The Minister of Transportation and Telecommunications of Bahrain has announced the launch of a new National Aviation Strategy covering the period 2026–2027, setting out policy and development measures for the civil aviation sector.
Speaking on 15 February 2026, Dr Shaikh Abdulla bin Ahmed Al Khalifa said the strategy is designed to support the continued development of aviation services and increase the sector’s contribution to the national economy. The plan is aligned with the objectives of the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030.
The strategy was prepared through coordination between government bodies and private sector stakeholders. The framework is based on cooperation across institutions and aims to connect regulatory, operational and infrastructure planning.
The strategy sets out clear goals, including the creation of an integrated aviation ecosystem aligned with international standards. It also includes plans related to the role of Bahrain International Airport in commercial and private aviation, as well as maintenance, repair and overhaul services and logistics activity.
Targets include increasing the number of connected air destinations from 66 to 100 by 2030, alongside projected economic and employment impacts.
Implementation is structured around three main areas: regulatory and governance measures linked to safety and compliance; operational service development to support aviation activity; and investment in infrastructure, environmental sustainability and workforce skills.
