bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 UK IN BAHRAIN 21 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. Scan to watch the video
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