Abdulla bin Adel Fakhro, Minister of Industry and Commerce, participated in the launch ceremony of the first edition of "The Business Year: Bahrain 2026", issued by The Business Year (TBY) group. The event witnessed the attendance of more than 150 prominent figures, including senior executives, decision-makers, and investors.

The minister affirmed that the Kingdom continues to enhance its position as a strategic gateway for global business. He highlighted Bahrain's flexible, open, and globally connected economy, along with its competitive economic and legislative ecosystem that provides a supportive environment for companies, enabling them to enter and expand within regional and international markets.

He explained that the Kingdom is moving forward with comprehensive regulatory developments that enhance performance efficiency, transparency, and investor confidence. These efforts contribute to accelerating procedures, overcoming challenges, and supporting sustainable economic development pathways.

The report, prepared over eight months, was based on more than 160 exclusive interviews with ministers, executives, and business leaders. It provides a comprehensive view of Bahrain’s economic trajectory, its competitive strengths, and its growing role as a regional hub for global business, while also highlighting the strength of its regulatory framework, the attractiveness of its investment environment, and the development of its infrastructure and national talent.

Khalid Abdulrahman Al Majeed, CEO of Edamah, reviewed the company’s investment strategy, diversified portfolio, community-oriented projects, and its role in supporting Bahrain’s economic goals.

The programme also featured a multi-sector panel discussion titled "The Role of Key Sectors in Enhancing Bahrain’s Position as a Global Gateway." Participants included Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, CEO of Bahrain International Circuit; Maryam Hassan Mustafa, CEO of the Education and Training Quality Authority; Safa Abdulkhaliq, CEO of Export Bahrain; and Othman Ahmed, CEO of Bahrain National Holding Group. The speakers discussed development opportunities within their sectors and their role in enhancing the Kingdom’s competitiveness and economic attractiveness.

For her part, Clara Corominas, Country Manager of "The Business Year" in Bahrain, confirmed that the launch of this edition reflects the growing level of trust between the group and both the public and private sectors in Bahrain. She noted that the wide participation and the quality of dialogue reflect the Kingdom’s ambition and readiness, affirming the group’s eagerness to bring these national experiences to a global platform.

The celebration also included a welcome speech by Zayed Rashid Al Zayani, Chairman of Al Zayani Investments. The event was institutionally supported by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), the British Chamber of Commerce in Bahrain, and the American Chamber of Commerce in Bahrain. "Al Zayani Investments" and "Amanat" participated as platinum sponsors, while "Bapco Energies," " ABC Bank," and "NBB" were gold sponsors. Gulf Hotels Group served as the official hospitality partner, and "Aramex" as the official distribution partner.