meet the demands of an evolving global market. Women make up 34% of the financial services and insurance sector alone. Several leading firms, including Citi and PwC Middle East, have chosen Bahrain as their base for tech hubs and service centres to cater to their global clientele.

Dalal Buhejji, Executive Director of Financial Services at Bahrain EDB, added, “Bahrain has always been a hub for innovation and financial services. As a singular financial regulator, the Central Bank of Bahrain (CBB) has been a pioneering force in supporting the development of Bahrain’s thriving financial services sector introducing robust regulatory frameworks that include regional-firsts in crypto assets and open banking. Beyond this, businesses operating in Bahrain benefit from a future-ready workforce that combines bi-lingual, driven Bahraini nationals with a diverse expat talent pool offering global perspectives.”

As the first Gulf nation to diversify its economy, Bahrain continues to flourish, with its digitally empowered financial services sector contributing almost 17% to real GDP as of 2023. The sector boasts a diverse mix of prominent international banks, financial institutions, fintechs, and new digital asset players. This includes Singapore-based firms like Whampoa Group’s Singapore Gulf Bank and the recently licensed Crypto.com to provide payment services.

Bahrain EDB’s Singapore-based office serves its headquarters by providing strategic on-ground presence and advisory services to investors and businesses within Singapore seeking to expand or set up in Bahrain, which has cemented itself as a business-friendly gateway to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). Offering comprehensive services that includes research-led market insights and industry assessments, Bahrain EDB supports investors journey from end-to-end, facilitating connections with key decision-makers across Bahrain’s public and private sector and providing tailored aftercare services long after businesses first embark on their journey.

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