Bahrain, officially the Kingdom of Bahrain, is an island country in West Asia. It is situated on the Persian Gulf, and comprises a small archipelago made up of 50 natural islands and an additional 33 artificial islands, centered on Bahrain Island which makes up around 83 per cent of the country's landmass.
Bahrain is renowned for its verdant groves of date palms; since ancient times it has been an entrepôt for trade and a source of natural resources for the surrounding area. Bahrain Island is widely believed to be the site of the ancient kingdom of Dilmun, a commercial centre that traded with ancient Sumer.
Bahrain is a constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the king, and the head of government is the prime minister. The area has long been an important trading centre and is mentioned in Persian, Greek, and Roman references.
The island of Bahrain is renowned by the welcoming hearts of its population, a rich cultural and historical heritage, its economic diversity and endless opportunities. Lifestyle options are many and varied, and the country is known as one of the most forward-thinking and liberal in the Middle East.
The country has a well-developed education system that includes both public and private schools, as well as vocational and higher education institutions. Bahrain is also home to several international schools, providing options for expatriate and foreign students.
