Heba Mohsen
The auto sector is one of the vital engines for the national economy in the Kingdom of Bahrain, as its impact is not limited to selling and selling vehicles only, but extends to include industrial value chains, logistical services, insurance, financing, and job providing, which contributes directly and indirectly to supporting sustainable economic development.
In light of Bahrain’s economic vision 2030, the sector emerged as a strategic element in economic diversification efforts, especially with the increasing trend towards electric vehicles and environmentally friendly technologies.
Thanks to the economic vision of Bahrain 2030, the sector has become more willing to receive digital and technological transformation, which enhances the Kingdom’s position as a regional center for luxury and sustainable transport.
The figures indicate that during the year 2024, the Kingdom of Bahrain imported about 35,873 cars with a value of 201.8 million dinars (535 million dollars), a noticeable increase over 2023.
It is expected that the total revenue of the passenger car market will reach $ 1.3 billion in 2025, with sales of approximately 36,000 cars
The figures confirm that the demand enhances the range and popularity enjoyed by large and luxurious cars, as the large car market alone is estimated at revenues of up to $ 93 million in 2025.
Economic growth engines for the auto sector
Practical opportunities and skills development:
– The sector provides thousands of job opportunities through car agents, service, shipping, financing and distribution centers, whether for Saudis or residents in the private sector.
Tamkeen programs and Bahnah initiatives support the employment of Bahraini citizens and their training in the auto sector and after -sales services.
Activating associated services:
Bank insurance and services (financing, rental).
Maintenance and cutting, and after -sales workshops.
– The fuel and utilities sector, especially with the transition to electric cars.
Logistics and transportation (taxis and delivery.
This system creates an economic value chain from importers to the final consumer.
The shift towards electric cars as a basic economic motivation:
Electric cars are the fastest growing in the Bahraini market, as they recorded 46.5% in the first quarter of 2025, although only 1.7% of total sales.
The Bahrain government is sponsoring several initiatives to support the electric car sector as follows:
– Reducing or exempting the import fees for electric cars.
Providing technical facilities for manufacturers and reducing customs laws.
– Cooperation between the public and private sectors to develop infrastructure, such as the installation of AC and DC charging stations in areas such as the sword and the city of Isa through the National Company BNET.
The impact of cars on the total economy and development:
The auto sector supports commercial growth by attracting global brands, reducing dependence on oil and raising Bahraini’s participation in the private sector, in addition to enhancing sustainable tourism and reducing emissions.
Passengers are a stable dynamic market in light of Bahrain’s economy based on diversity and commercial growth.
Some consumers indicate the high prices of used cars after the Korona pandemic, which increases the demand for new government -supported cars.
