Which language is spoken in Bahrain?

Languages in Bahrain

Bahrain is a small island nation located in the Persian Gulf, with a population of approximately 1.5 million people. It is known for being a diverse country, with people from various ethnic and linguistic backgrounds. The country’s official language is Arabic, although there are many other languages spoken by its people.

Arabic: The Official Language

Arabic is the official language of Bahrain, and it is spoken by a large majority of the population. The language is used in all official settings, including government offices, schools, and media. Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) is the form of the language used in formal settings, such as news broadcasts and official documents. While MSA is the written standard, there are many dialects of Arabic spoken throughout the country.

Dialects: The Variants of Arabic

In addition to MSA, there are several dialects of Arabic spoken in Bahrain. These include Gulf Arabic, which is spoken by the majority of the population, as well as Hejazi Arabic and Najdi Arabic. The dialects differ in pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar, and some are more closely related to other dialects spoken in the region. While MSA is used in official settings, dialects are used in everyday conversation.

Minority Languages: Farsi, Urdu, and Malayalam

While Arabic is the dominant language in Bahrain, there are also several minority languages spoken by smaller groups of people. Farsi, also known as Persian, is spoken by many Bahrainis of Iranian descent. Urdu is spoken by the country’s large South Asian population, and Malayalam is spoken by those of Indian descent from the state of Kerala. These languages are typically used in informal settings, such as at home or in small social gatherings.

English: The Lingua Franca

English is widely spoken in Bahrain, particularly in business and education settings. It is considered the lingua franca of the country, and many Bahrainis are bilingual in Arabic and English. English is also used in media, including newspapers, television, and the internet.

Education: Arabic and English Medium Schools

The education system in Bahrain includes both Arabic and English medium schools. Arabic medium schools teach all subjects in Arabic, while English medium schools teach in English. Many Bahrainis attend English medium schools to improve their proficiency in the language, which is seen as essential for success in business and higher education.

Business: Language Used in the Workplace

In the workplace, Arabic is typically used for communication with clients and customers, while English is used for internal communication. Many companies require their employees to be bilingual in Arabic and English to be able to communicate effectively with both Arabic-speaking and English-speaking customers.

Media: Language Used in News and Entertainment

The media in Bahrain is predominantly Arabic, with several newspapers, television channels, and radio stations broadcasting in the language. However, there are also several English-language newspapers and websites available. In terms of entertainment, most movies and television shows are in English or Arabic, with subtitles available in either language.

Sign Language: Bahraini Sign Language

Bahraini Sign Language is the sign language used by the deaf community in Bahrain. It has its own unique vocabulary and grammar and is recognized as an official language by the government. There are several schools and organizations that teach Bahraini Sign Language to those who are interested.

Language Policy: The Government’s Approach

The government of Bahrain has implemented several policies to promote the use of Arabic and preserve the country’s linguistic heritage. These include requiring that all official documents be written in Arabic, promoting Arabic medium education, and encouraging the use of Arabic in the media. However, the government also recognizes the importance of English in the global economy and has taken steps to promote the teaching and use of the language.

Conclusion: The Multilingual Identity of Bahrain

Bahrain’s linguistic landscape is diverse and complex, with many languages and dialects spoken by its people. While Arabic is the official language, English is also widely spoken and is considered the lingua franca of the country. Additionally, there are several minority languages spoken by smaller groups of people, including Farsi, Urdu, and Malayalam. Overall, Bahrain’s multilingual identity is a reflection of its rich cultural heritage and diverse population.

References: Books, Articles, and Websites

"Languages of Bahrain." Ethnologue, www.ethnologue.com/country/BH/languages.
AlBalooshi, M. "Language Policy and Planning in Bahrain: A Critical Analysis." International Journal of Language and Linguistics, vol. 3, no. 2, 2016, pp. 1-6.