Bahrain is one of the best nations in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for expats looking for great jobs, a luxurious lifestyle, and a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Bahrain has been the first Gulf country to start female education, to establish a Chamber of Commerce, to establish a banking sector, to initiate democratic reforms and begin the process of privatization, to sign a free trade agreement (FTA) with the US, and to co-found the GCC Common Market. Here are the top five reasons for expats to make their life in Bahrain.
Top Five Reasons to Opt for Life in Bahrain
Top Five Reasons to Opt for Life in Bahrain
- Bahrain provides a lot of employment opportunities, given the fact that there are many MNCs, and that there is a growing non-petroleum sector, along with petroleum-related industries. In addition, the literacy rate is a high 95%; the workforce is bi-lingual, highly skilled and well-educated. The working population is skewed towards expats; 77% of those employed were expats, and 28% were Bahraini, as of December 2014. The unemployment rate was a low 3.8% at the end of 2014.
- Bahrain is an ideal destination for opening a new business. Bahrain allows 100% foreign ownership in all sectors. There is no corporate tax, withholding tax, or tax on capital gains. Bahrain allows for 100% repatriation of profits. The Bahrain Chamber of Dispute Resolution, along with the American Arbitration Association, provides best in class dispute resolution facilities. According to the 2015 Index of Economic Freedom published by the Wall Street Journal and the Heritage Foundation, Bahrain has the top rank among the GCC countries, and the 18th rank globally.
- Bahrain provides a luxurious standard of living. Bahrain is the highest ranked country in the HSBC Expat Explorer Survey among the nations in the GCC, and is the fourth best place to live and work in globally. Life in Bahrain is one of comfort for you and your family; the country has top class schools, the best in medical care, tourist attractions, a variety of shopping options, and great spas and fitness clubs.
- Bahrain has a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Since the population is bilingual, it is not compulsory to learn Arabic. Women are free to move around, and there are no restrictions on clothing. As in any other place, it is best to dress prudently.
- Bahrain is well-connected not only to the Middle East, but also to Europe. The major Gulf capitals are a short flight away, while European cities such as London can be reached by flight within seven hours.