4 Reasons why your business needs a corporate partner in Bahrain

The Kingdom is easier with a partner

Bahrain is, for many reasons, one of the most attractive countries to invest in, in the Middle East.

The reasons are varied, ranging from simple location-based advantages to the many initiatives and plans in action to grow and strengthen the country. Investors and businesses from all over the world are looking towards Bahrain as a perfect entry point into the growing economies of MENA.

The country offers many benefits to those who invest here, like the welcoming environment for expatriates and strong infrastructure to do business with its larger neighbouring countries. It is also an affordable option, while still offering much of the same benefits offered by its more well-known counterparts in the region like the UAE.

There are several industries that the country is actively promoting and encouraging investments in, like technology and tourism. The country’s Economic Development Board is also promoting investments in many sectors with benefits like full ownership and ease of doing business in Bahrain.

There are active plans in place to diversify the economy beyond oil with a dedicated plan with wider scope as part of its vision for the year 2030.

There has likely never been a better time to invest in this growing country.

Why do you need a local partner to do business in Bahrain?

Bahrain does allow for full foreign ownership in several industries. Unlike some other countries in the region where you are required to give up large parts of your ownership to local partners, in Bahrain, you can operate in several industries without the need for a local ownership partner.

Some of these industries that allow for full foreign ownership of companies are food, admin services, information and communications technology, water supply, real estate, manufacturing.

This allows you to maintain full control of your business and its operations.

However, it is still a fact that some industries will require you to have a local or at least a GCC national as a partner to conduct business in Bahrain. And more often than not, it would serve your business better to have a corporate partner that is based in the country, rather than an individual.

Even if you are in an industry that does not require a local partner, it’s still a good choice to have one.

A local corporate sponsor who understands the business environment in Bahrain will make operations much smoother for your business. And having this local sponsor be capable of providing any further service you need is a massive advantage.

Here are 4 reasons why you need a local corporate sponsor in Bahrain :

Stronger accountability from your local partner in Bahrain

It is always easier to deal with a company that has a strong presence than it is to do business with an individual.

Having a licensed local firm as your corporate sponsor and/or partner means it is easier to enforce accountability of their duties. Your focus should be on choosing the option that reduces roadblocks as much as possible, and going with a corporate sponsor is absolutely the best way to do it.

You have access to your partner’s network in Bahrain and the GCC

Your business will only be as big as the people you know. This is especially true in the Middle East where having a strong professional network of friends and acquaintances will be the difference-maker.

Having a local corporate partner who has a strong history of operating the country is ideal, as it would help get you access to their likely large networks.

Check for a company that has a history of working with other MNCs in the past. Having strong local connections must be a key factor as well.

Leveraging the network of your partner will help you achieve success in a significantly faster way.

A local sponsor in Bahrain might be able to do more for you

Choosing a local partner who can offer real value besides the partnership would be wise. Find a company that is licensed to provide any services that you may need.

Whether you are establishing a small new business or an extension of a large company, it is likely that you will need to outsource certain activities and/or obtain certain services from others.

Having a local partner that is capable of offering these services for you would be a distinct advantage. A firm that can offer trading or commercial services or even HR services would be ideal, as they can take care of several key matters since they will be more familiar with the nuances of the local market.

You are required to have a local sponsor by law

In some industries, you are still required to have a local partner to own a certain percentage of the business, to conduct activities in Bahrain.

If you are investing in one of those industries, it would be wise to go with a corporate partner who understands the complexities of such agreements. It would also make things easier for you if the local partner offers any services that your business might need.

A strong structure is key to ensure your business is able to function smoothly and with minimal trouble.

How can you start a new company in Bahrain?

Whether you are investing in industries where full foreign ownership is allowed (like IT) or otherwise, it would still serve you better to use the services of a local firm that can meet all your business needs.

Al Wasel has been sponsoring MNCs like Alghanim Industries, Gulf Dredging, HEISCO, and their ventures in Bahrain for over 3 decades. With a successful track record filled with business success and satisfied partners, we have the required pedigree to meet all your business needs in the Kingdom of Bahrain.

We aren’t merely a sponsor. We provide a wide range of services for your business or project in Bahrain, ranging from supplying the required human resources to trading and consulting.

We make things happen in Bahrain, and that’s why we have become the most Bahrain’s most trusted commercial services firm.