Services and tourism drive Bahrain GDP in 2025

TDT | Manama

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Bahrain’s economy expanded by 3.5% in 2025 at constant prices, with non-oil sectors driving growth as services and tourism-related industries led the gains. Gross domestic product reached BD15.7 billion at constant prices and BD18.4 billion at current prices.

Non-oil activity grew 4.1% to BD13.5 billion at constant prices, accounting for 85.8% of total GDP, underscoring the kingdom’s continued shift away from hydrocarbons. Oil activity, by contrast, edged down 0.3% to BD2.2 billion.

Among the fastest-growing segments were professional, scientific and technical activities and accommodation and food services, each expanding 6.4% over the year. Together, the two sectors contributed 3.9% of non-oil GDP, worth BD612.3 million, and supported 105,100 private-sector jobs, including 12,600 held by Bahrainis.

Professional services led the growth table despite accounting for just 2.2% of non-oil GDP, or BD345.4 million. Expansion was driven by head office and management consultancy work, legal and accountancy services, as well as advertising and market research. The sector employed 37,500 people in the private sector, including 6,300 Bahrainis, with a median monthly wage of BD550 for nationals.

Accommodation and food services matched that pace, supported by stronger tourism performance. Overnight visitors rose 10.9% to 7.3 million, while tourist nights increased 5.2% to 20.2 million.

Average daily visitor spending climbed 5% to BD72.6, helping push inbound tourism receipts up 7.2% to BD2 billion. The sector accounted for 1.7% of non-oil GDP, valued at BD266.9 million. The accommodation and food segment employed 67,600 people in the private sector, including 6,300 Bahrainis, with a median monthly wage of BD350 for nationals.

Tourism momentum was further supported by new projects and partnerships during the year. Bahrain Marina Development signed a strategic agreement with NAD Holding Group to develop retail and restaurant space at Marina Walk within the Bahrain Marina project. Terminal 4 by Beyon was also announced at Exhibition World Bahrain, with capacity to host around 3,500 visitors for arts and entertainment events.

The latest figures highlight the growing role of non-oil sectors in sustaining Bahrain’s economic expansion, with services and tourism continuing to anchor growth.