Strengthening German-Bahraini Ties
by: BTM - Tue, 07 Oct 2025
As Bahrain and Germany continue to deepen their longstanding relationship, the arrival of His Excellency Henning Simon, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Germany to the Kingdom of Bahrain, marks an exciting new chapter. In this exclusive interview with Bahrain This Month, Ambassador Simon shares his first impressions of the Kingdom and his diplomatic priorities.
Excellency, congratulations on your appointment. What are your first impressions of Bahrain, and how do you envision your role in further strengthening German–Bahraini relations?
I arrived exactly two weeks ago and my first impressions are really great. I am overwhelmed by Bahraini hospitality, friendliness and openness. I have already been invited to several Bahraini families who informed me about Bahraini culture, the economy and business. We also shared food together, including Machboos and Halwa, which I enjoyed very much. I have already visited Qal’at al-Bahrain and Bab Al Bahrain and seen the richness of Bahraini culture. My role will be to further strengthen this relationship, building on the warmth I have already experienced.
What are the key priorities of your mission in Bahrain, both bilaterally and within the wider Gulf region?
I see myself as somebody who is building bridges between Bahrain and Germany in all fields. Politically, Germany has always been represented at a high level at the IISS Manama Dialogue and this year again a senior representative will attend. Bahraini politicians also frequently travel to Germany, participating in the Munich Security Conference and other events. Economically, I want to foster relations, supporting both large German companies already present and smaller ones like Delivery Hero, which operates Talabat here. Culturally, I want to promote language, art and music, and finally, people-to-people contact, which I believe is the most important bridge of all. Thanks to Gulf Air we now have 10 direct flights per week between Manama and Frankfurt or Munich, making these ties even closer.
How do you see opportunities for enhancing trade and investment between Bahrain and Germany?
Bahrain is truly a gateway to the Gulf region. Its infrastructure and legal conditions are very attractive, especially in sectors where German companies excel such as engineering, logistics and technology. Companies like DHL already have their regional headquarters here. When I landed at the airport, the first thing I saw was DHL, which made me proud. I believe there is still untapped potential in Bahrain. The embassy can play a mediating role, opening doors for German businesses and providing a platform for connections.
In your view, what advantages does Bahrain offer to German enterprises, and how might more German firms be encouraged to establish here?
Bahrain offers excellent infrastructure, low taxes and a well-skilled labour force. German business leaders have already told me they are impressed with the Bahraini education system and the availability of qualified staff. On top of that, Bahrain is an air and shipping hub, which is crucial for Germany as a trading nation. There is also huge potential in digitalisation, artificial intelligence and renewable energy. At the embassy we even charge our BMW using solar panels, which is possible here thanks to the 350 days of sunshine every year. Green energy is an area where Bahrain and Germany can naturally cooperate.
Are there plans to expand German language learning or academic cooperation with Bahraini institutions?
Definitely. We already work closely with the University of Bahrain, offering German language courses, but we want to expand. There is strong demand from students and professionals. With the Bahraini German Friendship Society we are preparing to open new language courses soon. This is important because Germany is an ageing society, and we are seeking skilled workers in healthcare, engineering and other sectors. Our new government has introduced a Blue Card system to attract qualified professionals, but language skills are essential. At the same time, many Bahraini students can also study in English in Germany, particularly in medicine, engineering and business. The German Academic Exchange Service provides scholarships to support them.
How can Germany, as a leader in advanced technologies, contribute to Bahrain’s innovative fintech industry?
Germany has strong experience in banking, insurance and reinsurance. Hannover Re, the third largest reinsurance company in the world, has a regional office here. We are ready to cooperate with Bahrain in areas such as fintech and especially cyber security, which is crucial for financial technology. This is an area where Germany can contribute expertise and collaborate with Bahrain’s ambitious plans.
What aspects of German culture would you most like to share with the Bahraini public during your tenure?
Of course we will bring classical German culture like Beethoven and Bach, but I also want to share contemporary culture, including young and innovative artists from Berlin and other regions. We will participate in local events such as the Spring Festival, Jazz Festival and Oktoberfest. Culture is about bringing people together, whether through serious art or lively festivals with music and social gatherings. We want Bahrainis to enjoy the full spectrum of German culture.
How do you see the Germany community in Bahrain’s contribution to strengthening ties between our two countries?
There are around 500 German citizens living in Bahrain, working in business, culture and other sectors. Many are married to Bahrainis, creating strong family links. Each of them is an ambassador in their own way. We are also promoting Germany as a tourist destination, with a roadshow in October to showcase Germany’s rich culture and landscapes. Germans here help to build a living bridge between the two countries.
Germany and the EU place strong emphasis on dialogue and cooperation with the Gulf. How does Bahrain fit into Germany’s broader regional strategy?
Bahrain is an anchor of stability in the region. Germany participates in EU missions to stabilise the Red Sea area and contributes to combined maritime forces headquartered here in Bahrain. German soldiers are part of these operations, protecting shipping routes which are vital for energy supplies to Europe. The German government considers Bahrain a strategic partner, and that is why we will continue to participate in the Manama Dialogue at the highest level.
On a personal note, what excites you most about living in Bahrain, and what experiences are you looking forward to exploring during your posting here?
What excites me most is Bahrain’s religious and ethnic diversity. People of different cultures and religions live together openly and equally, which is very inspiring. It shows real humanity, and Bahrainis live that authentically. I want to explore the country’s cultural heritage more deeply, including its museums and archaeological sites. I also look forward to sports – from Formula One to football and basketball. As a football fan, I would love to see a Bundesliga team play in Bahrain one day!
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