Religions

Bahrain's culture is mostly based on its Islamic background and is extremely similar to that of its Arab neighbors in the Gulf. But now that there are many more foreigners living there than native Bahrainis, it is quite multicultural. The Catholic and Orthodox churches, Hindu temples, and even a Jewish synagogue on the island are examples of how, while having a strong sense of cultural, religious, and ethnic identity, the locals are exceedingly hospitable and tolerant of different cultures and religions. Bahrain proudly displays its Arab heritage in its architecture, mosques, and public gathering places like souks and cafés. More contemporary pursuits like soccer and foreign travel have surpassed more traditional hobbies like falconry, horseback riding, and poetry in popularity.

Islam is the official religion of Bahrain, and the majority of its people are Muslims. Shiites make up the majority of Muslims in Bahrain. It is one of three Middle Eastern nations, along with Iran and Iraq, where Shiites predominate. Public surveys are uncommon in Bahrain, but according to the US Department of State's assessment on religious freedom there, Shia make up between 55% and 60% of Bahrain's population. The royal family and the majority of Bahrani elites are Sunni, despite the fact that Shia make up the majority of the population. The two Muslim populations in the nation agree on some matters but strongly disagree on others. Shia have frequently bemoaned their political and economic marginalization in Bahrain; as a result, the majority of protesters in the 2011 Bahraini revolt were Shia.