Gateway Gulf 2026 expects to attract more than $20 billion in investments through over 110 agreements. Bahrain’s Finance Minister Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa announced the figures during the forum’s opening in Manama. He said participants expect to sign the agreements over two days, bringing new projects, investment opportunities and employment.
The minister described Bahrain as an important gateway to the Gulf’s economic future. He also highlighted the region’s resilience amid recent security challenges and unprecedented attacks. Despite these pressures, he said Gulf countries remain committed to protecting their achievements and strengthening international partnerships.
Shaikh Salman stressed that regional governments intend to continue working with allies and partners. Their cooperation, he explained, will help protect existing progress and support future generations. His remarks placed economic development alongside regional stability as key priorities for the Gulf.
He also highlighted the scale of the region’s economy and investment resources. Gulf economies collectively generate approximately $2.4 trillion in gross domestic product. Furthermore, non-oil industries account for more than 86 percent of Bahrain’s economy. Across the wider Gulf region, those sectors contribute over 77 percent of economic activity.
The minister also pointed to the financial strength of Gulf sovereign wealth funds. These funds collectively manage investments worth more than $5 trillion. Consequently, the region offers substantial financial resources for projects across multiple industries.
During his address, Shaikh Salman outlined three priorities that guide Bahrain’s approach to attracting investors. He identified regulation, infrastructure and human capital as essential elements. Together, these areas help create conditions that encourage businesses to establish and expand operations.
First, Bahrain aims to provide clear, modern regulations and efficient procedures. The minister said investors need a reliable framework before committing significant capital. Therefore, regulatory clarity remains central to the country’s investment strategy.
Second, infrastructure plays an important role in supporting business growth. Bahrain continues to focus on logistics, connectivity, digital networks and industrial zones. These facilities can help companies operate efficiently and access regional and international markets.
Third, the minister emphasized the importance of developing skilled and capable people. He said talent should have opportunities to advance through ability and professional development. Accordingly, continued investment in people forms another important part of Bahrain’s economic priorities.
These priorities support investment across several sectors, including finance, logistics and tourism. Manufacturing, technology, oil and gas also feature among the industries expected to attract capital. Moreover, the minister highlighted opportunities for domestic, regional and international investors.
Shaikh Salman expressed optimism about the announcements expected during the forum. He noted that Gateway Gulf has expanded over the years and continues to attract influential participants. He also emphasized that attendees can directly contribute to the event’s outcomes.
The Gateway Gulf forum provides Bahrain with an opportunity to present its investment environment. The expected agreements could introduce new projects and create employment opportunities across different industries. However, the final value and details will become clearer as participants announce individual deals.
With more than 110 agreements anticipated, Gateway Gulf aims to strengthen Bahrain’s position as an investment destination. The forum also highlights the wider Gulf economy’s efforts to diversify and attract international capital.
