We are entering a new era for global trade.
Marked by rapid market re-alignments, and increasingly complex geopolitical currents, today’s landscape is seeing trade flows pivot towards partnerships with the world’s most dynamic economies. As the new map of global trade takes shape, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is rapidly emerging as a new centre for trade, innovation and technology, representing one of the world’s most impressive development success stories.
At this defining stage, the Gateway Gulf Investment Forum will return in its third edition to Manama on 2-3 November 2025, providing an opportunity for global investors and businesses to directly engage with the visionaries shaping the region’s transformation right in the heart of the Gulf: Bahrain.
Distinguished by a diverse economy and a spirit of openness, Bahrain was the first GCC nation to diversify beyond oil, establishing a dynamic economy powered by financial services, ICT, manufacturing, logistics and tourism. Geographically positioned as a bridge connecting the East and West, with forward-looking policies, world-class infrastructure, a skilled workforce and business-friendly environment, Bahrain offers a powerful launchpad to reach the world’s fastest-growing markets, serving as an ideal gateway to the region.
Under the theme of ‘Rethinking Global Investment for New Trade Dynamics’, this exclusive, invitation-only forum will examine the GCC’s most compelling investment themes and how shifting global dynamics influence regional markets. Against a backdrop of uncertainty, the sovereign strength of the GCC and its drive for regional integration and connectivity offer a resilient and trusted base even as traditional markets fragment.
The GCC is also seeing emerging financial avenues, guided by ambitious economic visions, especially as local economies shift from oil under strategic mandates to develop key economic sectors. The region’s sovereign wealth funds are evolving into powerful economic tools, both in local transformation and diplomatic efforts, while the region’s innovative regulatory environments are opening doors to global and generational wealth alike. In parallel, its leadership in digital assets offers new possibilities for integration with the future of global finance. The GCC’s strategic geographic location, paired with innovations in transport and shipping, are reshaping logistics and unlocking new economic possibilities within the region.
As business and trade flows expand, other avenues, such as entertainment and tourism follow suit. The GCC is becoming known for its world-class entertainment as well as its booming business opportunities, with events like the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix and the upcoming 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia taking place alongside the region’s famous cultural heritage sites. The forum will explore the immense potential of the GCC as a global tourism destination.
Finally, the forum will also tackle the most profound global transformations: the green transition. Environmental awareness is pushing industry and infrastructure beyond carbon. Manufacturing and energy-intensive industries are walking a tightrope between meeting energy targets while coping with surging demand for AI and other technologies. Having built strong momentum in diversification, the GCC offers a blueprint for achieving growth and sustainability in tandem. The discussions will also explore broader technological and societal transformation, including AI adoption, smart city development, evolving workforce dynamics and healthcare innovation in the digital era.
As part of these visionary discussions, Gateway Gulf is set to welcome a curated high-level selection of the top 200 business leaders, investors and senior government officials from leading markets across the GCC, Asia, Europe and America. The forum will feature two days of bespoke networking events, customised personal agendas and access to key decision-makers, embodying the Team Bahrain approach – a powerful philosophy that champions close collaboration between the private and public sectors.
As we stand on the threshold of a new era in global trade, Gateway Gulf 2025 comes at a timely moment to explore the region’s most attractive investment prospects, understand Bahrain’s pivotal role in advancing the region’s diversification journey, and build a business presence within the Kingdom as a strategic gateway to unlocking the possibilities that the wider Gulf has to offer.