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bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 FIRST WORD 5 George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman bahrainthismonth.com Arts | Culture | Motoring | Sports | Interviews | Lifestyle | Dining | Nightlife NOVEMBER 2026 | BD2 / SR20 YOUR GUIDE TO A GREAT WAY OF LIFE Since 1997 Issue 351 Special Feature: Italy in Bahrain www.womanthismonth.com Digital Edition November 2026 | Issue 280 Bahrain's Lifestyle Guide for HER BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES TOP NOMINEES REVEALED VOTE NOW! NOVEMBER 2026 Scan to signup to our monthly newsletter Copyright Reserved 2005-2026 The concept, content, style and design of this publication remain the exclusive property of Red House Marketing (Jersey) Ltd. and must not be reproduced in any form whatsoever without prior written permission. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this publication. However, Red House Marketing cannot accept legal responsibility for any error or omission. • Views expressed in this magazine by journalists and writers are not necessarily those of the publishers of Bahrain This Month. Licensed by the Ministry of Information Publication Code: TA001 ISBN 1 899 348 09 3 1 Year subscription Bahrain: BD24 Gulf and international subscriptions available on request. Printing Press: Union Press, Bahrain Published monthly by: Red House Marketing P.O. Box 20461, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: (+973) 17 813-777 Email: [email protected] www.bahrainthismonth.com Welcome to our November edition! With temperatures cooling and Bahrain’s events season gathering momentum, there is plenty to fill the diary. Our Italy in Bahrain supplement brings together diplomacy and personal stories, something that speaks closely to my heart. With an Italian grandmother and nearly half a century spent in Bahrain, the warmth between these two countries feels deeply personal to me. We are particularly grateful to feature the Ambassador of Italy to Bahrain, Andrea Catalano, and Bahrain’s Ambassador to Italy, Ausamah Alabsi, for their fascinating insights. The diplomatic conversation continues with German Ambassador Henning Simon, who reflects on his first year and ambitions for closer cooperation. Meanwhile, the Republic of Korea’s Ambassador, Choi Byoung-sun, marks 50 years of diplomatic relations with Bahrain, looking at shared achievements and the possibilities ahead. Our Luxury feature explores the pleasures of collecting and the appeal of exceptional design. We visit the RAK Art Foundation and look ahead to the second Royal Bahrain Concours, with chairman James Brooks-Ward sharing what visitors can expect. Meanwhile, our fine dining selection offers inspiration for a memorable evening together. There is more to add to the calendar as BNP Paribas Bahrain Jazz Fest prepares for its 10th edition on December 4 at the Royal Golf Club. Elsewhere, we discover the community behind Not A Cult Run Club and Amna Syed tells all about her wonderful trip to Armenia’s Dilijan. Health remains firmly in focus. Movember provides a timely prompt for men to speak openly about their wellbeing, with American Mission Hospital encouraging them to make time for a check-up. We also revisit October’s breast cancer awareness efforts, including our hugely successful second United in Pink event, attended by more than 500 people. In Woman This Month, the Woman of the Year Awards 2026 enter their next stage following more than 735 nominations. In this issue, we introduce the top three nominees in each award category, and now it’s your turn to help decide the winners. Voting runs from November 1–30 at womanoftheyearawards.com, so get to know the shortlisted women and support those whose achievements inspire you. We also look forward to welcoming you to the Grand Finale on December 2 at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa. Book your tickets at bahrainthismonth.com/events and join us as we celebrate this year’s winners. Elsewhere in this issue, interviews with Dr. Maha Al Sindi and Dr. Noof Al Shaibani examine personalised cancer treatment and advances in breast cancer care, while In Her Shoes introduces Aqua Vista Bahrain’s Commercial Director, Dilara Yurdakul. As ever, Bahrain This Month remains your Guide to a Great Way of Life. Stay connected with us in print, online at www.bahrainthismonth.com, and on social media @bahrainthismonth for the latest updates, news and features. Warmest regards, George F. Middleton Publisher and Chairman George F. Middleton Editorial Director Kristian Harrison Assistant Editor Shruti Ramesh Contributors Bill Grieve, Fifi Kiwan, Dr. Jarmo Kotilaine, Pria Masson, Hasham Baig Designers Deson Cunado Shahid John Photographer & Bystander Layout Editor Subeesh Kumar N S Bystander Production Sabu Sebastian Creative Partnerships Director Amna Syed ([email protected]) Social Content & Communication Executives Shannan Peter Vaz Virginia Rodrigues Distributor Al Hilal Group (Hilal Direct Services) THE TEAM Webmaster Nishad Eapen Videography Sathesh Baby Administration & Finance Samson Vaz Marlyn Ragasa Distribution Team CM Abdul Rahman Gopal Arul Kumar BTM Cover: Courtesy: RAK Foundation WTM Cover: Top Nominees Revealed
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 CONTENTS 6 A beautifully crafted jewel, an exceptional home, a treasured motor car or a memorable meal: luxury takes many forms. In Bahrain, the coming weeks bring several of them together, with a calendar that puts craftsmanship, design and distinctive experiences firmly in the spotlight. The Luxury of Art Bahrain’s RAK Art Foundation offers a personal perspective on art and collecting, revealing how heritage, craftsmanship and cultural patronage shape a distinctive experience of luxury. A Royal Showcase The Royal Bahrain Concours returns for its second edition with an expanded competition programme celebrating the diversity of automotive culture across the GCC and beyond. Motoring’s Royal Return Royal Bahrain Concours Chairman James Brooks-Ward reflects on its successful debut and reveals the cars, experiences and ambitions shaping this year’s celebration of motoring excellence. Dinner, Darling? Romance has its reservations, and these are worth making. From the skyline views of a celebrity-chef steakhouse to Venetian plates served by the sea, Bahrain’s standout restaurants offer an indulgent setting for your next date night. 57 LUXURY CONTE A Life Building Bridges Italian Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Andrea Catalano, discusses diplomatic ties, cultural connections and the people shaping a partnership that spans education, sport, business and an appreciation of beauty. From Friendship to Investment Bahrain’s Ambassador to Italy, His Excellency Ausamah Alabsi, discusses growing economic ties, Italian hospitality and the lasting partnerships he hopes will benefit both countries for years. A Portrait of Friendship Ghada Khunji opens up about her friendship with His Excellency Andrea Catalano, Ambassador of Italy to the Kingdom of Bahrain, exploring how photography, cultural exchange and shared humanity bring the two nations closer. Under Two Suns With designs conceived in Bahrain and frames handcrafted in Italy, SUN SUNS is making its mark in luxury eyewear. Founder Sana Sultan shares the story behind a brand whose journey has taken it from Italian workshops to the runways of Milan and Paris. A Stronger German Connection His Excellency Henning Simon, Ambassador of Germany to Bahrain, discusses growing trade, a challenging first year, technological cooperation and his ambition to bring Bahrain and Germany closer through their people. Five Decades of Friendship His Excellency Choi Byoung-sun, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, marks 50 years of diplomatic relations with Bahrain, discussing shared achievements and his ambitions for closer economic, technological and cultural ties in the Golden Jubilee year and beyond. 42 INTERVIEWS All That Jazz BNP Paribas Bahrain Jazz Fest marks its 10th edition on December 4 at the Royal Golf Club, with a line-up spanning Memphis blues, Caribbean steelpan, Arabic soul and New Orleans swing. A Close Shave The moustaches are back, bringing men’s health into focus. This Movember, American Mission Hospital encourages men to make time for a checkup and speak openly about concerns they may have been putting off. Destination Dilijan BTM’s Amna Syed attended the Tourism Regional Forum in Dilijan, finding out more about the town’s future and opportunities to strengthen tourism and investment ties between Armenia and the Gulf. Hitting Their Stride Not A Cult Run Club co-founders Kristina Mari Jozefiák and Zsolt Jozefiák share how a love of movement built a community that keeps Bahrain’s runners and walkers lacing up week after week. LIFESTYLE 88 bahrainthismonth.com ain ITALY IN BAHRAIN 15
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 CONTENTS 7 NTS Take the Wheel JETOUR Bahrain’s 2027 SUV range spans compact city models, rugged designs and a technology-focused flagship, with ownership benefits available across all five vehicles. Driving Breast Cancer Awareness Porsche Centre Bahrain and UFC Gym Bahrain raised a combined BD1,500 through an October breast cancer awareness campaign supporting Think Pink, represented by the Bahrain Breast Cancer Society. MOTORING 90 NOVEMBER 2 26 Who Gets Your Vote? More than 735 nominations have brought the Woman of the Year Awards 2026 to its next stage. Meet the women shortlisted for this year’s honours and cast your vote from November 1–30. IN HER SHOES In Her Shoes This month, we step into the world of Dilara Yurdakul, Commercial Director at Aqua Vista Bahrain. 138 Bahrain Unites in Pink More than 500 people gathered at Water Garden City for the second edition of United in Pink, showing solidarity with those affected by breast cancer through an evening of awareness, fundraising and community activities. Personalising Cancer Care Oncologist Dr. Maha Al Sindi discusses targeted treatments, personalised medicine and the importance of supporting patients throughout treatment and life beyond cancer. Beyond the Operating Theatre Surgeon Dr. Noof Al Shibani explains how coordinated treatment, advanced reconstruction and investment in local expertise are shaping breast cancer care in Bahrain. www.womanthismonth.com Digital Edition November 2026 | Issue 280 Bahrain's Lifestyle Guide for HER BEAUTY | FASHION | HOME | WELLBEING | LOCAL ISSUES TOP NOMINEES REVEALED VOTE NOW! 119 125 WOTYA 2026 UNITED IN PINK
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 BYSTANDER 8 Indonesian Embassy Marks 81st Independence Anniversary The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia in Bahrain hosted a National Day Reception at The Diplomat Radisson Blu Hotel, Residence & Spa to mark the 81st anniversary of the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia.
Mediterranean flavors. Italian flair. A taste of la dolce vita. TASTE OF SOUTHERN ITALY C-SALT INTRODUCES A C-Salt at Hawar Resort by Mantis introduces a new Mediterranean dining experience inspired by the flavours of Southern Italy and the charm of the Mediterranean coast. For more information or reservations:www.hawarresort.com | +973 3218 3610
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 BYSTANDER 10 Culture Heritage and Innovation at the 41st expo Indonesia Indonesia opened its doors to showcase its rich culture, heritage and innovation during the 41st Trade Expo Indonesia. The visit aimed to strengthen media cooperation, promote Indonesian tourism and connect unique destination experiences with broader economic opportunities.
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 BYSTANDER 12 French Embassy Hosts Pink October Padel Tournament in Bahrain The French Embassy in Bahrain organised a ladies’ padel tournament at Let’s Padel Bahrain at The Ritz-Carlton, Bahrain. Held under the theme Together Against Breast Cancer, the event brought participants together through sport and community solidarity in support of breast cancer awareness.
Tuesday – Sunday From Sunset to 12 Midnight | Thursday & Friday 4:30 PM to 1:00 AM Live Music Every Friday Reservations (973) 1711 5500 | [email protected] Byblos welcomes the season with an immersive beachfront setting and a menu celebrating the warmth of Lebanese hospitality. Discover new dishes alongside much-loved signatures, from Sawda Djej and Makanek bi Limon to Mudardara Bil Lahmeh, followed by Kunafa with homemade pistachio ice cream. With views across Bahrain Bay and live music in the evening, savour the flavours of Lebanon by the sea. A Taste of Lebanon BY THE WATER
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 BYSTANDER 14 Portrait of Ennio: The Jazz Side of Ennio Morricone The Patrizio Destriere Quartet performed at the Cultural Hall, reinterpreting Ennio Morricone’s compositions through jazz. Presented by the Embassy of Italy in Bahrain as part of the 35th Bahrain International Music Festival, the performance featured saxophone, piano, double bass, drums and live electronics. “The Faith Triangle”-This is Bahrain, AMH, TNEC & Al Raja School Bahrain’s legacy of religious tolerance, education and healthcare was celebrated at a ceremony marking the laying of the foundation stone for the redevelopment of the American Mission Hospital (AMH) in Manama and the transformation of its historic Women’s and Children’s building into a healthcare museum.
Italy in November 2026 bahrainthismonth.com SPECIAL FEATURE BY
Seef District, Facing Ritz Carlton Entrance - Palace Palms Bldg. 17564444 [email protected] 17564466
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 ITALY IN BAHRAIN 17 A Friendship That Feels Like Family With an Italian grandmother and nearly half a century spent in Bahrain, the warmth between these two countries feels deeply personal to me. I remember hearing my father speak Italian with his mother and her sister. To my ears, it was the language of music and love: expressive, affectionate and full of life. I have often recognised that same warmth in Bahrain. Both societies cherish family and friends, welcome guests generously and respect older generations. Faith runs deep, shaping traditions and community life, while pride in heritage sits alongside ambition for the young. Around the table, these similarities come naturally to life. Food expresses affection and belonging; conversations flow, another helping is encouraged, and there is always room for one more guest. Italy and Bahrain also share maritime and trading traditions, an appreciation of craftsmanship and beauty, and a gift for building relationships through personal trust. The opening of the Italian Embassy in Manama in 2002 marked an important milestone in this relationship, supporting closer political dialogue and expanding commercial engagement. That diplomatic foundation provides a starting point for looking at how ties have developed and where shared ambitions could lead next. As Publisher of Bahrain This Month, I am delighted to celebrate these connections. This supplement honours the people whose friendships, creativity and enterprise bring our countries closer, making a diplomatic relationship feel wonderfully human. George F Middleton Publisher, Bahrain This Month Italy in November 2026 bahrainthismonth.com SPECIAL FEATURE BY Cover Design by Freddie Tawfick (A talented young Italian-British designer resident in Bahrain).
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 ITALY IN BAHRAIN 18 A Life Building Bridges Italian Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Andrea Catalano, discusses diplomatic ties, cultural connections and the people shaping a partnership that spans education, sport, business and an appreciation of beauty.
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 ITALY IN BAHRAIN 19 Where were your previous postings and how have those experiences shaped your approach to diplomacy and your role in Bahrain? I started my career at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on December 29, 2000. I was then posted to Cairo in 2004 as my first choice, an experience that shaped my personal and professional life in many ways. I regret never having really learned Arabic, but anyone can pinpoint the rough taxi Arabic I picked up in the streets of Cairo. It was there that I met my future wife, and we got married in Cairo in a magical setting. From there, we moved together to Tripoli. As head of the commercial section, I was in charge of implementing the bilateral Treaty of Friendship, Partnership and Cooperation, before helping with the repatriation of nationals and citizens of other friendly nations. We stayed until ordered to leave on March 17, 2011. Our daughter was born in Washington in March 2011 and unwillingly started a similar globetrotting experience. I returned to Tripoli through Misrata on September 1, 2011 to reopen the Embassy. In addition to two separate three-year stints in Rome in charge of North African affairs, I spent around six years in Washington in two different postings dealing with MENA and other issues. None of this would have been possible without the support and partnership of my fantastic family, my wife and daughter, who have accompanied me in this challenging but enriching transcontinental journey. How would you describe Italy–Bahrain relations and their recent progress? The bilateral relations between our two nations are beyond excellent and have significantly improved in the last two and a half years. The biggest signals include the two visits by Prime Minister Meloni, the first ever by an Italian Prime Minister, and reciprocal visits by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa. Italy stayed in and with Bahrain throughout the aggression in the spring. We never abandoned Bahrain and we are still here. The Italian Government was among the first to react to the request for support by the Bahraini Government. How do November’s events, including the Week of Italian Cuisine, share Italian culture? What connects them and what should readers experience? It has been a challenging year for everyone, so our promotional initiatives, usually spread around the year, will now be concentrated in November. We are looking at blending together cuisine, design, language, Made in Italy and sports. This is our way to approach the people and share Italy and Italian values and excellences with everyone on the island. The connecting line is love and beauty. All the expressions of the Italian “ saper fare” are intimately linked. So please stay tuned for our full programme of events. Which encounters best capture the human connection between Bahrain and Italy? I like to meet new people, including many young people connected to Italy: some who just came back from Italy and some I met before they were travelling there. We established connections and became friends, and I learned from them and they learned from us. They all bring a piece of Italy here and leave a piece of Bahrain in Italy. What better bridge than that? What practical benefits should people and businesses see from these diplomatic ties? The relationship between our two leaderships and our peoples creates the powerful framework in which all kinds of relations can further develop. Our job is to consolidate the fertile soil in which these initiatives can grow and flourish. Once that foundation is in place, governmental, personal and economic projects can prosper, contributing to greater peace, security and shared prosperity. How could the Embassy work with the King Hamad Global Centre for Coexistence and Tolerance? My alma mater, La Sapienza University in Rome, hosts the King Hamad Chair for Interfaith Dialogue and Peaceful Coexistence. A partnership already exists between the Centre and the Catholic Church here in Bahrain. An example of this synergy was San Francesco 800 – A Musical Journey of Faith, which I attended on September 19 at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia. Last April, as the region was going through high uncertainty and distress, an interfaith prayer was organised by the Centre, with different traditions and religions coming together as one to pray for peace. As an Embassy, we will strive to strengthen this partnership through further initiatives. What educational and exchange opportunities would you like for Bahraini students and young professionals? The opportunity I want to create is a permanent bridge and a lasting ecosystem for creative entrepreneurship. We can achieve this by launching joint incubators for Bahraini digital designers and Italian product developers to cocreate, while also expanding our joint culinary initiatives into food science, agriculture and sustainable hospitality. Pairing young Bahraini professionals with Italian industry leaders for one-on-one mentorship will provide education and hands-on experience. I would like to see more Bahraini students take advantage of the opportunities offered by Erasmus+ and apply for the Italian Government scholarships, especially this year as the number of scholarships offered through the Embassy of Italy in Bahrain has doubled, creating even greater opportunities for academic growth, cultural exchange and international experience. How do sport and music bring people together beyond formal diplomacy? Through sport, Bahrain and Italy have forged genuine friendships, built on shared values of excellence, determination and mutual respect. Bahrain’s inaugural Grand Prix was won by Michael Schumacher driving for Ferrari, while Bahrain Victorious has featured several distinguished Italian riders. And it is contagious! I started horse riding here in Bahrain. Although I am still a dilettante and have only fallen twice, it is an activity that I will fondly take back with me to Italy! Beyond Rome, Florence and Milan, where would you recommend visiting and why? This is an extremely dangerous question, because whatever answer I give, I am sure I would upset someone! Italy has 20 marvellous regions, each with its own unique identity. If you have already visited the major cities, my advice would be to rent a car, decide on a destination and explore different regions. Go, explore and diversify your experiences. How would you describe your experience with Bahrain’s authorities and community? I’d rather not look only at the wonderful time I have spent here, but at the time I have ahead of me. Throughout my time in Bahrain, I have enjoyed an exceptional relationship with the local authorities at every level. There is a remarkable spirit of cooperation, openness and mutual respect. I left part of my heart in Cairo. For various reasons, many parts are in Washington. Rome is a given, and Libya stays in my heart until today. And now… Bahrain is keeping another piece!
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 20 From Friendship to Investment Bahrain’s Ambassador to Italy, His Excellency Ausamah Alabsi, discusses growing economic ties, Italian hospitality and the lasting partnerships he hopes will benefit both countries for years. ITALY IN BAHRAIN
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 ITALY IN BAHRAIN 21 How has your career shaped your diplomacy, and what surprised you about Italy? This is my first ambassadorial posting. A lot of people associate me, rightly so, with my stint at the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, but I spent 13 years at the Economic Development Board, rising from business development officer to deputy chief executive. That plays a big role in what I do here, because a big chunk of an embassy’s work is to promote economic cooperation, investments going both ways, trade and scouting for opportunities for Bahraini businesses. My time at the LMRA helps me understand how government systems work and approach them in a manner that makes life easier for both sides. In this day and age, the economy drives everything. Imports, exports and mutual investments on the ground are big catalysts for government-to-government cooperation. What struck me was the level of cordial and close relationships between the two countries’ leaderships. There is mutual respect, direct contact and warm friendships at leadership level. That makes my job, from a diplomatic point of view, rather easy, but shifts my focus to the economy. We now need to translate that cordial diplomatic relationship into a mutually beneficial economic relationship. How would you describe Bahrain–Italy relations and their recent progress? There hasn’t been a year as phenomenal as 2025 in the relationship between our countries. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni visited Bahrain twice: once in January and once in December to attend the GCC Summit. His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa visited Rome in July, while His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister visited in late September. I also had several ministerial delegations. No ambassador could ask for more than this. The relationship is on a high. The most significant element was the Strategic Investment and Collaboration Partnership signed during His Royal Highness’s September visit. That lays the ground for some very important approaches to investment between the two countries. It sets the framework for how it is done, and right now we are working on that. Where do you see the strongest opportunities for business and investment? Italy is an industrial powerhouse, particularly when it comes to engineering and parts manufacturing. There are many medium-sized companies producing parts and machinery used in other industries around Europe and Italy. These are prime candidates for operating in Bahrain, where operating costs are lower, energy is available and they can serve a wider clientele around the world. Similarly, they could be very good candidates for Bahraini investments to increase their size and resilience. Trieste, in north-eastern Italy, is a big logistical hub serving Eastern Europe and the Balkans. That is something we should be looking at. We work closely with the EDB, Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Ministry of Industry and Commerce. All we can do is bring opportunities to businesses, facilitate their mission and overcome obstacles. It is in the hands of the private sector to make it work. What would you most like Italians to discover about Bahrain? Italy is a collection of locales. Every 50 kilometres can present new topography, different climates, vegetation and even cuisine. That is where Bahrain becomes interesting. Its distinctive flavour, activities and ways of life are similar to visiting a medium-sized Italian city and seeing how that particular place lives. I know an Italian person who visited Bahrain once for business and now takes his family there for a holiday every single year without fail. I find that fascinating. When I asked why, he said: “I feel relaxed and I feel I can deal with the people and I feel at home.” What have you come to admire most about Italy and its people? The Italians truly know how to enjoy life and have their priorities right. The first thing you admire and try to adopt is the value of self-care, serenity and one’s peace. Things get done, but urgency here is not like urgency in the rest of the world. It is a way of life to not rush and not stress. The second thing I truly admire is the general warmth with which people deal with anyone who doesn’t look like them or speak their language. You see them truly try to communicate, understand what you need and help however they can. You can go from being strangers to being familiar within one meeting. I wouldn’t easily use the word friend, because friendships are built over time. That familiarity makes my life and my job a lot easier. They warm up to you, and all you need to be is genuine. Which lesser-known destinations would you recommend to Bahraini visitors? There is a little Medieval village about an hour outside Rome where I wouldn’t mind being lost and not found again. It is on top of a mountain, with roads and alleys that have been there for hundreds of years. I guess what I’m saying is that there are hundreds of hidden gems like this all over Italy. Drive half an hour or 40 minutes outside Florence and you have the Tuscan rolling hills, villages and towns worth a day each. If you spent a month, you wouldn’t cover them all. I always recommend landing in a big city, enjoying it and then spreading out. Get in a car and get deliberately lost. You will see salt-of-the-earth Italians going about their daily business, very happy for you to visit their town. How closely do you work with your Italian counterpart? We have a lot of contact. We both assumed our responsibilities at the same time, with an overlap of one week between him landing in Bahrain and me coming to Italy. We met and had dinner during that week. I have dinner with him every time I go to Bahrain; I had one last week. We talk every week or 10 days. What lasting legacy would you like to leave? We have the foundation at leadership level and through the agreements signed between the two countries. Now my job, and that of my colleague, the Italian Ambassador to Bahrain, is to inform businesses, work with them and get them to avail themselves of these special conditions and mutual investment agreements. That is the legacy. Once an Italian business comes and sets up shop in Bahrain, it doesn’t make a difference whether I am still an ambassador or not. Similarly, when Bahraini investments come to Italy, these things change people’s lives. They create jobs, wealth and further human interaction. These things outlast civil servants such as myself. His Excellency with Sergio Mattarella, President of the Italian Republic
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 22 Shared Horizons ITALY IN BAHRAIN A series of major agreements and growing commercial ties have brought fresh momentum to relations between Italy and Bahrain. As cooperation expands across industries and cultural institutions, the partnership is entering a significant new chapter. Strengthening Ties Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1972, Italy and Bahrain have steadily expanded their cooperation. The opening of the Italian Embassy in Manama in 2002 marked an important milestone, followed by agreements establishing formal channels for political dialogue. A further step came in November 2021, when the two countries signed an agreement establishing a Joint Bilateral Commission. Its first high-level meeting took place in Rome in June 2023, providing a framework for cooperation across trade, investment, education, technology and culture. Recent years have brought significant developments. In January 2025, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni made the first visit by an Italian Prime Minister to Bahrain, meeting His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. In September 2025, His Royal Highness visited Rome, where the two countries signed a Strategic Investment and Cooperation Partnership involving commitments valued at more than €1 billion. Representing a major step in bilateral economic relations, the agreement identified six priority sectors: energy, logistics, tourism, industry, financial services and information and communication technologies. The relationship was further strengthened in December 2025, when Prime Minister Meloni returned to Bahrain and attended the 46th GCC Summit as Guest of Honour. Her participation also highlighted Italy’s commitment to developing relations between Europe and the Gulf. Business Connections Economic cooperation has become an increasingly important part of the relationship. Bilateral trade grew by 34.9% in 2025, with Bahraini exports to Italy increasing by 71% and Italian exports rising by 3.8%. Bahrain primarily exports raw aluminium and base metals, while Italian exports include industrial machinery, chemicals, jewellery, food products and transport equipment. Several agreements are translating this commercial relationship into industrial opportunities. Bahrain’s Arab Shipbuilding and Repair Yard Company (ASRY) has pursued partnerships with Italian companies including Leonardo, De Wave and Fincantieri, covering shipbuilding, vessel maintenance and maritime technology. A separate agreement with Italian technology company Roboze concerns the development of a smart manufacturing facility in Bahrain. The proposed facility would use advanced 3D printing technology to produce specialised engineering components locally. Italian companies are also contributing to Bahrain’s energy and infrastructure sectors. Eni has been active in the Kingdom since 2018, with cooperation extending to sustainability and energy diversification. Prysmian Group is involved in electricity transmission projects, while Leonardo’s activities include aviation safety, radar systems and naval modernisation. Meanwhile, Bahrain’s sovereign wealth fund, Mumtalakat, has invested in Italian businesses including healthcare operator KOS Group and motorsport equipment manufacturer Racing Force Group. Made in Bahrain One particularly striking example of ItalianBahraini industrial cooperation can be found beside Bahrain International Circuit.
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 ITALY IN BAHRAIN 23 Racing Force Group’s facility in Sakhir manufactures Bell Racing helmets used in international motorsport, including Formula 1. Combining Italian technology with Bahraini manufacturing, the expanded 12,000 sqm facility employs approximately 400 people and produces more than 115,000 units annually, comprising approximately 50,000 competition helmets and 65,000 collectible miniature helmets. The site handles activities ranging from research and development to manufacturing and safety testing, demonstrating how the partnership supports specialised industrial production within the Kingdom. Italian brands are also becoming increasingly visible in Bahrain’s consumer market. Eataly opened its first Bahraini location at Marassi Mall in 2025, while gelato brand La Romana and historic Roman chocolatier S.A.I.D. have expanded the Italian culinary offering. Pramac, the Italian power equipment manufacturer, has established a regional headquarters in Manama, further demonstrating Bahrain’s appeal as a base for companies serving the wider Gulf. Supporting Trade The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) plays an important role in connecting businesses from both countries. Its Manama Desk, inaugurated at the Italian Embassy in 2021, assists Italian companies entering the Bahraini market while supporting local entrepreneurs seeking commercial partnerships and investment opportunities in Italy. Working alongside the Embassy’s Commercial Office, the Desk facilitates trade delegations, provides tailored business assistance and helps companies identify opportunities in both markets. The agency celebrates its centenary in 2026, a milestone coinciding with a significant Italian presence at Jewellery Arabia. From November 24 to 28, the exhibition at Exhibition World Bahrain will feature the first collective Italian Trade Agency Pavilion, bringing together 16 companies from across Italy. Alongside established exhibitors, more than 30 Italian companies are expected to participate in the event. Located in Hall 3, Booth C50, the pavilion will showcase Italian jewellery craftsmanship and contemporary design, strengthening commercial connections with Bahrain’s jewellery market. Cultural Exchange Beyond business and diplomacy, cultural cooperation remains central to relations between the two countries. The Italian Embassy has supported performances at the Bahrain International Music Festival, including appearances by Italian jazz musicians Luca Velotti and Silvia Manco. Visual arts have provided another platform for collaboration. Crossroads: A Visual Dialogue Between Italy & Bahrain, presented at the Bahrain National Museum, brought together Bahraini photographers Hanan Al Khalifa and Ghada Khunji with Italian artists Loredana Mantello and Valentina Costa. Organised in collaboration with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, the exhibition formed part of the 21st edition of Contemporary Art Day. Italian language and cuisine have also featured prominently in cultural exchanges. The Royal University for Women houses the Grazia Deledda Centre for Italian Language and Culture, while initiatives such as the Week of Italian Cuisine introduce audiences to Italy’s regional culinary traditions. Academic partnerships extend these connections further. The King Hamad Chair for Inter-Faith Dialogue and Peaceful Coexistence was established at Sapienza University of Rome in 2018, while Bahrain’s Gulf University has developed a partnership with the University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli to support research and academic exchanges.
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 ITALY IN BAHRAIN 24 The Touch Italy’s connections with Bahrain extend well beyond the familiar worlds of fashion and food. Across the Kingdom, Italian craftsmanship and expertise have played a role in landmark buildings and major infrastructure. Marble Underfoot At Al Fateh Grand Mosque, marble sourced from Italy covers the floors and sections of the interior walls, contributing to the grandeur of a space capable of accommodating thousands of worshippers. The stone is one element of an interior drawing on materials and workmanship from around the world. Its vast dome is made of fibreglass, the principal chandelier was produced in Austria and its doors were crafted from Indian teak. The Italian marble takes its place among these international contributions to one of Bahrain’s most prominent religious landmarks. Mosaic by Mosaic At Al Fadhel Mosque in old Manama, specialists from Italy helped restore its historic minaret. The project brought the Rome-based Centro di Conservazione Archeologica (CCA) together with the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities. Led by conservation specialist Roberto Nardi, the CCA team spent almost four years on the restoration. Archival photographs were studied to establish the minaret’s original appearance and decorative patterns before its intricate exterior could be reconstructed. More than two million pieces of mosaic, stained glass and Buccino marble were used in the process. The restoration involved 35 CCA team members, while preparations included work in Venice to reproduce elements required for the mosaics. The painstaking restoration applied Italian conservation skills to recovering the details of a Bahraini landmark that has long formed part of Manama’s streetscape. An Italian Vision The Cathedral of Our Lady of Arabia in Awali was conceived by Italian designer and architect Mattia Del Prete and Cristiano Rosponi. Inaugurated in December 2021, the cathedral can accommodate around 2,300 people. Its tent-shaped design draws inspiration from the biblical tent of meeting, with an octagonal dome rising above the interior. Del Prete and Rosponi translated that reference into the architecture of a cathedral built for the Catholic community in Bahrain. The cathedral’s foundation stone adds a direct connection with Rome. Taken from the Holy Door of St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, it was gifted to the faithful of Arabia and incorporated into a building conceived by Italian designers thousands of kilometres away.
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 ITALY IN BAHRAIN 25 Refining Bahrain Italian engineering has also played a part in the development of Bahrain’s oil industry. In 2017, an international consortium led by Technip Italia secured a contract worth approximately €3.5 billion for the expansion and modernisation of Bapco’s refinery. The programme was designed to increase the refinery’s capacity while improving its energy efficiency and environmental performance. Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the contract at the time as a significant achievement for Italian industry in Bahrain, particularly in engineering and construction. According to the Italian Embassy in Manama, Italian machinery and technology have been used in Bahrain’s industrial development since the 1970s and 1980s, with Italian companies maintaining a presence in the refining and petrochemical sectors. Pearling Preserved Italian specialists have also contributed to conservation work in historic Muharraq. Milanbased Studio Gionata Rizzi has been involved in conservation approaches associated with the UNESCO-listed Pearling Path, while other specialists have undertaken structural investigations and developed strategies for strengthening properties along the route. The conservation effort addresses the structural demands of ageing properties while protecting the architectural character of historic Muharraq. In 2021, Bahrain presented In Muharraq: The Pearling Path at the Venice Architecture Biennale, with Studio Gionata Rizzi among the contributors represented. The exhibition took Bahrain’s work in Muharraq to one of the world’s leading international platforms for architecture. Modern Materials Italian materials continue to feature in Bahrain’s contemporary developments. During the construction of Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay, almost 20,000sq m of marble was imported from Italy, Germany and Greece, with Italian stone among the materials selected for the hotel’s interiors. Its use at the hotel provides a contemporary parallel to the marble at Al Fateh Grand Mosque. The settings could hardly be more different, yet both show how stone sourced from Italy has been incorporated into prominent spaces in Bahrain. Italian art has a place in the Kingdom too. RAK Art Foundation holds Variable Round Image, a 1990 work by Padua-born Alberto Biasi, an important figure in Italy’s post-war optical and kinetic art movement. Water Works During the 1980s, Italian engineering company Italimpianti worked on major desalination developments in Sitra as Bahrain expanded its capacity to produce drinking water. The company was involved in Sitra II and Sitra III, which used Multi-Stage Flash desalination technology. Sitra II, completed in 1987, added 23,000 cubic metres of daily desalination capacity. Unlike the marble at Al Fateh or the mosaics of Al Fadhel, the Italian contribution at Sitra was largely out of public view. Its impact was practical, with engineering expertise contributing to the infrastructure required to meet Bahrain’s growing demand for water.
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 ITALY IN BAHRAIN 26 Bab Al Bahrain’s redesigned entrance draws inspiration from Roman city gates. Its arches and first-floor gallery bring elements of these historic gateways to the entrance of Manama Souq. Bab Al Bahrain has welcomed generations into the capital’s historic heart. Its position has long made it a recognisable landmark, but the façade visitors see today has evolved through successive renovations. When the building was completed in 1949, its entrance was relatively understated. The façade aligned with the rest of the structure, with only a slight rise above the roof parapet marking the gateway from a distance. Its significance came largely from its location between the city and the market. A second renovation in the 1980s gave the building a more pronounced presence. Decorative battlements appeared along the roofline, while redesigned arched windows gave it a more monumental appearance. Classical Connections For the latest redesign, the architect drew inspiration from the arches of Roman city gates. The resemblance lies in how the gateway stands out from the surrounding façade. The entrance projects forward and is arranged across three levels. Porta Portese in Rome offers a strong comparison, with its prominent central arch and crest positioned above it. Its association with a weekend market also provides a link to Bab Al Bahrain’s position at the entrance to Manama Souq. At Bab Al Bahrain, three arches define the composition, with a wider, taller central opening flanked by two smaller side openings. The design recalls the traditional gateway arrangement that separated carriage and horse traffic from pedestrians, combining access with a ceremonial entrance to the city. Above the entrance, an open first-floor gallery recalls the passages that once connected sections of a city wall. It adds depth to the building while extending the reference to historic gateways beyond the arches themselves. A National Symbol At the centre of the main arch sits the Bahraini emblem, cast in bronze and positioned where an arch’s keystone would normally be found. In a stone arch, the keystone locks the surrounding stones into place. Here, its position gives the national emblem a symbolic role, representing the strength and wisdom that support society. The choice of bronze also allows the crest’s details to be expressed more clearly. The redesign retains materials and finishes faithful to the building’s period and Bahraini tradition. A Roman Echo
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 INTERVIEW 27 For more information: Visit - Phoenicia Decor at Palace Palms Building in Seef. 17564444 www.phoeniciadecor.com Italian Style, Everyday Comfort Italian design has a natural place in homes that balance elegance with everyday comfort. In Bahrain, Natuzzi Italia is available through Phoenicia Decor, the brand’s sole distributor in the Kingdom, bringing its distinctive approach to furniture and interiors within reach of local homeowners. With a heritage dating back to 1959, Natuzzi draws inspiration from Puglia in southern Italy. The region’s landscape informs its design language, from Mediterranean blues and olive greens to stone neutrals and earthy browns. These influences underpin the brand’s emphasis on harmony, connecting colours, materials and finishes across the home. The collections extend beyond sofas to include armchairs, dining tables, beds, lighting and accessories. This breadth allows homeowners to consider how individual pieces work together, whether creating a welcoming living room, a restful bedroom or a dining space for gathering with family and friends. Comfort remains central, alongside an attention to form and visual balance. For customers in Bahrain, Phoenicia Decor adds local interiors expertise to that Italian perspective. Established in 1967, the company offers furniture alongside fabrics, wallpapers, carpets and curtains, with services covering design advice, reupholstery and professional installation. Its wider offering provides scope to coordinate furniture with the textures and finishes that complete a room. A visit to the Seef showroom offers an opportunity to explore Natuzzi Italia and discuss how its collections might suit a particular space. Whether furnishing a new property or refreshing an established home, the starting point can be a single sofa, with complementary pieces shaping the room around it. Together, Natuzzi Italia’s design heritage and Phoenicia Decor’s experience offer Bahrain residents a way to bring Italian style into everyday living, with guidance available locally throughout the process of planning their interiors.
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 ITALY IN BAHRAIN 28 Unexpectedly Italy Behind Italy’s familiar icons lies a country of unexpected inventions and remarkable craftsmanship, with connections that stretch all the way to Bahrain. Think you know Italy? Here are 20 things that might surprise you (with 1,000s more to discover). Fashion Went Global in Florence On February 12, 1951, entrepreneur Giovanni Battista Giorgini organised a collective presentation of Italian haute couture at Villa Torrigiani for international buyers and journalists. Its success helped introduce Italian designers to a global audience, with later shows moving to Palazzo Pitti. Como’s Luxury Silk Lake Como may draw the visitors, but generations of textile expertise have made the surrounding area an important centre for processing and finishing silk. Fabrics carrying major international labels can begin with specialist Italian manufacturers whose names consumers may never see. Etruscans Mastered Goldwork The Etruscans were accomplished jewellery makers who mastered techniques including granulation, in which tiny grains of precious metal were painstakingly applied to create intricate decoration. Their work established a tradition of sophisticated Italian metalwork thousands of years before the modern luxury houses. Biella’s Centuries of Wool Its centuries-old wool industry includes names such as Ermenegildo Zegna and Loro Piana. Vitale Barberis Canonico traces its history to 1663, while Biella joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network in 2019. Jewellery Spans Italy Valenza in Piedmont, Vicenza in Veneto and Arezzo in Tuscany are among the country’s most important jewellery centres. Their specialist manufacturers help explain how traditional Italian goldsmithing continues on an international scale. Cremona Makes Violins by Hand UNESCO recognises its traditional violinmaking as Intangible Cultural Heritage. A maker may complete just three to six individually constructed instruments a year, hand-shaping and assembling more than 70 wooden pieces. Belluno Makes Luxury Eyewear Many designer frames begin life far from the fashion capitals. Around Belluno in Veneto, generations of specialist manufacturers produce frames for numerous luxury labels, placing this mountainous corner of northern Italy behind some of the world’s most recognisable eyewear. Valenza Handles 70% of Italy’s Gems The Piedmontese district has more than two centuries of jewellery-making heritage, with its creations travelling to markets around the world and making this relatively little-known city a major player in Italian luxury. Glass Beads Made UNESCO’s List Added in 2020, the glass-bead tradition shared by Italy and France is closely associated in Italy with Venetian glassmaking, where artisans have developed elaborate techniques using heated glass and coloured canes to create remarkably detailed beads. 1. 4. 7. 2. 5. 8. 3. 6. 9.
bahrainthismonth.com | NOVEMBER 2026 ITALY IN BAHRAIN 29 Italy Has a Motor Valley Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ducati, Pagani and Dallara all have roots in Emilia-Romagna. A wider network of specialist engineering businesses supports the manufacturers, creating an entire ecosystem for Italian motoring. The First Battery Was Italian Every time we talk about volts, we are using the name of an Italian scientist. Alessandro Volta developed the voltaic pile around 1800, creating the first practical source of continuous electric current and paving the way for modern batteries. His contribution was later immortalised in the electrical unit known as the volt. Bologna Houses a Supercomputer Leonardo, housed at the Bologna Technopole and operated by CINECA, provides immense computing power for scientific research, placing the city at the heart of Europe’s highperformance computing network. Italy Invented the Piano Padua-born Bartolomeo Cristofori developed the instrument that became the modern piano around 1700 while working at the Medici court in Florence. His mechanism allowed players to control the strength of a note through the touch of the keys, changing the possibilities of keyboard music. Olivetti Pioneered Desktop Computing Olivetti introduced the Programma 101 in 1965, putting programmable computing into a machine small enough to sit on a desk when computers could occupy entire rooms. Regarded as a precursor to the personal computer, it was also acquired by NASA for work connected with the Apollo programme. Bahrain Won an Expo Milano Prize At Expo Milano 2015, Bahrain’s pavilion welcomed more than 2.2 million visitors and received the Silver Prize for Architecture in the large-pavilion category. Inspired by Bahrain’s agricultural heritage, the pavilion brought a distinctly Bahraini story to one of Italy’s biggest international events. Olivetti Pioneered Desktop Computing Olivetti introduced the Programma 101 in 1965, putting programmable computing into a machine small enough to sit on a desk when computers could occupy entire rooms. Regarded as a precursor to the personal computer, it was also acquired by NASA for work connected with the Apollo programme. An Italian Identified Dilmun’s King Professor Gianni Marchesi of the University of Bologna analysed Akkadian inscriptions found on stone vessels from the Royal Mounds of A’ali in Bahrain. The research helped identify Yagli-El, a king of ancient Dilmun, adding to the understanding of Bahrain’s early royal history. Ferrari Won Bahrain’s First F1 Race When Bahrain International Circuit staged its inaugural Formula One Grand Prix on April 4, 2004, Michael Schumacher won for Ferrari, with teammate Rubens Barrichello second for a one-two finish. Italy Funded 65% of Vega The space launcher began as an Italian project before being adopted by the European Space Agency. Italy provided around 65% of the funding for its original development, making it the largest contributor to a launcher designed primarily to carry smaller satellites into orbit. Italy Watches Earth by Radar COSMO-SkyMed is an Italian Earthobservation programme using sophisticated radar satellites, with data supporting applications from environmental monitoring to emergency management. The programme continues to evolve, with the third satellite in its second-generation 10. 15. 14. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 11. 12. 13.
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