In an exclusive interview with Kristian Harrison, British Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Alastair Long, reflects on two years in post, sharing insights into diplomacy, economic progress and cultural ties.

Two years into your posting, how would you describe the current state of UK-Bahrain relations?
The relationship remains in an incredibly strong place. We had a brilliant autumn of engagement, starting with His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Salman Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, visiting our Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Number 10 Downing Street. That was followed by a visit to Bahrain by our Foreign Secretary, a significant moment which underlined the depth of our ties.

In November, His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Majesty King Charles III came together for a fabulous dinner at Windsor Castle, in celebration of His Majesty King Hamad’s Silver Jubilee. Also in celebration of this occasion, the Duke of Edinburgh visited Bahrain during the Kingdom’s National Day celebrations. We also saw the UK join the Comprehensive Security Integration and Prosperity Agreement (C-SIPA) alongside Bahrain and the United States at the Manama Dialogue, marking a new era of trilateral cooperation. It has been an incredible sequence of high-level engagements. I like to think McLaren winning the Formula 1 Constructors’ Championship was another British-Bahraini achievement, combining excellence from both countries.

What personal or professional achievements over the past year are you most proud of?
I am particularly proud of the UK joining the C-SIPA agreement. It is a truly visionary instrument, created largely by Bahrain, which aims to bring together those committed to the rules-based international order. The UK cares deeply about supporting peace and security in this region, so it was a privilege to be invited to join by two of our closest partners. On a personal level, I find it very rewarding to be contributing to something with such a clear and important purpose.

You have delivered several speeches on Bahrain’s economy recently. How do you view its current state, and how is the UK supporting its diversification efforts?
There are many parallels between the UK and Bahrain as economies. Both are increasingly service-oriented, moving beyond hydrocarbons and embracing future industries such as digital technology. Bahrain has achieved remarkable success diversifying its economy, with financial services now making up the largest share of its GDP – mirroring the UK’s own structure. I am consistently impressed by the incredible Bahraini talent driving this transformation. The wider GCC region is growing rapidly, and Bahrain is well placed to benefit, with the region’s economy expected to double by 2050.

The UK shares a similar vision, with a renewed focus on investing in future industries, clean energy and technology.

How are British businesses responding to opportunities in Bahrain?
British businesses are increasingly recognising the opportunities here. We are seeing steady growth in investment and trade, and with the Free Trade Agreement between the UK and GCC edging ever closer to completion, that momentum should only increase. I believe the agreement will send a strong signal to businesses that the Gulf region is an open and attractive market. Beyond goods and services, we are also focusing heavily on investment partnerships – encouraging each side to take a real stake in the other’s economic future.

As a strong advocate for conservation and sustainability projects, have there been any tangible successes in these areas since your arrival?
Conservation remains a passion of mine and an exciting area of collaboration between the UK and Bahrain. One recent initiative involved bringing three British agritech companies to partner with Bahraini farmers.

Their innovations – including flexible solar panels for greenhouses, seed productivity enhancements and smart farming technologies – have already begun to bear fruit here. 
These projects are helping Bahrain’s agriculture sector become more sustainable while increasing yields. We are also working on marine conservation, including efforts to protect seagrass beds and measure carbon emissions from space. It is immensely satisfying to see high-end technology being applied to real-world environmental challenges.

Air connectivity was a hot topic last year. What are your reflections on the developments around Heathrow and Gatwick flights?
The past year saw some drama around the Heathrow route, but I am delighted that it was quickly resolved. British Airways continues to operate from Heathrow, and Gulf Air has expanded its services to include Gatwick and Manchester. Bahrain International Airport is world-class, and deserves to be a hub of regional and global traffic. It is not just the facilities, but the experience – I genuinely believe it is the most pleasant airport in the region. The new stained-glass installation by British artist Sir Brian Clarke at the airport also beautifully symbolises the strong ties between our countries.

How many British nationals are now living in Bahrain, and how has the community evolved?
The number of British nationals in Bahrain currently stands at around 5,000. That is slightly down from pre-COVID levels, but it remains a strong and vibrant community. British residents contribute enormously to Bahrain’s prosperity, culture and international profile. In addition, we are seeing a steady rise in British visitors, many experiencing Bahrain for the first time. 
The warmth of Bahraini hospitality often leaves a lasting impression, encouraging many to return.

Have you had a chance to engage with Bahrain’s musical or cultural scene, given your musical background?
It is an amusing story – before I arrived, there was a rumour that I played the oud! I do not – I am a trumpet player by training. That said, I have loved engaging with Bahrain’s musical community. I have attended concerts blending Western orchestral music with traditional Bahraini instruments, and we now regularly invite Bahraini musicians to perform at our events. 

If you were to host a British-Bahraini cultural evening, what elements would you include?
Rather than traditional choices, I would be tempted to spotlight new forms of creativity – animation, theatre, dance – where both Bahrain and Britain excel. Innovation in culture reflects the broader innovation in our relationship, and I believe supporting emerging artistic fields is a powerful way to deepen ties.

What are your priorities for the next two years?
While I would love to focus solely on trade and cultural relations, regional stability remains the critical preoccupation. Conflicts such as Gaza and the Red Sea disruption underline the need for durable peace. Bahrain’s leadership in promoting dialogue and cooperation, particularly through C-SIPA and the Arab League, is commendable. My team and I are committed to supporting these efforts, while also continuing to deepen economic, educational and cultural ties between the UK and Bahrain.

On a personal level, are there experiences in Bahrain you still hope to enjoy?
Embarrassingly, I still have not visited the Tree of Life! There are many corners of Bahrain I am yet to explore, and I also want to spend more time in majalis beyond Ramadan. Engaging in real conversations with Bahrainis is one of the most rewarding parts of my posting, and I intend to do much more of it in my remaining time here.

Finally, what message would you like to send to the British community in Bahrain?
Thank you for everything you do. Every British resident and visitor is an ambassador for our relationship, contributing daily to the strength and warmth of UK-Bahrain ties. Your efforts make a real and lasting difference.

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