The National Flag of Bahrain
The national flag of Bahrain is a symbol of national pride and heritage, recognized as a significant emblem of the Kingdom of Bahrain. The flag consists of a white band on the hoist side, separated from a red field on the fly side by five white triangles that form a serrated line. Each element of the flag carries deep meaning, reflecting the history and values of Bahrain.
Table of Contents
Bahrain Flag Clip Art Images, Backgrounds, and Wallpapers
Free Download of the Bahrain Flag Image
To download an image of the Bahrain flag, right-click on the image and select “Save image as…” on a desktop or laptop. On a mobile device, press and hold on the image, then select “Download image” or “Save image” from the options that appear.
For Apple (iPhone/iPad):
- Press and hold the image.
- A menu will appear; tap “Add to Photos” or “Save Image.”
For Android:
- Press and hold the image.
- From the menu that appears, choose “Download image” or “Save image.”
This will save the image to your device’s photo gallery or downloads folder.
Design and Colors of the Bahrain Flag
The Bahrain flag features a design that is rich in symbolism and meaning:
- Red Field: The red color represents the Kharijite sect of Islam and was traditionally used by the flags of Gulf states.
- White Band: The white band symbolizes peace, contrasting with the red field.
- Serrated Line: The five white triangles forming the serrated line represent the Five Pillars of Islam, which are fundamental to the Islamic faith.
- Red: (#CE1126) Signifies courage, bravery, and the sacrifices made to protect the nation.
- White: (#FFFFFF) Symbolizes peace and purity, reflecting the nation’s aspirations and ideals.
The Origins and Design of the Bahrain Flag
The flag of Bahrain has a rich history that reflects the nation’s journey and cultural heritage. The design of the flag has evolved over time, with the current version being adopted on February 14, 2002. The Bahrain flag is a symbol of the nation’s ideals and serves as a constant reminder of the values it upholds.
The Birth of a National Symbol
Historically, Bahrain’s flag was plain red, a common color among flags of Gulf states. In 1820, after signing a treaty with the United Kingdom, a white stripe was added to signify the truce. The serrated line was later introduced to differentiate Bahrain’s flag from others, and in 2002, the number of points on the serrated edge was fixed at five to represent the Five Pillars of Islam.
Evolution of the Flag’s Symbolism
The symbolism of the Bahrain flag has evolved alongside the nation. The colors and design elements are rich in meaning:
- Red: Represents the Kharijite sect and the battles fought in the nation’s history.
- White: Symbolizes peace, marking the treaties and peaceful relations Bahrain has upheld.
- Serrated Edge: The five points represent the Five Pillars of Islam: declaration of faith, prayer, almsgiving, fasting during Ramadan, and pilgrimage to Mecca.
The Central Design Elements
The central design elements of the Bahrain flag include the colors and the serrated line:
- Red Field: Dominates the flag, representing courage and the nation’s history.
- White Band with Serrated Edge: The serrated edge with five points symbolizes the Five Pillars of Islam and differentiates the flag from similar ones.
Adoption and Official Recognition
The current design of the Bahrain flag was officially adopted on February 14, 2002. The standardization fixed the number of white points to five, aligning with the significance of the Five Pillars of Islam. This change reinforced the national identity and the importance of Islamic faith in Bahrain’s culture.
The Flag in Modern Bahraini Identity
Today, the Bahrain flag is a powerful symbol of national pride and unity. It is prominently displayed during national holidays, such as National Day on December 16, and other significant events. The flag is also honored in schools, government institutions, and by Bahrainis living abroad, serving as a reminder of the nation’s history, cultural heritage, and commitment to its values.
The Significance of the Bahrain Flag
The flag of Bahrain holds a deep and significant place in the hearts of its people, symbolizing the rich history, culture, and unity of the nation. Displaying the Bahrain flag is an act of patriotism and respect, and it is done according to specific rules and on designated days that hold special meaning for the country.
When the Flag of Bahrain Can Be Displayed
The flag of Bahrain may be displayed on any day, but there are specific guidelines for when and how it should be presented. The flag should always be treated with the utmost respect, never touching the ground, and should be handled with care. It can be flown on public buildings, in schools, at government institutions, and during official ceremonies. Citizens are also encouraged to display the flag at their homes during national holidays and important commemorations.
Flag Days and National Holidays
In Bahrain, there are several official flag days and national holidays when the flag is prominently displayed:
- December 16 – National Day: This day commemorates Bahrain’s declaration of independence and the accession of the late Amir, Shaikh Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa. Celebrations include parades, fireworks, and patriotic displays nationwide.
- December 17 – Accession Day: Marks the anniversary of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa’s accession to the throne.
Love for the Flag and Patriotism
The Bahrain flag is not just a national symbol; it is a representation of the pride and love that Bahrainis have for their country. The flag’s design—a red field with a white serrated band—embodies the nation’s history, unity, and enduring spirit. Bahrainis demonstrate their love for the flag and their patriotism in various ways. During national holidays, particularly on National Day, the flag is everywhere—from homes and public spaces to clothing and decorations. Schools instill a sense of respect for the flag from a young age, often including flag ceremonies as part of the daily routine.
Bahrain Flag Emoji Codes
1. Unicode Code Points
- Unicode: U+1F1E7 U+1F1ED
- UTF-16: D83C DDE7 D83C DDED
2. HTML Entities
- HTML Entity (Decimal): 🇧🇭
- HTML Entity (Hexadecimal): 🇧🇭
3. CSS
content: "\1F1E7\1F1ED";
4. JavaScript (JSON) & Java
// JavaScript Example const bahrainFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDED";
// Java Example String bahrainFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDED";
5. PHP & Ruby
// PHP Example $bahrainFlag = "\u{1F1E7}\u{1F1ED}";
// Ruby Example bahrain_flag = "\u{1F1E7}\u{1F1ED}"
6. Perl
my $bahrainFlag = "\x{1F1E7}\x{1F1ED}";
7. Python
bahrain_flag = "\U0001F1E7\U0001F1ED"
8. C#
string bahrainFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDED";
9. Swift
let bahrainFlag = "\u{1F1E7}\u{1F1ED}"
10. Objective-C
NSString *bahrainFlag = @"\U0001F1E7\U0001F1ED";
11. JSON
{ "bahrainFlag": "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDED" }
12. SQL
INSERT INTO table_name (column_name) VALUES ('\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDED');
13. Shell Scripting (Bash)
bahrain_flag=$'\U1F1E7\U1F1ED'
14. Go (Golang)
bahrainFlag := "\U0001F1E7\U0001F1ED"
15. Kotlin
val bahrainFlag = "\uD83C\uDDE7\uD83C\uDDED"
About Bahrain
Geography and Topography
Location and Geography
Bahrain is an island nation in the Persian Gulf, situated to the east of Saudi Arabia and north of Qatar. The country’s geography includes:
- A small archipelago of 33 natural islands and several artificial islands
- The largest island, Bahrain Island, accounting for about 83% of the country’s landmass
- Desert plains and low-lying lands
- The highest point, Jabal ad Dukhan (Mountain of Smoke), at 134 meters above sea level
- Coastlines along the Persian Gulf
Bahrain Map
Area and Population
The Kingdom of Bahrain covers an area of approximately 780 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest countries in Asia. As of 2021, the population is estimated to be around 1.7 million people.
Demographics and Ethnic Composition
Bahrain has a diverse population comprising both Bahraini nationals and expatriates. The ethnic composition includes:
- Bahraini nationals: approximately 46% of the population
- Expatriates: around 54%, including people from South Asia, other Arab countries, Southeast Asia, and Western countries
Name and History
Origin of the Name “Bahrain”
The name “Bahrain” comes from the Arabic term “al-Bahrayn,” which means “the two seas.” This name reflects the country’s geographical position between the two seas of the Gulf of Bahrain and the Persian Gulf.
History
Bahrain’s history is rich and dates back thousands of years to the ancient Dilmun civilization. Key historical events include:
- Ancient Dilmun civilization, an important trade center linking Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley
- Portuguese rule during the 16th century
- The rise of the Al Khalifa family in the late 18th century
- Becoming a British protectorate in the 19th century
- Gaining independence from Britain on August 15, 1971
- Discovery of oil in 1932, the first among Gulf states
- Transition to a constitutional monarchy in 2002
Government and Politics
Capital
Manama is the capital of Bahrain. As the largest city, it is the political and economic center of the country, hosting important institutions like the Bahrain World Trade Center and the Bahrain Financial Harbour.
Government and Politics
Bahrain operates as a constitutional monarchy under the rule of the Al Khalifa family. The government consists of:
- The King, who is the head of state
- A bicameral parliament, including:
- The Shura Council (upper house), whose 40 members are appointed by the King
- The Council of Representatives (lower house), whose 40 members are elected by the people
- An appointed Prime Minister, who heads the government
Values and Culture
Core values in Bahrain include a blend of traditional Islamic culture and modernity. The country is known for:
- Religious tolerance and coexistence
- Emphasis on education and economic diversification
- A progressive approach to women’s rights in the region
- Preservation of cultural heritage alongside modernization
Religion
Islam is the official religion of Bahrain, practiced by about 70% of the population. The religious composition includes:
- Shia Muslims: approximately 70% of Bahraini citizens
- Sunni Muslims: around 30% of Bahraini citizens, including the ruling family
- Other religions: practiced by expatriate communities, including Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism
Holidays
Major public holidays in Bahrain include:
- National Day on December 16
- Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan
- Eid al-Adha, commemorating the willingness of Ibrahim to sacrifice his son
- Islamic New Year
- Ashura, particularly significant for the Shia community
Demographics and Society
Language
The official language of Bahrain is Arabic. English is also widely spoken and is commonly used in business, education, and for daily communication among expatriate communities.
Society and Sports
Bahrain has a socially diverse population, with a mix of Bahraini nationals and expatriates from around the world. Sports and recreation play an important role in society. Popular sports include:
- Football (soccer): The most popular sport among locals
- Cricket: Popular among South Asian expatriates
- Formula One Racing: Bahrain hosts the annual Bahrain Grand Prix, the first Formula One race in the Middle East
Safety
Bahrain is generally considered safe for residents and tourists. The government maintains strict security measures to ensure public safety. Travelers are advised to stay informed about local conditions, especially during times of political activity.
Economy and Currency
Economy
Bahrain has a diversified economy compared to its Gulf neighbors. Key economic sectors include:
- Financial services, including banking and insurance
- Oil and gas production, although reserves are relatively limited
- Aluminum production, with Aluminium Bahrain (Alba) being one of the largest smelters in the world
- Tourism, focusing on cultural heritage and events like the Formula One Grand Prix
Currency
The official currency of Bahrain is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD), symbolized by “BD” and subdivided into 1,000 fils. The Bahraini Dinar is one of the highest-valued currency units in the world.
Culture and Arts
Culture and Arts
Bahraini culture is a blend of ancient traditions and modern influences. The country is known for:
- Traditional music and dance: Including Fidjeri, performed by pearl divers
- Arts and crafts: Pottery, weaving, and boat building
- Museums and heritage sites: Such as the Bahrain National Museum and the UNESCO-listed Pearling Trail
- Contemporary art: Growing scene with galleries and art festivals
Cuisine
Bahraini cuisine reflects its multicultural heritage. Key elements include:
- Machboos: A spiced rice dish with meat or fish, similar to biryani
- Muhammar: Sweet rice served with dates or sugar
- Seafood: Including grilled fish and shrimp, reflecting the island’s fishing traditions
- Traditional sweets: Such as halwa Bahraini
National Anthem
The national anthem of Bahrain, “Bahrainona” (“Our Bahrain”), was adopted upon the country’s independence in 1971. The lyrics were modified in 2002 to reflect Bahrain’s new status as a kingdom.
Infrastructure and Transportation
Transportation
Bahrain boasts a modern transportation infrastructure, including:
- Road Network: Well-maintained highways connecting cities and towns
- King Fahd Causeway: A 25 km bridge connecting Bahrain to Saudi Arabia
- Bahrain International Airport: Located in Muharraq, serving as a regional hub
- Public Transportation: Includes buses and taxis; plans for a metro system are underway
Time Zones
Bahrain operates on Arabian Standard Time (AST), which is UTC+3.
Web and Phone Code
Bahrain’s internet country code is “.bh,” and its international dialing code is +973.
Bahrain: Things to See and Do
Bahrain is a country of rich history, modern attractions, and cultural diversity, offering visitors a range of experiences. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Bahrain:
Explore Historical Sites
- Bahrain Fort (Qal’at al-Bahrain): A UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to 2300 BC.
- Pearling Trail: A UNESCO-listed site showcasing Bahrain’s pearling history.
- Al Fateh Grand Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, open to visitors.
Enjoy Cultural Experiences
- Bahrain National Museum: Offers insights into the country’s history and culture.
- Manama Souq: Traditional market selling spices, textiles, and handicrafts.
- Bab Al Bahrain: Historic gateway and landmark in Manama.
Attend Events and Festivals
- Bahrain Formula One Grand Prix: Annual F1 race held at the Bahrain International Circuit.
- Spring of Culture Festival: Celebrates arts and culture with performances and exhibitions.
Relax on the Beaches
- Al Dar Islands: A popular getaway for beach activities and water sports.
- Amwaj Islands: Man-made islands with beaches, restaurants, and hotels.
Experience Wildlife and Nature
- Al Areen Wildlife Park: Conservation area housing Arabian wildlife.
- Tree of Life: A solitary tree in the desert over 400 years old.
Shopping and Entertainment
- The Avenues: Waterfront shopping mall with international brands.
- City Centre Bahrain: Large shopping and entertainment complex.
Indulge in Culinary Delights
- Traditional Bahraini Restaurants: Experience local cuisine at places like Haji Gahwa.
- International Dining: Wide range of international cuisines available.