Car Imports in Bahrain Jump 15% in First Half of 2025 Amid Growing Demand

TDT | Manama

Email : ashen@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain has imported more than 22,200 vehicles in the first six months of 2025, marking a 15% increase compared to the same period last year, according to official figures. In the first half of 2024, the Kingdom brought in around 19,400 vehicles.

The growth reflects rising consumer demand, supported by a booming local market, population growth, ongoing housing expansion projects, and increased consumer lending activity, especially in the auto sector.

This upward trend has been building steadily since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2024, Bahrain recorded the highest annual car imports since 2017, with 44,216 vehicles brought in. Back in 2017, imports had exceeded 47,000 cars.

January 2025 stood out as the busiest month in over eight years, with 5,365 vehicles imported — a sign of strong momentum at the start of the year. This surge was fueled by end-of-year promotional offers and credit facilities from banks and finance companies.

On the other hand, May 2025 recorded the lowest number of imports in the first half of the year, with just 2,453 vehicles. Industry experts link this dip to recurring seasonal factors such as school exams and the summer holiday period.

The sustained growth signals improving consumer confidence and a broader base of younger buyers entering the market. It also highlights the role of stable and flexible customs policies, which are making it easier to import vehicles through Khalifa Bin Salman Port, the main gateway for the Kingdom’s commercial goods.

Bahrain’s auto market typically sees 28,000 to 35,000 new vehicles sold each year, according to local dealership data. In addition to new car sales, the country also hosts a vibrant used car market, with imports primarily from the United States, Japan, and South Korea.