Bahrain boasts a robust banking sector and is recognized as a key financial hub in the Middle East. Its economy is more diversified compared to many neighboring countries, with the Bahraini Dinar being one of the highest-valued currencies globally. The local payment infrastructure is well-developed, with all debit cards branded under the BENEFIT scheme, which supports both online and in-store transactions. The addition of BenefitPay, a digital wallet, further enhances Bahrain’s payment landscape.
Bahrain’s economic growth has been fueled by stronger exports to key markets like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, along with a rise in foreign direct investments, which reached USD 34.5 billion in 2022. The government’s Vision 2030 initiative, aimed at reducing dependence on oil and gas, is driving reforms to improve the business environment. Additionally, the USD 7.5 billion from the GCC Development Fund has been pivotal in supporting large-scale investments in the country.
Payment methods supported per country
Mobile payments
Bank account payments
Bank card payments
Cash payments
eWallets
Global & local card schemes & wallets
Digital wallets
Cards
Trade exchange
Export
of goods as a % of total
Saudi Arabia
17%
United Arab Emirates
10%
United States of America
6%
Europe
5%
Oman
4%
Import
of goods as a % of total
China
14%
Europe
12%
Brazil
11%
Australia
9%
United Arab Emirates
8%
UK exports to Bahrain
Total value: £295 million 0.09% of all UK exports
UK imports from Bahrain
Total value: £470 million 0.01% of all UK imports
Digital wallets transaction volume (Yearly growth 2021)