Bahrain’s Bapco Hits Record Output of 405,000 Barrels Per Day

 On the first anniversary of the launch of the Bahrain Petroleum Company (Bapco) refinery modernization program, His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Representative of His Majesty the King for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs and Chairman of Bapco Energies Group, conducted an extensive inspection of the upgraded refinery facilities. The visit, held in the context of ongoing monitoring of the new units’ performance, highlighted significant operational achievements and unveiled further plans for industrial expansion.

During the visit, His Highness reviewed the operational efficiency of the refinery, noting a substantial increase in production. Output has risen from 265,000 barrels per day to 380,000 barrels per day, and a new production capacity increase was announced, raising daily output to 405,000 barrels. This represents a 42% growth over previous capacity, boosting Bahrain’s export potential for high-value petroleum products by up to 40%, surpassing the initial targets set at the start of the modernization program.

In line with Bahrain’s strategy to localize energy-related industries, His Highness inaugurated the Bapco Manufacturing Facilities, a state-of-the-art unit for producing critical spare parts and equipment. Covering approximately 10% of the company’s annual needs, the facility is equipped with advanced manufacturing technologies, including 3D printing for precision parts.

His Highness also directed a feasibility study for an integrated industrial project aimed at producing spare parts and equipment for all energy facilities under Bapco Energies. The initiative seeks to establish a national industrial ecosystem that meets local sector needs, encourages engineering innovation, and positions Bahrain as a leading hub for advanced energy industries. Additional complementary projects were also commissioned to strengthen the refinery’s economic and technical impact while reinforcing Bahrain’s global reputation in innovation, sustainability, and advanced industrial sectors.

Highlighting the refinery’s achievements since its historic reopening, His Highness described the modernization program as a transformative milestone for Bahrain’s refining sector. He praised the leadership’s vision and its support for the program, which has created a sustainable operational backbone for Bapco Energies, aligned with Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.

The modernization program has successfully completed all construction phases and commenced safe and reliable operations following a successful trial period. The refinery now includes 32 new operational units, compared to 13 prior to the update, designed to operate with minimal energy use while adhering to global safety and risk management standards. Notable features include one of the region’s largest hydrocracking units, a new distillation unit, and digital control systems operating 24/7, enhancing operational efficiency and technological sophistication.

His Highness lauded the Bapco Board of Directors and executive management for their oversight and successful handling of all challenges, cost management, and governance throughout the project. He also emphasized the critical role of Bahraini youth, with over 700 engineers and technicians now employed in the new units, benefiting from more than 200,000 hours of specialized training both locally and internationally.

The refinery modernization marks a new chapter for Bahrain’s energy sector, aiming to expand refining capacity, diversify product offerings, and improve energy efficiency. The upgraded facilities position Bapco as one of the region’s most competitive and environmentally compliant refineries, securing its role as a cornerstone for the company’s long-term sustainability.