At our January 2026 meeting we focussed on Bahrain, a place we all know of, but know little about.

We started by listening to some traditional Bahraini folk music to get us into the zone. We learnt that this civilisation was active when the Greeks dominated the western world and it is believed that the Phoenicians were also in Bahrain.

It became a Muslim country after Mohammed sent an envoy to the island, and it was subsequently ruled by Arabs.

The Portuguese held the island from 1521 until 1602 when the Persians took over the island. In 1783 various Arab tribes captured Bahrain and installed Al Khalifa at its head and this family still rules Bahrain to this day.

Britain became involved with the island during the 19th Century and following several treaties it became a protectorate of the United Kingdom. In 1971, Bahrain was declared independent. Incidentally it was only in 1970 that Iran ceded its claim to the island.

Over the years Bahrain developed from a cotton producer to being a centre for pearl trading but in 1930’s oil was discovered and this changed Bahrain. When compared with other Middle Eastern countries its oil deposits are relatively small and so Bahrain has developed as a financial centre and a tourist destination.

We the. learnt about the Causeway to Saudi Arabia and also a little about the background of Gulf Air, both of which played a significant part in developing tourism in the country.

A video giving us insights into the old forts, the narrow streets and old buildings and souks was shown taking us around several of the towns on this small island. The video also included information about the local cuisine.

Coupled with this information one of our members, who lived in Bahrain recalled some of her experiences and we learnt that Bahrain is a safe and very friendly country. It is a very liberal country with alcohol freely available and many night clubs. Bahrain is well worth a visit.