Bahrain Completes Preparations to Host 46th GCC Summit

As Bahrain puts the final touches on hosting the 46th GCC Summit, the Kingdom is once again preparing to become the meeting point for some of the region’s most important conversations. With global and regional developments shifting at high speed, all eyes are on Manama as Gulf leaders gather to shape the next phase of cooperation.

This year’s summit arrives at a crucial moment—especially as efforts continue to uphold the historic peace agreement aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza. For Bahrain, hosting the summit is not only a diplomatic duty but also a reflection of its steady commitment to Gulf unity and joint action.

A Journey That Began Over Four Decades Ago

More than 44 years have passed since the GCC was born in Abu Dhabi in 1981. The vision back then was simple but ambitious: build a regional family grounded in shared history, culture, and destiny. Bahrain, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, and Kuwait signed the founding charter with a promise to work together for the prosperity and security of their people.

That promise grew out of a time marked by uncertainty—yet the leaders chose cooperation over division, setting the foundation for what would become one of the region’s most influential alliances.

Building the Gulf House

In its early years, the GCC moved quickly.

• The first major step came with the Unified Economic Agreement in 1981, laying out a clear economic roadmap.

• Shortly after, in 1982, the Peninsula Shield Force was created—a joint military unit built on the belief that Gulf security must be shared and protected collectively.

These milestones were only the beginning. The GCC pushed forward with projects that connected its people through trade, energy grids, digital pathways, transportation, education, and coordinated security efforts. Together, member states shaped laws, defended borders, and launched initiatives that strengthened the fabric of the region.

From Cooperation to Full Integration

Today, the GCC stands on the threshold of a deeper phase of unity—one that goes beyond cooperation into full integration. Guided by the visions of their leaders, member states are aligning their development goals, including their 2030 and 2050 strategies, to keep pace with global shifts in technology, economy, and sustainability.

The message from the GCC councils and committees is clear: Gulf integration is not just an option—it is the path forward.

Summits That Shaped the Region

Across 44 years, GCC summits—whether routine or extraordinary—have often become turning points. They responded to crises, launched bold policies, and delivered decisions that strengthened political, economic, and security cooperation. Each summit added a new page to the story of the Gulf’s shared future.

As Bahrain welcomes the leaders for the 46th session, the moment serves as a reminder of the founding vision and the enduring spirit of unity that continues to guide the GCC. It is a story still being written—one summit at a time.