Bahrain Chamber Marks Over a Century of Supporting Private Sector
Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Chairman Nabeel Khalid Kanoo hailed the Chamber's founding anniversary as a significant national milestone, celebrating more than a century of service to Bahrain's private sector and national economy.
Kanoo said the Chamber's origins date back to 1910, making it the first chamber of commerce in the Gulf region and one of Bahrain's oldest economic institutions. Over the decades, it has played a central role in representing the interests of the business community while supporting the Kingdom's economic development.
On the occasion, Kanoo expressed his gratitude to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for their continued support of the Chamber and the private sector. He said the leadership's vision has strengthened Bahrain's business environment and enhanced the private sector's contribution to the country's comprehensive development.
Kanoo explained that the Chamber's roots can be traced to the Merchants Council, established in 1910 during the reign of the late Sheikh Isa bin Ali Al Khalifa. The council marked the beginning of organised commercial representation in Bahrain, serving as the foundation for the Chamber's development.
As Bahrain's commercial activity expanded, the organisation evolved over the years. In 1939, the Merchants Council became the General Bahrain Merchants Association, before later being renamed the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce. A major milestone followed in 1967 with the adoption of a new charter and the establishment of the Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI), reflecting the growing scope of Bahrain's economy and the Chamber's responsibilities.
Kanoo said this continuous transformation reflects the contribution of generations of Bahraini merchants and business leaders who helped build an institution that has grown alongside the Kingdom's economic progress.
He described the reign of His Majesty King Hamad as a defining chapter in the Chamber's history, marked by economic reforms, legislative development and major improvements to Bahrain's business environment. He noted that these reforms strengthened the role of the private sector as a key partner in national development.
Among the most significant milestones, Kanoo highlighted the issuance of Decree-Law No. 48 of 2012, which established a comprehensive legal framework governing the Chamber's objectives, powers and responsibilities. He said the legislation reinforced the Chamber's role in representing the private sector and contributing to discussions on economic policies and legislation.
Kanoo stressed that throughout its history, the Chamber has remained a national partner in promoting economic growth, advocating for the business community, supporting investment-friendly legislation and strengthening cooperation between the public and private sectors.
He also noted that during His Majesty's reign, the Chamber relocated to its current headquarters, Bait Al Tijjar (House of Merchants), providing a modern base that reflects its expanding role and services. The Chamber has also increased its involvement in discussions on economic policy, labour market reforms, education and training, and broader business environment initiatives.
Kanoo said His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa has placed the private sector at the centre of Bahrain's development agenda by strengthening cooperation between the government and the business community. This, he said, has enabled the Chamber to play a more active role in shaping economic priorities, conveying the views of business owners and supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing Bahrain's competitiveness.
Looking ahead, Kanoo said the Chamber's Board of Directors will continue building on the legacy established by previous generations of Bahraini merchants by modernising its services, strengthening engagement with businesses and expanding communication with stakeholders. These efforts, he said, will support the evolving needs of the private sector and reinforce Bahrain's position as a regional hub for business and investment.
Concluding his remarks, Kanoo said commemorating the Chamber's founding is both a tribute to the generations of Bahraini merchants who helped shape its history and a renewed commitment to continuing its role as the voice of the private sector in support of Bahrain's ongoing economic development.
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