Bahrain Attracts Investment In Health and Medicine

Bahrain already boasts a modern, technologically advanced and comprehensive healthcare system and the US Bahrain Free Trade Agreement will open further opportunities for the health and medical services industry. The Bahraini government is committed to attracting foreign investment in this expanding sector.

Dr. Nada Haffadh, the Minister of Health and the first Bahraini woman to hold ministerial rank, recently noted, “All health laws are now being reviewed to attract the private sector in Bahrain and abroad to invest in Bahrain’s health services. Some of Bahrain's rules are very stringent, and efforts are now underway to make the rules more investment-friendly.” Despite the effort to expand, the government will remain committed to the highest standards for both Bahraini and international companies. Dr. Haffadh reasserted, “While granting license to more private hospitals and alternative medicine therapy centers, the Health Ministry, as a regulator of these services, will always monitor their standards."

Image: Joslin Diabetes Center in Manama (Joslin Diabetes Center, a non-profit institution affiliated with Harvard Medical School)

His Highness, Prime Minister Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, recently weighed-in that the government encourages the expansion of the private medical sector through the opening of new hospitals and clinics. He also confirmed that the government was determined to develop the health sector and upgrade services offered, urging all ministry staff to maintain the superb quality of their services.

The effort to expand foreign investment comes in response to changing demographics in Bahrain. In government projections, the proportion of the population 65 years or older will increase from 2.2% today to more than 6.5% by 2020. The Bahrain government recognizes that action must be taken now to address the increased demand on health resources. The Ministry is seeking alternative health care financing to be achieved by inviting the private sector to increase its investment in health services and development. Both channels are open to direct investment, possible joint ventures, and the importation of US products and services to Bahrain.

There exist currently opportunities for:

• Hospitals
• Children’s Hospitals
• Pharmaceuticals
• Medical device manufacturers
• Health Insurance
• Medical & Health Human Resources