Bahrains

Bahrains are the residents or citizens of Bahrain, an island nation in the Persian Gulf. The country consists of Bahrain Island and numerous smaller islands, connected to Saudi Arabia by the King Fahd Causeway, and lies near the eastern coast of Saudi Arabia. The capital is Manama.

The population includes Bahraini citizens and a large expatriate workforce from Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The citizen population is diverse with Arab, Persian, and other backgrounds; Muslims form the majority, with Shia and Sunni communities, along with smaller numbers of Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and other faiths. Official language is Arabic; English is widely used in business and education.

Government is a constitutional monarchy. The king is head of state, and a prime minister leads the executive branch. The legislature is bicameral, consisting of the elected Council of Representatives and the appointed Shura Council. The country has a mixed legal system influenced by Islamic law and civil law.

Economy and culture: The economy is diversified, with finance, manufacturing, and services playing major roles; oil resources exist but are less dominant than in neighboring countries. The Bahraini dinar (BHD) is the currency. Cultural life emphasizes both traditional Arab and Gulf customs and a modern urban scene in Manama, including the Bahrain Fort, museums, markets, and annual festivals.