India's view of the world · A factual referenceLast updated 12 May 2026 · Edition 04
COUNTRY RELATIONSHIP · BAHRAIN
India & Bahrain
LARGE INDIAN DIASPORAENERGY PARTNERSTRATEGIC PARTNERFINANCIAL CENTRE
India and Bahrain share a deep and multidimensional relationship anchored by the large Indian diaspora (~350,000, making Indians Bahrain's largest expatriate community), significant energy trade, and growing strategic cooperation. Diplomatic relations were established in 1971 when Bahrain became independent. Both countries elevated the relationship to a Strategic Partnership in 2019, and Bahrain has been a consistent supporter of India's interests in the Gulf Cooperation Council framework.
COOPERATION AREAS
Where India and Bahrain actually work together
4 active areas of cooperation, as of July 2026. Click any card for the full brief.
TRADE & INVESTMENT
By the numbers
Approximate figures supplemented by significant diaspora remittances. Source: MEA bilateral brief.
~$2bn
Total bilateral trade in goods
$0.6bn
India exports to country
$1.4bn
India imports from country
Trade trajectory · USD bn
$2bnin 2023 · click a bar to compare years
TOP TRADED ITEMS
AGREEMENTS & MILESTONES
The relationship since 1971, in 5 dates
CURRENT STATE
Where things stand, 2026
India-Bahrain relations are warm and multidimensional, anchored by the large Indian diaspora, energy trade, and a Strategic Partnership. UPI deployment and financial services cooperation are the newest growth frontier. Defence cooperation under the 2019 MoU is being operationalised. Diaspora welfare remains the most sensitive ongoing bilateral concern.
SIGNALS TO WATCH
On track / positive momentum
In progress / worth watching
Stalled or facing headwinds
Not yet started / unclear
QUICK FACTS
CapitalManama
Population1.5 million
RegionWest Asia
Diplomatic tiesSince 1971
Indian diaspora~350,000
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