Bahrain’s drive to strengthen food security and build a more resilient local supply chain has put the spotlight on home-grown producers such as Awal Dairy, with the Northern Municipal Council visiting the kingdom’s pioneering dairy company to explore its role in supporting local production.
The visit highlighted how investment in Bahraini food manufacturing, local sourcing and established national companies can help strengthen the kingdom’s food security while creating opportunities for farmers, businesses and the wider economy.
Northern Municipal Council chairman Dr Sayed Shubbar Al Wedaie, area councillor Tariq Al Farasani and a number of council employees toured Awal Dairy’s facilities in Al Hajar, gaining first-hand insight into its production operations, technology, products and working practices.
Established in 1963 as the Bahrain Danish Dairy Company, Awal Dairy was Bahrain’s first dairy producer and has evolved over more than six decades into a recognised regional household name, with dairy, juice and ice cream products marketed under the Awal, Noor and Fabion brands.
The company’s long history also includes several milestones in food manufacturing. In 1992, it became the first dairy producer in the region to adopt aseptic ultra-high-temperature (UHT) technology, marking a major technological step for the sector.
Dr Al Wedaie said supporting established national companies was an important part of efforts to strengthen Bahrain’s economy and food security.
“Food security is not only about having products available on our shelves; it is also about having strong local production capabilities, experienced companies and resilient supply chains,” he said.
“Awal Dairy is an excellent example of a Bahraini company that has continued to develop, innovate and serve the community for more than six decades. We were pleased to see first-hand the efforts being made to maintain high standards and support the local food industry.”
He said the council’s visit reflected its commitment to building stronger links with national institutions and companies.
“We want to strengthen communication with our national companies, understand the challenges they face and exchange knowledge and experience. Such co-operation can contribute to economic development, community partnerships and Bahrain’s sustainable development goals,” Dr Al Wedaie added.
Mr Al Farasani said Awal Dairy’s story demonstrated the value of supporting Bahraini businesses with deep roots in the local economy.
“Awal Dairy is part of Bahrain’s food and industrial heritage, but it is also a living example of how local production can evolve with changing technology and market demands,” he said.
“Supporting companies that contribute to local food production means supporting the wider food security chain, from farmers and suppliers to manufacturers, retailers and consumers.”
He added that greater co-operation between local authorities and the private sector could help identify new opportunities for growth.
During the tour, the delegation was briefed on the various stages of dairy production and manufacturing, the systems governing operations and the range of products and services offered by the company.
Awal Dairy’s expansion into Kuwait and other Gulf markets during the 1990s further strengthened its regional presence, while its continued focus on local sourcing has helped support Bahraini farmers and the national food supply chain.
The council said the visit was part of its efforts to strengthen engagement with national institutions and businesses, exchange expertise and gain a closer understanding of economic activities in the Northern Governorate.
“As Bahrain continues to focus on food security and greater resilience in essential supply chains, Awal Dairy’s journey from a pioneering local producer in 1963 to a regional brand offers a reminder that food security begins at home – and grows through local production, innovation and investment,” the council pointed out in a communiqué distributed during the visit.
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