Bahrain is accelerating its transformation into a regional and international aviation and logistics hub as it continues to expand its network of air services agreements with friendly countries.
This vision was underscored during the Shura Council’s unanimous approval of a draft law ratifying the air services agreement between Bahrain and the Kyrgyz Republic.
Transportation and Telecommunications Minister Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa said expanding aviation agreements is central to Bahrain’s long-term connectivity and logistics strategy.
“This agreement connects Bahrain with the world,” he said.
“The more aviation agreements we have with friendly countries, the more we strengthen Bahrain International Airport’s role – whether for passengers or cargo – in a larger and more comprehensive network.”
He explained that the agreement with Kyrgyzstan came at the request of the Kyrgyz side in 2021, with all formal procedures now completed, as part of Bahrain’s ongoing efforts to widen its international aviation footprint.
Dr Shaikh Abdulla stressed that the strategy goes beyond supporting the national carrier, Gulf Air, noting that Bahrain has positioned itself as a home base for major global cargo operators.
“We are not signing agreements only for Gulf Air, which does not cover all destinations or routes, despite its strategic growth plans,” he said.
“There are many cargo companies that have chosen Bahrain as their base, including DHL, the largest logistics company in the world, which is set to establish its biggest maintenance hangar here.”
He added that such agreements directly support the surge in cargo activity witnessed in recent years.
“Cargo volumes have reached unprecedented levels as more international companies operate from Bahrain,” he said. “Our goal is to develop the infrastructure of Bahrain International Airport and also expand our international network as we progress in the passengers and cargo sector.”
Presenting the report of the Shura Council’s foreign affairs, defence and national security committee, rapporteur Nancy Khedouri said the agreement reflects Bahrain’s commitment to strengthening relations in the aviation sector.
She explained that the agreement establishes a competitive international air transport framework between Bahrain and Kyrgyzstan, facilitates the expansion of air services, enhances service options and pricing competitiveness and ensures the highest standards of aviation safety and security.
Ms Khedouri noted that the agreement follows bilateral models approved by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), and is fully aligned with global standards on aviation safety, security, operational procedures and the mutual recognition of licences and certificates.
She said the agreement is expected to enhance the role of the national carrier, open wider investment opportunities, support logistics-related services and boost the competitiveness of Bahrain’s civil aviation sector, thereby stimulating trade and investment between the two countries.
Shura Council human rights committee chairman Dr Mohammed Al Khozai described the agreement as one of the standard aviation treaties Bahrain has concluded under the Chicago Convention, enabling expanded passenger, cargo and mail transport services.
Committee chairman Dr Ali Al Rumaihi said the deal forms part of Bahrain’s broader strategy to develop the air services sector, strengthen infrastructure and enhance the investment environment, stressing that it carries no financial obligations and requires ongoing follow-up to ensure effective implementation.
Following its unanimous approval, the draft law was referred to His Majesty King Hamad for ratification.
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