BAHRAINIS and expatriate residents have delivered a resounding vote of confidence in the kingdom’s leadership and economic trajectory, with the vast majority of the population believing the nation is on the “right track” despite heightened regional uncertainty.
A comprehensive new survey, conducted by international strategy firm Consulum in partnership with analytics firm HarrisX, has revealed that Bahrain’s domestic stability and long-term development goals remain unshaken by external volatility.
The study, which surveyed 3,808 nationals and residents across Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, highlights a sense of resilient optimism within the kingdom.
The findings show that the public remains bullish on the government’s fiscal management and the nation’s future. Nearly eight in ten respondents believe that Bahrain is on the right track, while 76 per cent of those surveyed stated that the economy is moving in the right direction.
Furthermore, 78pc of respondents remain confident in the country’s economic outlook. Trust in the government’s diplomatic and security capabilities is also high, with 83pc of participants stating they trust the authorities to manage regional conflicts effectively. Additionally, 82pc expressed confidence in the ability of authorities to protect Bahrain from the consequences of regional instability.
While the poll acknowledged that foreign investment and the oil and gas sectors are perceived as the areas most vulnerable to prolonged disruption, the majority of respondents viewed current challenges as temporary. Most participants expect the economy to normalise within the next six to 12 months.
Significantly, the survey debunked the idea that regional tension would lead to a “pause” in national progress. Instead, six in ten respondents continue to support Bahrain’s long-term development agenda, asserting that national programmes should continue and have become even more important in the current environment.
James Davies, chief executive officer of Consulum, noted that the data suggests the public views economic reform and stability as interconnected priorities rather than competing ones.
“It is clear that near-term disruption has not dampened optimism for the country’s long-term outlook,” Mr Davies said.
The sectors identified as requiring the most support to navigate the current climate include oil and gas, tourism, and small businesses. While tourism was noted for its vulnerability to regional shifts, the consensus remains that the sector will recover within six months.
Ranulph Murray, head of Consulum Intelligence, added that the findings reflect a deep-seated trust in Bahrain’s institutions to charge ahead with the national agenda while successfully prioritising stability and economic recovery.
avinash@gdnmedia.bh
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