Flag of Bahrain

The national flag of the Kingdom of Bahrain is a powerful and iconic symbol, deeply rooted in the nation's history, its cultural identity, and its enduring connection to the Arab and Islamic worlds. More than just a colorful banner, the flag of Bahrain, with its distinctive serrated line separating red and white, tells a story of sovereignty, regional heritage, and the aspirations of its people. Its unique design, formally adopted on February 14, 2002, reflects a rich past and a vision for the future of this island nation in the Persian Gulf.

Design and Dimensions

The flag of Bahrain features a red field on the right (fly side) and a white field on the left (hoist side). These two fields are separated by a vertical serrated line consisting of five white triangles (or five points), which create a zig-zag pattern.

The official ratio of the flag's width to its length is 3:5. This proportion provides a balanced display of the red and white fields and emphasizes the unique serrated division.

Symbolism of the Colors and Elements

Every element of the Bahraini flag carries profound historical and cultural significance:

• Red Field: The red color is the traditional color of the flags of the Arab states of the Persian Gulf. Historically, red was associated with the Kharijite sect of Islam, which was prevalent in the region. More specifically for Bahrain, red has been the traditional color representing the Al-Khalifa ruling family and their historical ties to the region. It symbolizes valor, courage, and the sacrifices made by the Bahraini people for their nation.

• White Field: The white color on the hoist side of the flag symbolizes peace. Its inclusion signifies Bahrain's commitment to peaceful coexistence, both internally and with its neighbors. It also represents the treaties and agreements made with various nations, particularly with the United Kingdom, which led to a cessation of piracy in the region.

• Serrated Line (Five White Triangles/Points): The most distinctive feature of the flag is the serrated line separating the red and white. This unique element has evolved in its design and symbolism:

  • Historical Evolution: Earlier versions of the flag had more points, but these were reduced over time.

  • Significance of Five Points: The current design with five white points (or triangles) is highly significant. These five points represent the five pillars of Islam:

    1. Shahada (faith)

    2. Salat (prayer)

    3. Zakat (charity)

    4. Sawm (fasting during Ramadan)

    5. Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca) This powerfully underscores Bahrain's deep commitment to its Islamic faith and principles.

  • Distinction from Neighboring Flags: The serrated line also serves as a crucial identifier, distinguishing Bahrain's flag from the plain red and white flags historically used by other Gulf states.

History of Creation and Adoption

The history of Bahrain's flag is a fascinating journey that mirrors the island nation's evolving political status and its relationships with regional and international powers.

• Early Flags (Pre-1820): Before the 19th century, Bahrain, like many other states in the Gulf, would have likely used a simple plain red flag. This color was common among tribal groups and maritime powers in the region, particularly those associated with the Kharijite sect.

• Anglo-Bahraini Treaty of 1820: A pivotal moment came with the signing of the General Maritime Treaty of 1820 with Great Britain. This treaty aimed to suppress piracy in the Persian Gulf. As part of this agreement, it was stipulated that friendly Arab states would add a white stripe to their red flags to signify their peaceful intentions and distinguish them from pirate vessels. This is when the white stripe first appeared on Bahrain's flag. The white stripe was initially narrow and ran vertically along the hoist.

• Introduction of the Serrated Edge (1932): The transition from a straight white line to a serrated edge occurred in 1932. This change was reportedly initiated by Sir Charles Belgrave, the British advisor to the Ruler of Bahrain. The purpose was to further differentiate Bahrain's flag from those of its neighbors, particularly Qatar, which also used a red and white flag. The number of points in the serration varied in early designs, often being irregular.

• Number of Points (1971 onwards): When Bahrain declared its independence from the United Kingdom on August 15, 1971, the flag maintained its red, white, and serrated design. However, the exact number of points was not always consistently represented.

• Official Codification (2002): The current design, specifically with five white points, was officially defined and codified on February 14, 2002. This date marked the transformation of Bahrain from an Emirate into a Kingdom and the adoption of its National Charter. The five points were formally assigned to represent the Five Pillars of Islam, solidifying the religious significance of the flag. This adoption was a deliberate act to strengthen national identity and articulate the nation's core values.

Significance for the Inhabitants

For the people of Bahrain, their national flag is a source of deep pride, unity, and a constant reminder of their nation's journey and aspirations.

• National Identity and Sovereignty: The flag is a powerful emblem of Bahrain's sovereignty and independence. It distinguishes them as a unique nation in the Gulf region.

• Islamic Faith: The five points directly link the nation to the Five Pillars of Islam, reflecting the profound importance of faith in the daily lives and cultural fabric of Bahrainis. This resonates deeply with the population.

• Historical Legacy: The flag's evolution from a simple red banner to its current intricate design narrates the historical journey of the Al-Khalifa family and the nation's development, including its treaties and its path to modernity.

• Peace and Stability: The white color symbolizes peace, which is a highly valued aspect of Bahraini society. The flag reflects the nation's desire for stability and harmony within its borders and with its neighbors.

• Unity and Pride: Seeing the flag flown high instills a strong sense of national unity and pride among citizens, symbolizing shared heritage, values, and a common future.

Interesting Facts

• Distinct from Qatar's Flag: While both Bahrain and Qatar have red and white flags, Qatar's flag is maroon and has nine serrated points. This difference in color and number of points is a crucial distinction, often a topic of interest given their historical connections and occasional disputes.

• World Record Flag: In 2004, Bahrain created the world's largest flag (at the time) as part of its National Day celebrations. It measured approximately 160 meters by 90 meters and weighed several tons.

• Pre-Islamic Origins of Red: The use of red as a primary flag color in the Gulf region predates Islam in some contexts, linked to specific tribal confederations. However, its association with the Kharijite sect solidified its use for many centuries.

• British Influence on Design: The addition of the white stripe and later the serrated edge were direct results of British influence and treaties in the region, illustrating the historical role of external powers in shaping national symbols.

• Symbolism of the Number Five: The number five holds significant cultural and religious importance beyond the Five Pillars, appearing in various aspects of Islamic art and numerology.

• The "Pearl Diving" Flag Theory (Debunked): An earlier, popular but incorrect theory suggested the serrated edge represented the pearl industry, with the points symbolizing pearl divers' spears or the shape of oyster shells. This has been largely debunked; the official explanation now firmly links the five points to Islam.

• One of the Oldest Flag Designs (in principle): While refined over time, the basic principle of a red flag with a white stripe for a peaceful Gulf state dates back to the early 19th century, making Bahrain's flag one of the oldest in the region in terms of its core elements.

• Flag Day Traditions: Bahrain celebrates its National Day on December 16th, and the flag plays a central role in parades, public displays, and celebrations across the kingdom, emphasizing its unifying presence.

In the demonstration images, full-size flags are shown with proportions of 2:3, and hand-held flags with proportions of 1:2.